In the unfolding chapters of the DC Universe, the character of Supergirl is set to take on a new and resonant identity, portrayed by the talented Milly Alcock. According to DC Studios’ James Gunn, this iteration of Kara Zor-El will stand apart from any past interpretations. Instead of merely being depicted as Superman’s upbeat cousin, Alcock’s Supergirl will navigate her own battles, primarily in the distant reaches of space, imbuing the character with a depth and complexity rarely explored before.
In a recent interview with ComicBook, Gunn addressed the substantial differences between the DCU’s Supergirl and previous live-action versions of the character. His insights reveal that Kara’s traumatic experiences, shaped by the destruction of Krypton, contribute to her character being “kind of a mess†compared to her more well-adjusted cousin, Clark Kent. While flashbacks to Krypton remain a possibility, the core narrative will delve into how the cataclysmic events on their home planet have indelibly influenced Kara’s psyche.
“I mean, he had parents who loved him in an easy-going upbringing, and it makes him the least dysfunctional of superheroes in so many ways. And Supergirl, especially the DCU Supergirl, she’s had real issues growing up,†Gunn noted.
Redefining Supergirl’s Origins Through Compelling Source Material
The upcoming film draws inspiration from Tom King’s acclaimed comic, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. This narrative portrays a Kara Zor-El who has endured a series of harrowing experiences, far darker than those of her superhero counterpart. The comic unfolds a tale where Supergirl witnesses the destruction of Krypton firsthand, intertwined with her early survival struggles. This background fortifies Kara’s emotional armor, enabling her to emerge as a stark contrast to Superman’s more optimistic outlook.
Milly Alcock’s Supergirl is positioned not just as a character shadowed by Superman but as one who develops her own distinct personality, worldview, and supporting cast. Her story arc will reflect a relentless drive shaped by her unique experiences and upbringing, marking her contribution to the franchise as genuinely innovative. This transformation grants the DCU’s Supergirl an opportunity to explore uncharted territory and deliver a fresh narrative that resonates with diverse audiences.
Breaking the Mold: A New Direction for Supergirl
What sets Alcock’s portrayal apart from previous ones is the departure from being just a secondary character tied to Superman’s legacy. Historical portrayals, from Helen Slater’s 1984 Supergirl film to Melissa Benoist’s portrayal in the Arrowverse, consistently pivot around her connections to Superman. Even Sasha Calle’s involvement as Supergirl in the DCEU’s The Flash kept her linked to the Man of Steel, albeit within an alternate timeline. However, the DCU’s Supergirl seeks to break this cycle, focusing on Kara Zor-El’s personal growth and her forging identity.
Gunn’s decision to adapt King’s Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow not only elevates the source material but also sets the stage for a cinematic journey that’s rich in both visual spectacle and profound character exploration. As director Craig Gillespie crafts this new narrative, the essence of Supergirl stands to become a pivotal part of the DC Universe, bringing forth a strong narrative foundation for her adventures ahead.
With a release date set for June 26, 2026, anticipation continues to mount, promising to unveil a Supergirl that resonates with modern audiences and reinvigorates a beloved character for generations to come.
Source: ComicBook