James Gunn has shared new insights into how Milly Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl differs significantly from David Corenswet’s Superman within the DC Universe. As Superman returned to theaters in 2025 with Gunn’s latest film, fans were surprised to see Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, make her first cinematic appearance, setting the stage for her upcoming solo film in 2026.
Supergirl’s debut in the Superman movie features a memorable scene where an intoxicated Kara arrives at the Fortress of Solitude to reclaim her dog, Krypto. This moment marks the first time the two Kryptonian cousins have been shown together on the big screen, providing a fresh perspective on their relationship within the franchise.
James Gunn Discusses Supergirl’s Complex Background Compared to Superman
In an interview with Ash Crossan from ScreenRant, James Gunn elaborated on Supergirl’s cameo and how her story diverges from Superman’s. Gunn characterized Kara as “a total mess,” emphasizing that her difficult past contrasts sharply with Superman’s more stable upbringing. While Clark Kent benefited from being raised by loving and healthy parents, Kara faced a much harsher background, which shaped her into a very different character.
ScreenRant: Obviously it’s quite a contained story, but we do see Krypto is a mess… and belongs to another mess, which is Supergirl.
James Gunn: That’s right.
ScreenRant: Is that the version of Supergirl we’re going to meet in the next film?
James Gunn: Yeah, that’s her. She’s a mess. She’s a total mess. I mean, I think as we learn, she’s had a completely different background from Superman. A much more difficult background. He’s had this wonderful upbringing by these two parents that loved him and were very healthy. And her background was much different than that. And she’s ended up different than her cousin.
The Significance of Supergirl’s Introduction for DC Universe
Supergirl’s introduction in the Superman movie aligns closely with the comic series Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, upon which her solo film is based. Gunn’s decision to introduce Kara through the eyes of Superman provides a meaningful foundation for her character’s journey in future DC Universe projects. This approach highlights the vastly different circumstances that shaped her, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of her character compared to previous live-action versions.
Unlike Clark, who was raised on Earth with care and stability, Kara’s story offers an opportunity to explore the challenges she faced due to her background. This distinction will set the tone for her solo film and other appearances in the DCU, presenting a rawer and more complex heroine.
What Fans Can Expect From Supergirl’s Upcoming Film
James Gunn’s revelations make Milly Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl even more compelling, promising a narrative that contrasts sharply with Superman’s story. Viewers caught a glimpse of Kara’s chaotic nature in the 2025 film, but her solo movie, scheduled for release in 2026 and directed by Craig Gillespie, will expand on her character in greater depth. Set largely in space, the film will explore Kara’s distinct identity apart from her cousin.
The relationship between Supergirl and her dog Krypto is also poised to evolve, offering a different dynamic from what audiences saw in the Superman film. With both heroes now part of the DC Universe under the leadership of co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran, fans eagerly await how their stories will intertwine moving forward.
Superman remains in theaters from July 11, 2025, while Supergirl is slated for a June 26, 2026 release, promising exciting developments within the DC Universe.
Details About the Cast and Production of Both Films
David Corenswet plays Clark Kent / Superman, with Rachel Brosnahan appearing as Lois Lane in the 2025 Superman film directed and written by James Gunn alongside co-writers Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The production is overseen by producers Lars P. Winther and Peter Safran.
Supergirl’s movie stars Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El and features Matthias Schoenaerts as Krem of the Yellow Hills, Eve Ridley as Ruthye Mary Knolle, and Jason Momoa reprising his role as Lobo. The film is directed by Craig Gillespie, with the screenplay credited to Tom King, Otto Binder, and Ana Nogueira. It is part of the expanding DC Universe lineup under the supervision of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
Both films fall under the genres of superhero, sci-fi, and adventure, continuing Warner Bros.’ efforts to rejuvenate and deepen the DC Universe narrative with new, intense, and multifaceted characters.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is James Gunn leaving Marvel?
A. In 2018, James Gunn lost his job at Marvel when old, inappropriate tweets were found. These tweets contained jokes about serious topics like pedophilia, abuse, and r-pe, causing widespread anger. By July 2018, the situation had dramatically shifted for him.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. The redesigned, CGI-animated Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman adaptation was inspired by Ozu. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household. He says praying still matters to him, yet he also describes himself as being “in some ways, anti-religion.”
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. He grew up in a Catholic household in Manchester, a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. He has five siblings: actor Sean, actor and political writer Matt, screenwriter Brian, Patrick, and Beth. His father’s family were Irish immigrants, so Gunn has Irish ancestry.
