Review criticises Supergirl’s sombre tone, dialogue and revenge-driven storyline

DC Studios’ latest superhero film, Supergirl, has received a sharply critical review, with its lead character described as lacking the energy and charisma expected from one of the comic book world’s most recognisable heroes.

The review centres on Milly Alcock’s portrayal of Kara Zor-El, better known as Supergirl, arguing that the character’s sombre and reluctant attitude makes it difficult for audiences to connect with her throughout the film.

According to the critic, DC Studios film presents a version of Supergirl who appears emotionally detached and unwilling to embrace her role as a hero. While the concept of exploring a younger and more disillusioned member of Superman’s family is acknowledged as an interesting idea, the review argues that the execution ultimately leaves the story feeling flat.

The film follows Kara as she embarks on a revenge-driven journey across space.

Still struggling with the destruction of her home planet, Krypton, and the loss of her parents, Supergirl is portrayed as carrying emotional scars that shape her outlook on life. Raised on a surviving fragment of Krypton before eventually arriving on Earth, she remains burdened by grief and resentment.

The story gains momentum when an orphaned teenager seeks revenge against a group of space raiders responsible for killing her family.

Supergirl agrees to help, but the review suggests her motivation is largely personal after the group’s leader, Krem, injures her dog using a Kryptonite dart while carrying the antidote around his neck.

Matthias Schoenaerts plays Krem, whom the review describes as one of the few memorable characters in the film.

His portrayal of the villain is singled out as providing some entertainment, with the character’s personality standing out amid what the reviewer considers an otherwise lifeless cast.

David Corenswet briefly reprises his role as Superman, making several appearances during the film.

His optimistic outlook is described as offering moments of relief from the darker tone that dominates much of Supergirl’s story.

Jason Momoa also joins the cast as the bounty hunter Lobo, a popular character among DC fans.

However, the review argues that his appearance feels limited and fails to add significant depth to the overall narrative.

Director Craig Gillespie receives some praise for staging several visually impressive computer-generated action sequences.

The review also highlights flashback scenes exploring Krypton and Earth as providing welcome variety during the film.

Despite those moments, the overall assessment remains largely negative.

The critic argues that much of the film becomes repetitive, comparing sections of the story to familiar elements seen in other science-fiction franchises.

The dialogue is also criticised, with conversations between several characters described as lacking humour, emotional impact and momentum.

Much of the criticism focuses on the film’s overall tone.

Rather than delivering an uplifting superhero adventure, the review suggests the story leans heavily into melancholy, making its central character difficult to root for.

The reviewer questions whether audiences will remain invested in a hero who appears reluctant to embrace her own mission.

Supergirl serves as a follow-up of sorts to last year’s Superman film, expanding DC Studios’ evolving cinematic universe with another iconic character from the comic books.

The film stars Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El alongside Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Corenswet and Jason Momoa.

While the review acknowledges several strong visual moments and isolated performances, it concludes that the film struggles to balance its darker themes with the sense of excitement traditionally associated with superhero adventures.

Supergirl is scheduled for release in cinemas on 25 June.