“Supergirl” (2026) takes the new DC Universe in a different direction and shifts the focus from Superman’s optimism to Kara Zor-El’s personal journey.
Director Craig Gillespie and writer Ana Nogueira adapt Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow into a space adventure that explores grief, revenge and identity while establishing Kara as a hero with her own story.
Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El and delivers a convincing portrayal of a heroine who struggles with the loss of Krypton. Kara witnessed her planet’s destruction, while David Corenswet’s Superman grew up on Earth.
Alcock balances Kara’s emotional pain with humor, determination and vulnerability. The performance allows Kara to stand apart from Superman instead of serving as his counterpart.
The story gains momentum after Kara meets Ruthye Marye Knoll, whom Eve Ridley portrays. Ridley creates a believable partnership with Alcock as the characters pursue Krem of the Yellow Hills.
Matthias Schoenaerts gives Krem a threatening presence that raises the stakes throughout the film. David Corenswet appears briefly as Superman, while Jason Momoa introduces Lobo without drawing attention away from Kara’s story.
Gillespie uses the film’s interstellar setting to combine expansive views of alien worlds with quieter scenes that highlight Kara’s emotional struggles. Cinematographer Rob Hardy captures the retro-futuristic style that reflects Tom King’s comic series.
The musical score supports the emotional moments and action sequences throughout the film. The second act slows at times as the story expands across multiple locations, but the characters keep the narrative engaging.
“Supergirl” places Kara’s personal journey at the center of the story instead of relying mainly on spectacle. Alcock anchors the film with a strong performance that establishes Kara Zor-El as a distinct hero in the new DC Universe. The film also expands the franchise while telling a complete and emotionally focused story.