REVIEW: 'Supergirl' Is a Fun Adventure With Incredible Milly Alcock And A Poor Script

Milly Alcock as Supergirl © Warner Bros

Supergirl is the latest film from the world of DC comics. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the movie has received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences so far. Its a flop in a box-office, making it certain the film won't turn a profit for the studio. But is it really as bad a film as many people think?

When James Gunn announced his plan for the DC Universe in 2023, Supergirl immediately caught my attention. A character who had previously starred in a TV series on The CW was set to make the big step to the big screen. First titled 'Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow', the project drew heavily from the comic book of the same name. After watching the film, it is clear that the title change was a good move, and the titular hero truly shines on screen.

The film centers on the titular character, played by Milly Alcock, who leads a chaotic, party-filled life in space, hopping from planet to planet in search of a good time. However, her path eventually crosses with Ruthye Marye Knoll (Eve Ridley), who seeks to avenge her family after bandits led by Krem of the Yellow Hills (Matthias Schoenaerts) kill her parents. Initially, Kara Zor-El (Supergirl) is reluctant to help her new companion; however, when her dog, Krypto, is attacked and left with only 3 days to live, she resolves to obtain the antidote held by Krem. The dynamic between Kara and Ruthye is peculiar. They cannot be described as friends, or even companions. They are simply individuals driven by a similar goal, with the distinction that Ruthye wants to kill the bandit, while Kara spends the entire film trying to dissuade her from that course of action. If the Ruthye’s character had been cut from the story, the production wouldn't have suffered much for it; indeed, as viewers, we might have been treated to more scenes that further developed Kara’s character.

Milly Alcock as Supergirl © Warner Bros

Milly Alcock clearly relishes the role of Supergirl. She inhabits the character flawlessly, experimenting with the performance and proving she was born for the part, validating James Gunn’s decision to cast her. She conveys emotions with remarkable precision, allowing the audience to bond with her from the very first minute. Eva Ridley also delivers a strong performance as Ruthye. She effectively portrays the grief and mourning following her family's death and holds her own as an associate of Kara’s; however, this isn't quite enough to forge the compelling duo the production truly needed.

Krem of the Yellow Hills (Matthias Schoenaerts) is a hollow, inconsequential bandit. He tries to be funny, but it doesn't work. When he appears on screen, switching from playing the clown to suddenly turning serious, the reaction he elicits is embarrassment rather than fear. Schoenaerts does his best, but the film doesn't seem like the right setting for this type of villain; there was immense potential here that ultimately went to waste.

Then there is Jason Momoa, who takes on the role of Lobo this time (he played Aquaman in the previous DC Universe). He makes a fun addition to the film, even if he doesn't contribute much to the plot. His jokes land well enough, though sometimes we wonders why he was introduced at all. Was it simply to fulfill fans wishes, or will a deeper purpose be revealed later? David Corenswet also makes a guest appearance, reprising his role as Superman. He shines on screen once again without overshadowing the protagonist. He plays a significant role in Kara's life, worrying about her, looking after her, and protecting her, while also trying to be a good friend to Kara, especially when she first arrives on Earth.

Jason Momoa as Lobo ©Warner Bros

The special effects are terrible at times, particularly during the scenes where Kara is flying. In one instance, Kara appears significantly larger than the other characters, which further undermines the atmosphere. The fight scenes, however, are incredible and visually impressive; the climactic battle involving Supergirl is particularly amazing and brilliantly executed.

A good question is: who approved this script? It is full of minuses, some scenes are unnecessary while others are missing, and the relationship between Kara and Ruthye, which should be important for the tone of the movie, falls flat and feels like a wasted opportunity. A film with immense potential suffers most from its poor screenplay.

Despite a few drawbacks, the movie is good and certainly didn't deserve such negative reviews. It is the story of Kara trying to save the most important being in her life: her dog, Krypto. We don't need massive, universe-threatening events. I can't wait for next year's 'Man of Tomorrow'. I hope we will get to see Supergirl in it, even if only for a moment.

Rating: 3/5