After decades of waiting, the Girl of Steel is finally soaring back onto the big screen with a bold, emotional twist that promises to redefine one of DC’s most beloved heroines. Following Superman’s triumphant return in James Gunn’s ‘Superman’, ‘Supergirl‘ will spotlight Kara Zor-El’s story in a way that’s grittier, darker, and far closer to her comic book roots.
With ‘House of the Dragon’ star Milly Alcock in the role and Craig Gillespie directing, the upcoming film is already shaping up to be one of 2026’s most anticipated superhero releases. Moreover, if early reports are to be believed, the movie might be farther along in production than fans think.
Ana Nogueira’s Vision For Kara Zor-El Is Very Different And Dark
For writer Ana Nogueira, who wrote the Supergirl screenplay, crafting a fresh take on the character meant letting go of the traditional image of Kara as Superman’s sunny, smiling cousin. In an interview with Variety, the former actress-turned-writer explained her creative process. She revealed that she struggled to connect with the “bright and hopeful” version of Supergirl that has dominated much of her past portrayals. “She watched Krypton completely be destroyed,” Nogueira said.
Related: Supergirl’s First DCU Appearance In ‘Superman’ Might Have Been The Film’s Darkest Moment
“I was always like, ‘I can’t get my head around the version of the character that is so sunny.’” Instead, Nogueira drew inspiration from Tom King’s ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’, a highly acclaimed eight-issue comic series that reimagines Kara as a more layered, conflicted hero. In that story, the Girl of Steel grapples with survivor’s guilt, loneliness, and a fierce desire to find purpose beyond her cousin’s shadow. The result is a character who’s still heroic but also deeply human.
“When I read [King’s book], I was like, ‘There she is,’” Nogueira shared. “It was rougher and grittier and edgier and funnier. That’s the Supergirl that made sense to me.” It’s a vision that aligns perfectly with James Gunn’s new era for DC Studios. Under his leadership, the DCU’s “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters” slate aims to mix grand mythic storytelling with raw emotion and character-driven arcs. While Superman embodies hope and idealism, Supergirl’s story is expected to explore trauma, survival, and rediscovering compassion in a harsh universe.
‘Supergirl’ Might Be Closer Than We Think
If fans were expecting to wait long for updates on ‘Supergirl’, they have some good news. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film recently held a quiet, private screening for DC Studios executives and James Gunn’s trusted circle in Burbank, California. The news surprised many, as it was widely believed the movie was still in full production. This secret screening is a strong sign that the project is farther along than previously assumed.
In case you missed it: James Gunn Claims Supergirl Being “A Total Mess” In ‘Superman’ Was The Point
So the project might also be eyeing an earlier release than its slated June 26, 2026 date. While nothing has been confirmed, early test screenings often indicate that a studio is confident in the film’s quality. And with Gunn personally overseeing the DCU’s creative direction, fans can expect a tightly connected narrative that ties into Superman and beyond. The excitement surrounding ‘Supergirl’ is also amplified by the sheer enthusiasm for the DCU’s fresh start.
Gunn’s ‘Superman’ revitalized faith in the brand with its balance of humor, heart, and heroism, and Alcock’s cameo nearly stole the show. Her version of Kara Zor-El, confident yet chaotic, hints at a character arc that’s equal parts redemption and rebellion. In addition to Alcock and Corenswet, Supergirl will introduce several characters from Tom King’s comic run, including Ruthye Marye Knoll and Krem of the Yellow Hills. Meanwhile, Jason Momoa, who previously starred as Aquaman in the DCEU, is set to join the DCU as Lobo, rumored to make his debut in ‘Supergirl’.
