With “Supergirl,” James Gunn’s new DC Universe opens another chapter this week. While the “Superman” reboot has been showered with praise, Kara Zor-El faces a tougher reception: early reviews portray a decidedly mixed picture.
After James Gunn laid a celebrated cornerstone for his new DCU last year with “Superman,” the first big test now follows. With “Supergirl,” Warner Bros. sends the Steel Man’s cousin on an intergalactic odyssey based on the acclaimed comic saga “Woman of Tomorrow” by Tom King. However, those expecting a classic, polished origin story are in for a surprise.
The film takes a surprisingly gritty direction, narrowly avoiding the dreaded “rotten” status on Rotten Tomatoes with a current score of 61 percent. The mixed reactions stem from debates over the unconventional style: some praise it, while others argue it sacrifices the essence of the comic for cheap action clichés.
John Wick Factor: A Heroine with Edge and a Super-Dog
The film’s standout feature, nearly all critics agree, is lead actress Milly Alcock (“House of the Dragon”). Her portrayal of Kara Zor-El isn’t of a shining hero but rather a traumatized young woman struggling with frustration and alcohol.
The narrative kicks into gear when the ruthless villain Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts) severely injures her loyal companion Krypto and wipes out the alien girl Ruthye’s family, initiating a relentless chase across the galaxy.
This premise serves to generate significant momentum, as noted by Next Best Picture: “Alcock brings a wonderfully gritty attitude that perfectly suits the film’s dirty, industrial punk-rock aesthetic. This was a brilliant casting decision.”
The AU Review draws parallels to well-known action franchises, praising the film’s self-contained approach within the new cinematic universe: “The film captures the energy of James Gunn’s Superman but succeeds in establishing a completely unique identity. Surprisingly dark themes, intense Mad Max vibes, and motivations reminiscent of John Wick propel the story forward.”
Overall, the working blend of emotional depth and gritty sci-fi is lauded. Den of Geek describes it as a “straightforward, heartfelt adventure with a lot of soul, especially when we see Kara through the eyes of young Ruthye. Milly Alcock completely owns this role and will forever change our concept of Supergirl.”
Missing the Mark? Comic Purists Express Disappointment
However, with a critic score of 61 percent, there are substantial shadows. The most potent criticism seems directed at director Craig Gillespie (“Cruella”) from those who cherish the source material.
The criticism? The original comic was a slow, almost philosophical, poetic narrative. Detractors argue that the film presses too hard on the gas, striving to replicate the winning formula of “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
TechRadar particularly goes hard on Gillespie, claiming the film completely destroys the “soul of the original” in favor of a familiar Marvel template over the DC adventure.
Additionally, Variety does not hold back in its scathing review, describing the film as a tonal regression, at times resembling a “dry, colorless, and sluggish chunk” painfully reminiscent of the weaker, darker moments from the old DCEU.
Critics also agree that the film loses narrative steam after the halfway point. IGN criticizes the pacing and the lack of character development for the protagonist: “The film drags at times, almost like a tough piece of chewing gum. As Kara remains largely a frustrated, alcoholic anti-hero throughout the runtime, she undergoes very little emotional development.”
Moreover, the actual antagonist Krem fades into the background compared to the powerful performances of Alcock and Jason Momoa, who plays the intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo, diminishing the tension of the final act.
In summary, anyone expecting a profound and accurate adaptation of the comic may leave disappointed. However, those in search of a visually striking space western with practical effects, a rocking soundtrack, and a fantastic lead actress should make up their own minds.
“Supergirl” hits theaters tomorrow, June 25, 2026.
