Supergirl Soars Into a New Era: Movie Review – Collectors Confessions

Supergirl Soars Into a New Era

By Chad Farley

Editor’s note: For those living in small towns around the country that still have small-size movie theaters with one to four screens, if this movie is playing there, the cinematic experience might be worthwhile.  Especially when it comes with that special sense of community that small-size theaters provide.  Staten Islanders have a family-owned, independently operated movie theater right on Arthur Kill Road at the Atrium Cinema.  With 11 screens, and Supergirl playing there, the tickets they sell help them to provide upgrades and maintenance to the theater, and to keep being able to bring in those Hollywood movies that islanders enjoy.   Readers might be interested in our review of The Last Picture Show, where the filmmaker visits some of the last remaining independently-owned movie theaters in the Western United States.  Some are one-screen (this includes outdoor drive-in theaters with only one screen, along with two-, three-, and four-screen theaters, which often double as the party place in their small town.  

For the past few weeks, the biggest topic in the comic book world hasn’t been a new comic, it has been the release of Supergirl, the latest chapter in DC’s new cinematic universe.

Whenever a new superhero movie is released, expectations are sky-high. Fans want action, memorable characters, and something that feels fresh. Supergirl manages to check many of those boxes, even if it doesn’t quite reach classic status.

Let’s get one thing out of the way first: it’s much better than the 1984 Supergirl film. That movie has developed a nostalgic following over the years, but if we’re being honest, it wasn’t very good. The 2026 version is a major step forward for the character.

What surprised me most was that this isn’t your typical superhero movie.

Instead of focusing on saving a city from another world-ending threat, Supergirl feels much more like a science-fiction adventure. Based on the acclaimed comic series Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the film follows Kara Zor-El as she travels across space with the determined young warrior Ruthye Marye Knoll on a dangerous mission for justice. The result is a story that leans into the cosmic side of DC Comics, giving audiences something that feels different from the usual superhero formula.

Milly Alcock does an excellent job portraying a tougher, more battle-tested Supergirl than we’ve seen on screen before. Rather than simply being “Superman’s cousin,” this version stands on her own with a unique personality and emotional journey. Jason Momoa also makes an entertaining debut as the fan-favorite bounty hunter Lobo, bringing plenty of energy whenever he appears.

But if we’re talking about the true star of the movie, there’s only one answer.

Krypto.

Yes, Supergirl’s loyal super-powered dog steals nearly every scene he’s in. Whether he’s charging into danger, creating absolute chaos, or simply reminding everyone why dogs are the best sidekicks in comics, Krypto delivers some of the film’s biggest laughs and most memorable moments. Once again, DC proves that sometimes the character audiences connect with the most has four legs instead of two.

So, did we like the movie?

Absolutely.

Did we love it?

Not quite.

Would we recommend it?

Yes, but with one caveat. With movie ticket prices continuing to climb, this may be one worth waiting to watch at home when it arrives on streaming. It’s an enjoyable adventure that comic fans should experience, but it doesn’t necessarily demand the premium theater experience.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway is what Supergirl represents for DC Studios. Rather than simply repeating familiar superhero stories, the studio appears willing to explore different genres and tones. If future films continue to take creative risks like this one, comic fans could have plenty to look forward to.

And if Krypto keeps showing up?

We’ll definitely be watching.

 

Banner Image: Supergirl 2026 film poster.  Image Credit – DC Comics