With the DC Universe gradually forming, it is becoming apparent that this franchise does not intend to merely replicate what the fans already know. The upcoming ‘Supergirl’ film is an ideal illustration of this, with small yet significant alterations to retell a well-known narrative.
And in the process, provide Kara Zor-El with a more emotionally-driven origin. Instead of relying too much on comic-book beats, the DCU seems to be interested in character-first storytelling. A recently unveiled scene in ‘Supergirl’ demonstrates how that strategy can really pay off hugely.
The DCU Is Letting ‘Supergirl’ Build Her Story From The Ground Up
In a new ‘Supergirl’ teaser, viewers are given a preview of what appears to be the first meeting of Kara with Krypto. The DCU version, in contrast to the Woman of Tomorrow comic, in which they already have a relationship, introduces Kara as someone who does not know the small, energetic dog when he first runs into her. That transformation may appear to be minor, yet it is a strong one.
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The film provides emotional context by allowing the audience to see the start of their relationship, which the comic did not have to explicitly state. It makes Kara a human being, and not merely a survivor of Krypton. It makes her a person who is still establishing relationships in a new universe.
More importantly, making the introduction of Krypto more directly linked to Kara’s early life would help to establish Krypton’s annihilation as a collective trauma instead of a back story. Their relationship turns symbolic: two survivors meeting in the state of complete loss. It is a subtle shift, but one that makes Kara’s story feel more intimate and accessible.
Krypto Might Be DCU’s Secret Weapon
Krypto’s role in the DCU is not a coincidence. Having appearances related to both Superman and Supergirl, the super-powered dog can become one of the strongest connective threads of the franchise.
The DCU covertly establishes unity between the initial chapters of the book by strengthening the bond between Kara and Krypto. What starts with Superman can naturally lead to Supergirl.
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It is also refreshing that warmth and companionship are given a leading role in a superhero origin story. Although the DCU will certainly be a spectacle, scenes like Kara meeting Krypto are a reminder to the audience that these characters are not just defined by their power, but by things they care about.
If done properly, Supergirl will not only bring another Kryptonian hero to the table, but it will also assist in building the emotional core of the DC Universe.
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