Supergirl

Craig Gillespie’s Supergirl aims to soar but often stumbles in its quest for emotional depth and narrative coherence. The film follows Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock) as she reluctantly allies with an unexpected companion to confront a formidable new foe, embarking on a visually dazzling interstellar adventure. However, while the action sequences pulse with kinetic energy, the film struggles to balance its ambitious sci-fi spectacle with the tender character moments that might have grounded its heroine.

Alcock, fresh off her role in House of the Dragon, embodies a spirited Supergirl, capturing both her raw power and the vulnerability beneath her Kryptonian exterior. Yet, the script often sidelines her emotional journey in favor of grandiose battles and special effects that, while impressive, feel hollow without a solid narrative foundation. The supporting cast, including Matthias Schoenaerts and Jason Momoa, provides adequate performances, yet their characters often feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.

Visually, Gillespie’s direction does take cues from his work in Cruella, infusing the film with a vibrant aesthetic and a playful visual style. The cinematography dances across the cosmos, punctuated by moments of spectacular visual flair, but the frenetic editing at times undermines the film’s pacing, leaving viewers momentarily disoriented rather than exhilarated. There’s a sense that Supergirl wants to reach the heights of superhero storytelling but lacks the emotional resonance and narrative clarity of the best entries in the genre.

What works

• Milly Alcock’s performance is a highlight, showcasing vulnerability and strength.
• Stunning visual effects create a vibrant interstellar landscape.
• Action sequences are well-choreographed, providing moments of excitement.

Where it stumbles

• The script lacks depth, diluting emotional stakes.
• Supporting characters feel underdeveloped and one-dimensional.
• Pacing issues arise from inconsistent editing.

The Verdict

Supergirl is a visually striking adventure that ultimately struggles with depth and coherence, offering some thrills but not enough heart. It’s a decent watch for genre fans, but it could have soared higher.