James Gunn is steering clear of the most infamous and unsettling moments from Supergirl’s past as he develops Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, decisions that highlight his commitment to avoiding problematic or controversial comic storylines in the upcoming film adaptation. The focus keyword, James Gunn avoiding controversial Supergirl comic storylines, reflects a move away from elements that have long troubled both fans and creators, ensuring a more thoughtful portrayal of the character’s legacy.
Over the decades, Supergirl has occupied a significant—if sometimes contentious—place in DC Comics history, with storylines ranging from the charmingly quirky to the deeply troubling. As anticipation builds for the next chapter of Supergirl on the big screen, speculation mounts about which parts of her history will make the jump to film—and which will be omitted.
Infamous Action Comics Issue Casts a Long Shadow
The early eras of comic books, particularly the Golden and Silver Age, were often marked by outlandish stories, with Supergirl and Superman frequently at the center of plots that blurred the line between playful and inappropriate. Among these, Action Comics #289, published in 1962 by Henry Boltinoff, Jerry Siegel, Leo Dorfman, Al Plastino, and Jim Mooney, stands out as one of the most controversial Superman-family tales ever printed by DC Comics.
On the cover—created by Curt Swan, George Klein, and Ira Schnapp—readers are met with an image of Superman embracing Luma Lynai, his interplanetary love interest. In the background, Supergirl, also known as Kara Zor-El, observes the scene, and her internal monologue becomes pivotal. The troubling nature of this issue is encapsulated by one line in particular:
“I’m so happy for Superman. But how strange that the woman he is finally going to wed looks exactly as I will when I grow up!”
—Kara Zor-El, Supergirl.
This remark, which draws uncomfortable parallels between Supergirl and Superman’s would-be bride Luma Lynai, led many readers to see unintentional, yet unmistakable, incestuous undertones. Such implications become inescapable when visually comparing Kara and Luma, making what could have been a sentimental moment much more contentious in hindsight. For these reasons, it is highly unlikely that James Gunn will draw from Action Comics #289 as a source of inspiration for Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. The heavy and controversial legacy of this issue continues to haunt the character’s depiction.
Plot Details that Sparked Decades of Discomfort
Delving deeper, Action Comics #289 does not merely rely on a problematic cover for its reputation; the internal story amplifies concerns. The plot unfolds with Supergirl attempting to act as a matchmaker for her cousin Superman, setting up a narrative ripe for light-hearted fun, but which takes a troubling turn. At one stage, Superman is depicted gently tilting his cousin’s chin and declaring:
“If I ever did marry… it would be to someone super and loveable like… you! We can’t marry because we are cousins. Though cousins can marry in certain countries here on Earth… we’re both from Krypton where the marriage of cousins is unlawful.”
—Superman, Kal-El.
Many modern readers have criticized this moment for its inappropriate undertones and awkward presentation. Superman, an adult man, speaks to his much younger cousin in a romantic vein, only abstaining due to Kryptonian law. The storyline becomes even more unsettling when Clark (Superman) pivots to pursue a romantic relationship with Luma Lynai, a woman who, as noted by Kara herself, bears an uncanny resemblance to Supergirl. The issue’s bizarre take on familial relationships, questionable boundaries, and visual storytelling has led fans and critics to call out DC Comics’ choices during the Silver Age.
Negative Reception and Enduring Notoriety among Fans
While the Silver Age is often celebrated for its eccentricity, the missteps seen in Action Comics #289 stand apart for their persistent negative reception among both contemporary and modern readers. Over time, the issue has developed a reputation for controversy and discomfort, underscored by its low rating: a mere 2.3 out of 5 stars on League of Comic Geeks.
“Supergirl tries to play matchmaker for her cousin Superman.”
—Action Comics #289 synopsis.
Closer examination of fan reviews reveals that even this low score is buoyed by the inclusion of a separate Superman story within the same issue; were it rated solely for the Supergirl matchmaking subplot, the score would likely be even lower. Fans frequently express that while the Superman tale is passable, the Supergirl-themed storyline crosses too many lines, featuring elements many consider unacceptable by today’s standards. Among the ongoing legacy of Supergirl’s stories, this issue is often cited as one best left out of future adaptations and discussions, reinforcing why James Gunn’s creative direction excludes it.
Curt Swan, George Klein, Ira Schnapp, and the rest of the creative team inadvertently cemented this comic’s place in history for all the wrong reasons, ensuring it serves as a cautionary reference point for future creators working on characters like Kara Zor-El and Kal-El.
A Change in Direction for the Upcoming Supergirl Movie
As production ramps up for Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, fans are eager to discover which past tales will shape the new cinematic vision. James Gunn, known for his thoughtful adaptations, has confirmed that Tom King’s acclaimed comic mini-series, also titled Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, will form the foundation for the script. That story, praised for its nuanced exploration of Kara Zor-El and her struggle for identity beyond her cousin’s shadow, offers a stark contrast to the missteps of earlier eras.
In moving away from flawed and controversial moments, Gunn seeks to rewrite Supergirl’s legacy, focusing on her as a complex and heroic figure. While elements from other sources may influence the film, the clear avoidance of stories like Action Comics #289 signals a more sensitive, responsible, and updated approach to the character. This decision also aligns with modern audience expectations and critical responses to past content, acknowledging the need for growth in how iconic characters like Supergirl are portrayed.
Fans continue to wait for more news, including an official poster and further casting announcements. Early concept art and alternative fan posters have already begun to circulate, sparking further speculation about costume design, storyline choices, and whether other iconic characters like Superman or Luma Lynai might appear, albeit under new, carefully considered circumstances.
The move by James Gunn and the creative team at DC Studios to exclude the controversial elements found in Supergirl’s history demonstrates both the evolution of superhero storytelling and a broader cultural push for more respectful and considered adaptations. By prioritizing the best aspects of Kara Zor-El’s character and history—while leaving behind the problematic legacies of issues like Action Comics #289—the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow movie has the potential to set a new standard for comic book adaptations.
