Supergirl: A Visually Empty Entry in the DC Universe

James Gunn continues his expanding DC Universe, following up last year’s ‘Superman‘ with an extension of the Kryptonian family with director Craig Gillespie’s Supergirl. Briefly introduced in Superman, Milly Alcock returns as Kara Zor-El / Supergirl in an adaptation of the comic book miniseries Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. This adaptation follows Kara as she celebrates her 23rd birthday across the galaxy, as she contemplates her purpose. She quests with young Ruthye Marye Knoll (Ridley) to help her seek revenge on Krem of the Yellow Hills (Matthias Schoenaerts), who murdered her entire family.

Gillespie’s familiarity with utilizing color within the world-building can be seen throughout his efforts in ‘Cruella,’ providing curiosity that he could possibly deliver an intriguing take on the comic book miniseries. While admittedly unacquainted with the source material myself, any wandering mind can breeze through the pages of the book and notice the vast difference, as it showcases various hues and shades compared to the film’s lifeless color schemes, where even the notable red and blue suit is laid to the wayside for much of the film. The uninspired color grading and a production design filled with muted colors provide little appeal and differentiation to the set pieces, additionally exposing the discernible visual effects that muddle the viewing experience on the big screen.

Supergirl is noticeably minimized in its connection to the larger DC Universe, allowing the story arc to mostly stand on its own merits. However, the inclusion of Superman (Corenswet) serves as an amiable companion that helps her acclimate to this new world and occasionally mentor her towards finding her purpose. Corenswet’s involvement in the film reaffirms his merit in the Superman role, demonstrating the kindness, compassion, and morality you would expect from a defining pop culture figure. Trading Aquaman for Lobo, Jason Momoa’s version of this antihero encompasses all of Momoa’s usual chaotic charm that you would expect from a cigar-smoking, immortal bounty hunter from space. While indistinguishable between his various DC roles, Momoa seems much more comfortable in a new look that we surely will expect more of throughout this comprehensive universe.

While Corenswet’s Superman is used attentively, Momoa’s Lobo often serves as a distraction and hindrance to Kara’s journey. The latter’s addition surely acts as mischievous fun for audiences to enjoy, regularly to the detriment of Kara’s character development. Unfortunately, Supergirl is frequently weakened during the film, in many cases relying on external forces to aid her in going back to full strength. In moments when she isn’t impaired, it is repeatedly used to save Ruthye, who consistently finds herself in perilous situations due to her lack of fighting and survival skills. The combination of such disruptive circumstances impedes this solo outing for this iconic superheroine, scaling back her powerful Kryptonian nature.

Even with some constraints, the film’s redeeming attributes lie in Alcock’s effortless charisma and tenacity that made her a breakout star in ‘House of the Dragon.’ She expresses all of Kara’s drunken antics with seamless fun, emphasizing the amusement behind conventional conflicts. Additionally, Alcock effectively conveys the daringness of Supergirl even in predicaments where her powers are restricted by the lack of a yellow sun. It undoubtedly won’t be hard for audiences to embrace her portrayal, and find optimism in her place in the DC Universe.

Overall, Craig Gillespie’s Supergirl is an unfortunate downgrade from last year’s promising start to James Gunn’s new DC Universe. Frankly a derivative adaptation of the colorfully beautiful comic book miniseries, Gillespie’s lack of vibrant colors in the production design and visual effects diminish the viewing experience regardless of familiarity with the source material. Despite DC figures like Lobo and Superman hampering Kara’s character progress, Alcock still delivers a charismatic and daring portrayal of this iconic superheroine that offers confidence in her future in this overarching universe.

still courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

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Costa Christoulas

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