The challenge of creating compelling narratives around an all-powerful character like Supergirl is a familiar one, often leading to cliched solutions that strain audience credibility. These include artificially imposing problems on the character to create a sense of vulnerability or isolation, or undermining her abilities to manufacture tension.
One unconventional take on this issue can be found in the early-2000s webcomic “minus,” which humorously challenges the conventional narrative tropes that plague such stories. Instead of dwelling on the difficulties of possessing extraordinary powers, “minus” satirizes the common themes writers rely on to drive their plots.
In the case of Supergirl, the film struggles to offer a fresh perspective on the perennial dilemma faced by Superman’s writers. The narrative kicks off with Supergirl, portrayed by Milly Alcock, embarking on a self-destructive cosmic journey akin to a younger, more reckless version of Hancock. Her alienation from humanity drives her to distance herself physically and emotionally, seeking solace away from her superhuman abilities and the responsibilities they entail.
The story unfolds as Supergirl reluctantly takes on the role of protector for Ruthye (played by Eve Ridley), a mortal warrior seeking vengeance with a precious sword in hand. Their quest pits them against the generic antagonist Krem (portrayed by Matthias Schoenaerts), whose villainy lacks depth beyond superficial traits like facial adornments and a penchant for cruelty.
As the plot unfolds, Supergirl’s journey with Ruthye echoes familiar themes from classic films like “Logan” and “Terminator 2,” culminating in a realization about the importance of human connection over isolation. While the film boasts impressive world-building and engaging performances, particularly from Alcock and Ridley, it falters in its storytelling and direction, resulting in a lackluster and uninspired viewing experience.
Penned by first-time screenwriter Ana Nogueira and helmed by director Craig Gillespie, “Supergirl” fails to establish a coherent narrative foundation or meaningful character development. The film struggles to explore Supergirl’s internal conflicts and motivations, resorting to action-packed sequences devoid of emotional resonance or narrative depth.
Overall, “Supergirl” falls short in delivering a captivating and original take on the superhero genre, relying on tired tropes and lackluster execution that render it more tedious than truly terrible.