Following Superman becoming the first film in the new DC Universe under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Studio to hit the big screen last year, Supergirl steps up as the next film set to shape the DCU moving forward. Superman garnered solid reviews last year and became the tenth highest-grossing film of 2025 with a global take of $618.7 million but the Man of Steel is a more proven big screen presence while Kara Zor-El/Supergirl (Milly Alcock) leading her own big screen project is more of a gamble. With a reported $170 million budget, Supergirl will be a major test for the new DCU but a big vote of confidence came when it was announced that the social media reaction embarbo was going to be lifted earlier than anticipated. It was previously announced that social reactions wouldn’t be unveiled until Monday, June 22, but that was moved up to today, which means that Wartner Bros. and DC Studios could be very confident in the finished product. Does Supergirl continue the winning streak that began with last year’s Superman? Let’s find out!
What Are The First Reactions Saying?
The initial reactions indicate why the studio was confident about lifting the social media embargo early. Many of the reactions dig the simpler but sharper storytelling & execution of the film, while Alcock is receiving high praise for her portrayal of the titular character as she showcases the messiness, vulnerability, and ultimately the strength of a heroine on her own specific journey. Craig Gillespie’s direction has been called vibrant and energetic by some, while the film itself strikes a balance between an emotional journey for the character and the heart-pounding action you’d expect from a summer blockbuster. There are some mixed reactions from some who expected a little more, especially with prior knownledge of the comic book, and there are some mentions that the villain falls a bit short. Also, Jason Momoa’s Lobo appears to be a highlight, making you wish there was more of him in the film. That being said, reactions feel mostly postive ahead of release. You can check out some of the first social reactions below!
What Is Supergirl About?
A feature film about Supergirl went into development as a part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) in 2018, and she was first introduced as a part of that universe in 2023’s The Flash, portrayed by Sasha Calle. Things took a major shift when Gunn and Safran were announced as co-CEOs of DC Studios in 2022, and a new film, intended to have a new Supergirl, was announced in 2023, with Alcock ultimately being cast in 2024. She would go on to make her first appearance as the character during the closing moments of Superman.
Supergirl, directed by Craig Cillespie and from a screenplay by Ana Nogueira, adapts the comic book miniseries Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King and Bilquis Evely and is a part of the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. In the film, as Kara Zor-El (Alcock) celebrates her 23rd birthday without a care in the world with her dog Krypto across the galaxy, a tragic event sends her on a “murderous quest for revenge” that will ultimately turn her into the heroine she didn’t know she was capable of becoming. The movie also stars Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, David Corenswet, and Jason Momoa.
Supergirl hits screens nationwide on June 26.
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