Supergirl (2026) Review: Milly Alcock Soars in a Gritty, High-Octane Space Western

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 Stars)

If you are searching for a squeaky-clean Kryptonian dedicated solely to saving cats from trees, you are undoubtedly going to be disappointed. Craig Gillespie's Supergirl has just burst onto screens, and it is nothing short of an absolute blast. This film is loud, unapologetically rebellious, and above all else, good fun. It challenges the conventions of the superhero genre and breathes new life into the character of Supergirl, presenting her in a way that is both refreshing and exhilarating.

By directly adapting the critically acclaimed comic run Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King and Bilquis Evely, the new DC Universe has finally delivered a live-action portrayal of Kara Zor-El that feels entirely distinct from her more famous cousin, Superman. This adaptation takes bold strides in redefining what it means to be a hero, particularly a female hero in a traditionally male-dominated genre, and it does so with flair and audacity.

Supergirl (Kara Zor-El) is twenty-three - we meet her as she is celebrating her birthday. Given she is twenty three, why is she called a "Supergirl" instead of a "Superwoman"? It's primarily due to history. She was originally introduced in 1959 as a teenage counterpart to Superman. The name also avoids confusion with "Superwoman," a completely separate mantle in DC Comics that has historically been used by villains or alternate-universe characters. In the original comics she was Superman's younger cousin who arrived on Earth as a teenager, making the title appropriate just as Clark Kent went by "Superboy" in his youth. I've seen some debate on line that implies that "girl" can feel infantilizing for an adult character. DC decided to keep the iconic moniker to honour its comic book roots and maintain her distinct, recognizable brand identity. There is a brief discussion between Kara and Ruthye on this topic but the conversation is allowed to just fade away without resolution.

Milly Alcock is the undisputed anchor of this film, and her casting is genuinely inspired, showcasing her remarkable range as an actress. Instead of a typical perky hero in a cape, Alcock gives us a jaded, traumatized punk who carries the weight of her past, including the haunting memories of watching Krypton die in flames. She brings a brilliant, biting snark to the role, effectively balancing the character's heavy, lingering grief with a cynical edge that resonates deeply. Alcock's performance transcends the limitations of a standard superhero narrative; she isn't just Superman's sidekick; she is a battle-hardened survivor, navigating the complexities of loss and vengeance. Alcock's ability to convey vulnerability while maintaining a fierce exterior allows her to beautifully navigate the intricate emotional dance that defines Kara's journey.

The film completely ditches the gleaming skyscrapers of Metropolis on Earth and instead immerses viewers in the dirty, lawless edges of the galaxy. It operates as a high-octane space western, a genre mash-up that feels both familiar and new. With Matthias Schoenaerts delivering a chilling performance as the ruthless Krem of the Yellow Hills and Jason Momoa crashing the party as the interstellar biker Lobo, the movie often feels like a galactic Fury Road.

The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty landscapes and chaotic action sequences that define this universe. It’s a dusty, blood-pumping ride full of space pirates, bizarre planets, and practical alien effects that make the universe feel dangerous and lived-in.

Supergirl is exactly the kind of jolt the superhero genre needs right now. It balances its dark, snarky streak with genuine heart and stunning visuals that captivate the audience from start to finish. While the pacing occasionally stumbles during the second act's planet-hopping sequences, the sheer momentum of Kara's quest alongside her young companion Ruthye keeps you hooked, creating a dynamic interplay that adds depth to the story. The film's ability to blend humour with high-stakes drama is commendable, allowing for moments of levity amidst the chaos. It is a gritty, gorgeous, and wildly entertaining time at the movies, one that leaves viewers eager for more adventures in this reimagined universe.