Supergirl (2026): A Flightless Heroine

Supergirl (2026) appears to be struggling to take off at the box office. It's important to clarify the year to avoid confusion with the 1984 film of the same name, though I will refrain from repeating the year throughout the commentary.

The film has been in theaters for over a month, yet its earnings fall significantly short of expectations. With a production budget of around $170 million, it has only grossed $126 million to date—$72 million in the United States and nearly $54 million internationally. The film was projected to recoup its costs within the first two weeks and start generating profit, aiming for around $350 million in total revenue, a target it has yet to achieve and one that seems increasingly unlikely.

This situation is particularly disappointing when compared to the financial success of Superman (2025). That film had a higher budget of $225 million plus $125 million in marketing, totaling $350 million in investment, and it grossed $620 million, exceeding initial projections of between $500 million and $750 million. While Superman met and even surpassed expectations, Kara’s latest outing risks becoming a significant disappointment.

A Contrast of Supergirl's Cinematic Representations: 1984 vs. 2026

This version of Supergirl marks Kara's second cinematic appearance, each reflecting the evolving role of women in society through their respective eras. A brief comparison reveals how the character's portrayal has changed from the 1980s to the 2020s, capturing the nostalgia for the past while attempting to reinterpret it through a contemporary lens.

Characterization of Supergirl in 1984

In my view, the 1984 Supergirl was a hybrid of Porkys and Superman. I refer to this realization not from my childhood perspective at age ten, but from a later understanding during my university years. The film left a lackluster impression, resembling more of a B-movie than a blockbuster. The character was a stunning young woman navigating the stereotypes of the 1980s, a time devoid of any politically correct filters.

This Supergirl was portrayed as naive, unfamiliar with human interactions, and encountering a wide range of societal archetypes—from the elite of academia to the dregs of American society.

Hypersexualized Naivety

The film depicted a variety of American subcultures, including the stereotypical rednecks, drug addicts, and punks, while also reflecting the cultural nuances of the time. The most unfortunate aspect of this Supergirl was her hypersexualization, with much of the plot revolving around romantic pursuits and rivalries, often involving magical potions to win over a love interest.

Characterization of Supergirl in 2026

The new Supergirl presents a different narrative. This version embodies a more assertive character, capable of using her laser vision against those who threaten her. However, this portrayal raises concerns about the message it sends regarding female empowerment.

Unlike the previous iteration, this Supergirl does not shy away from danger, but her approach seems to mimic the worst behaviors traditionally associated with men, rather than elevating the character to inspire women.

An Alcoholic Archetype

From the very start of the film, even in the trailer, she is depicted as a heavy drinker. The promotional materials, including the main poster, show her in a disheveled state against graffiti, which likely deterred parents from bringing their daughters to see a heroine struggling with her demons through alcohol.

This Supergirl's escapades resemble those of characters from Euphoria, and she could easily fit into the narrative of Bridget Jones. The character's portrayal as a potential candidate for Alcoholics Anonymous raises questions about the kind of role model she represents.

Marginalized Environments

I must admit I have never read a Supergirl comic, so I cannot ascertain whether her character consistently exists in marginalized settings, but both films certainly present her in such a light. This is unfortunate, as she possesses the potential to be a symbol of hope and empowerment. Yet, her characterization oscillates between being a troubled figure and someone who embodies negative traits.

For those seeking a film that champions traditional family values, I would recommend Los 4 Fantásticos: Primeros pasos.

Superpowers and Limitations

My disinterest in Supergirl as a superhero mirrors my feelings towards Superman. Characters like her, Superman, and others often lack depth in their stories due to their invincibility. They may face challenges, but ultimately, they are nearly indestructible, which diminishes the stakes of their conflicts.

In contrast, characters like the Fantastic Four often engage in more intellectually challenging conflicts, blending science fiction with superhero elements.

Supergirl (2026)

At this point, I will delve into spoilers. If you haven’t seen the film yet, you may wish to stop reading now.

Krypton

We learn from Superman that his home planet, Krypton, met its demise. However, Supergirl's experience is more tragic; she witnessed the destruction firsthand and had to escape in a bubble that left part of her city floating in space. Arriving on Earth as an alien, she grapples with the loss of her home and the weight of her lineage.

This duality of being an alien—strange, extraterrestrial, and foreign—plays a crucial role in her narrative, especially as she navigates her new life overshadowed by her cousin's legacy.

The film’s portrayal of her emotional struggles, particularly on her birthday, depicts her as resentful and burdened by her past, which adds depth to her character but also presents her in a less favorable light.

In summary, Supergirl (2026) struggles to resonate with audiences, both in terms of box office performance and character development, leaving many to question the direction of this iconic superheroine's cinematic journey.