Supergirl review – sprightly and sparkling superhero yarn without the usual baffling DC backstory
Milly Alcock leads a cast that includes Matthias Schoenaerts and Jason Momoa in a film that sidesteps the franchise’s notorious backstory baggage.
The Guardian published a review of the film Supergirl on 24 June 2026, offering a detailed assessment of the standalone feature that follows a previous reboot of the Superman franchise. The critique centres on lead actor Milly Alcock, who portrays Kara Zor-El, and co-star Eve Ridley, who plays the alien teen Ruthye Marye Knoll. The review describes the film as a "sprightly and sparkling superhero yarn" that deliberately avoids the complex and often criticised backstory associated with the DC Extended Universe.
The narrative follows the protagonists as they fight an intergalactic human trafficker named Krem of the Yellow Hills, portrayed by Matthias Schoenaerts. The antagonist is described as an odious pirate who kidnaps women for breeding stock purposes. Supergirl is motivated to pursue Krem not only for justice but also because he has taken her dog, Krypto, though the review notes the canine character does not yet wear a cape.
Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl is depicted as suffering from "torpid ennui," with the character often waking up late and hungover. The review highlights a distinct departure from traditional superhero aesthetics, noting that Supergirl’s flight style is vertical rather than the classic horizontal pose. Furthermore, the film does not require the character to model a figure-hugging costume for the male gaze, marking a shift in visual storytelling for the genre.
The film features several notable cameo appearances, including Jason Momoa as the bounty hunter Lobo and David Corenswet as Superman. The review identifies a specific "feminist moment" where Ruthye instructs Lobo on how to escape prison. A flashback sequence also depicts Supergirl’s Krypton childhood, with Alura In-Ze and Zor-El played by Emily Beecham and David Krumholtz respectively.
While the review acknowledges that Supergirl is not a perfect movie, it praises the film for telling a clear story without getting bogged down in the tangled subsidiary material that has characterised previous entries in the franchise. The critique concludes that there are moments when the franchise appears capable of flying, offering a refreshing alternative to the baffling lore that has often defined the DC Extended Universe.