Supergirl introduces Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El in her first standalone DC film, blending emotional storytelling with visually striking action. While strong performances and impressive visuals keep the film engaging, an inconsistent screenplay and uneven pacing prevent it from becoming the powerful superhero adventure many fans were hoping for.
Supergirl Review: Milly Alcock Delivers A Strong Performance In An Uneven DC Adventure
After making her debut in Superman (2025), Milly Alcock returns as Kara Zor-El in Supergirl, one of the most anticipated films in James Gunn’s new DC Universe. Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, the film attempts to balance emotional storytelling with large-scale superhero action. While it succeeds in showcasing Supergirl as a layered and compassionate hero, the overall narrative struggles to maintain momentum, making the experience a mixed but watchable one.
A Fresh Story For Kara Zor-El
Unlike Superman’s hopeful journey, Supergirl focuses on Kara Zor-El’s emotional scars and personal growth. The story follows Kara as she spends her days travelling across planets with her loyal companion, Krypto.
Her peaceful journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ruthye, a young girl determined to avenge the murder of her family by the ruthless warlord Krem of the Yellow Hills. Initially reluctant to get involved, Kara changes her mind after Krem’s men attack Krypto, forcing her into a dangerous mission that soon becomes about much more than revenge.
The film gradually evolves into a story about healing, responsibility, friendship, and choosing hope despite overwhelming loss.
Milly Alcock Brings Heart And Strength To Supergirl
The biggest strength of Supergirl is undoubtedly Milly Alcock.
She portrays Kara as vulnerable yet fearless, balancing emotional depth with superhero confidence. Unlike many traditional comic-book heroes, Kara feels human despite possessing extraordinary powers. Alcock captures every emotion naturally, making audiences care about her journey from beginning to end.
Her chemistry with Eve Ridley, who plays Ruthye, adds warmth to the story. Their relationship develops organically and provides many of the film’s most heartfelt moments.
Action Sequences Deliver Big-Screen Entertainment
Craig Gillespie ensures the film looks spectacular whenever the action begins.
The aerial battles, cosmic landscapes, and large-scale fight sequences are visually impressive and packed with energy. The CGI is largely polished, while Krypto once again proves to be one of the film’s biggest crowd-pleasers.
Several combat sequences are choreographed beautifully, making full use of Supergirl’s powers without becoming repetitive.
Fans looking for exciting superhero action will certainly find enough moments to enjoy.
Where The Film Loses Momentum
Despite its strong performances, Supergirl struggles with pacing.
The first act takes too long to establish the story, while the final act rushes through important emotional developments. Some supporting characters receive very little screen time, making it difficult to fully invest in their arcs.
The screenplay also introduces several interesting ideas but doesn’t explore them deeply enough. At times, the film shifts abruptly between emotional drama and large-scale action, preventing both elements from reaching their full potential.
As a result, the climax lacks the emotional impact it appears to be building towards.
Supporting Cast Makes A Solid Impression
Eve Ridley delivers a convincing performance as Ruthye, giving the emotional storyline genuine weight.
Matthias Schoenaerts plays Krem as a threatening antagonist, although the character feels somewhat underdeveloped compared to previous DC villains.
Jason Momoa’s appearance generates excitement for longtime DC fans, though his role remains relatively limited. Even so, his screen presence adds additional intrigue to the expanding DC Universe.
Visual Effects And World-Building
One of the film’s strongest technical achievements is its world-building.
From colourful alien planets to beautifully designed spacecraft and immersive action environments, the production design creates a visually rich science-fiction universe. The cinematography complements the emotional tone while the musical score enhances both quieter character moments and explosive action scenes.
Although not every visual effect is flawless, the overall presentation feels cinematic and ambitious.
Can Supergirl Strengthen DC’s New Era?
Supergirl serves as another important chapter in James Gunn’s evolving DC Universe.
While it may not completely redefine superhero cinema, it successfully introduces Kara Zor-El as a compelling lead capable of carrying future films. The movie lays the foundation for larger stories while establishing emotional connections that could become even stronger in upcoming installments.
Fans invested in DC’s new direction will likely appreciate the groundwork being laid here.
Final Verdict
Supergirl may not soar as high as its strongest moments suggest, but it remains an entertaining superhero film anchored by Milly Alcock’s confident performance. Strong visuals, engaging action, emotional themes, and impressive production values help overcome an uneven screenplay and inconsistent pacing.
It isn’t the flawless standalone adventure many hoped for, but it successfully establishes Kara Zor-El as one of the most promising heroes in DC’s new cinematic universe. Fans of superhero films and DC’s rebooted franchise will still find plenty to enjoy on the big screen.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Supergirl connected to Superman (2025)?
Yes. The film continues Kara Zor-El’s journey after her introduction in Superman (2025) and expands James Gunn’s new DC Universe.
Who plays Supergirl in the movie?
Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El, marking her first standalone film as Supergirl.
Is Jason Momoa in Supergirl?
Yes. Jason Momoa appears in the film, although his role is relatively limited compared to Milly Alcock’s lead performance.
Is Supergirl worth watching in theatres?
If you enjoy superhero action, impressive visuals, and character-driven stories, Supergirl offers an entertaining theatrical experience despite its pacing issues.
What is the biggest strength of Supergirl?
Milly Alcock’s performance, emotionally driven storytelling, and visually spectacular action sequences are the film’s standout elements.
