Supergirl has been released to movie reporters, and James Gunn’s burgeoning DC Universe appears to be on track to release its second film. Initial reaction from the comic book world was to praise star Millie Alcock and the film for moving Gunn’s DC universe into Mad Max territory.
Journalist Simon Thompson wrote, “It’s not a classic, but it’s entertaining and hits most of its intended targets.” “Millie Alcock is great as the titular heroine, and Momoa’s Robo is great. Other big advantages are the film’s penchant for action, humor, and physicality.”
Germaine Lucier of Gizmodo and io9 called the film “a lot of fun” and said, “While it doesn’t sound like Superman, it serves as the perfect companion and follow-up to the movie, with better characters and more complex relationships. It’s also incredibly emotional, which makes the action even harder.”
Film journalist Mike Ryan said the film was “like a Mad Max movie, with its dirty world, terrible villains, and self-destructive heroes.”
“Supergirl” continues the DC Universe following last summer’s “Superman,” which introduced David Corenswet as the Man of Steel and launched Gunn’s franchise with solid reviews and a strong worldwide box office of $618 million. Millie Alcock stars in the title role.
The film’s logline reads, “When an unexpected and ruthless enemy strikes close to home, Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely ally and embarks on an epic interstellar journey of revenge and justice.”
“Supergirl” is based on Tom King’s comic book series “Supergirl: Women of Tomorrow” and directed by Craig Gillespie. The supporting cast includes Matthias Schoenaerts as the main villain, Klem of Yellow Hills. Eve Ridley plays Lucy Mary Knoll, a girl who scouts Supergirl to bring Clem to justice for the murder of her father. David Krumholtz and Emily Beecham play Supergirl’s parents. Jason Momoa plays an alien mercenary robot. Corren Sweat also appears as Superman.
In last month’s Variety cover story, Alcock opened up about his decision to take on the role of a superhero on screen. “I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, ‘Who am I to turn down this opportunity?’ I knew that’s what I had to do, because I was scared. And I thought, ‘Well, I’ve got one big, bad, beautiful life. Why not give it a shot?'” Just go for it! What, are you scared? Get over yourself. ”
Supergirl opens in theaters on July 26th. See more first reactions below.
