Supergirl Review: A Fresh Take in the DC Universe

Last year’s “Superman” concluded with Iggy Pop singing “Because I’m a punk rocker, yes I am,” serving as a contrasting note for a remarkably conventional hero. In contrast, Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El, known as Supergirl, embodies this punk-rock spirit more authentically in Craig Gillespie’s “Supergirl.” Portrayed by Milly Alcock, Kara opts for a Blondie T-shirt over a spandex suit and engages in a chaotic interstellar odyssey across the cosmos. Her character presents more of a Courtney Love personality than Clark Kent.

Displaying nonchalance and sarcasm, Kara moves unpredictably through the universe in her shabby spaceship, engaging in brawls in alien bars. Her refreshing, rebellious nature offers a sharp contrast to more uptight superheroes. Alcock excels in portraying this character. Unfortunately, the film “Supergirl” does not quite match her punk-rock energy with a similarly dynamic supporting cast and storyline. While the latest DC installment, under James Gunn’s guidance, has its enjoyable moments, it struggles to maintain Kara’s vibrant essence.

Skepticism surrounded “Supergirl” prior to its release, with many fans expressing concerns about its place in the DC Universe. However, Alcock’s lively cameo in “Superman” stood out as a highlight, making the transition to her own story, alongside her loyal dog Krypto, feel like a natural progression.

Set predominantly in space, “Supergirl” only briefly touches down on Earth. Its inventive production design, clever musical selections, and underdog narrative liken it to Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” series more than other DC films. The film’s universe is populated with cosmic debris, unfriendly characters, and adorable creatures.

Seth Rogen voices a tiny alien co-piloting a space bus, which adds creativity to the film’s portrayal of an intergalactic realm, complete with rest stops along space highways. Kara, celebrating her 23rd birthday in a drunken state, favors such settings even though it means her powers are diminished by the distance from a yellow sun. Despite her desire to stay off the superhero radar, Kara is reluctantly drawn into action.

Driven by a quest for revenge, young Ruthye Marye Knoll (played by Eve Ridley), whose family was killed by space pirates called the Brigands, seeks Kara’s help. Initially, Kara refuses to get involved until Brigand leader Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts) poisons Krypto, prompting her to pursue the antidote worn around Krem’s neck.

The story, inspired by the comic-book series “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” and scripted by Ana Nogueira, does not stand out for its originality but serves as a solid framework. Essentially, it takes on a Western vibe, with Kara assuming a John Wayne-like role akin to “True Grit.” The film’s arc guides Kara toward superhero maturity through flashbacks to Krypton, unveiling the roots of her suppressed pain.

However, some elements fall short of expectations. Ruthye’s intense focus on revenge clouds her appeal. Jason Momoa as bounty hunter Lobo, with his space motorcycle and rock band persona, overwhelms even a film featuring a flying dog. Schoenaerts offers a menacing grin accentuated by his bulging eyes, yet Krem’s bland personality pales next to his studded facial features.

The movie’s biker gang elements and the plot involving “brides” captive to the male Brigands evoke “Mad Max” associations. Still, “Supergirl” strives to carve new ground in superhero films. The inclusion of music by Modest Mouse and Jenny Lewis bolsters its unique spirit. Gillespie, renowned for “I, Tonya” and “Dumb Money,” effectively utilizes IMAX cameras, despite not fully mastering the material.

While Alcock works tirelessly to elevate “Supergirl,” she is ultimately hindered by surrounding elements — predominantly male characters. A misstep may have been sidelining Krypto from the story, reminiscent of John Wayne with his trusty horse.

“Supergirl,” released by Warner Bros., debuts in theaters this Friday with a PG-13 rating from the Motion Picture Association for sequences featuring violence, action, language, and smoking. The film runs for 107 minutes, earning two and a half stars out of four.