Fans were stoked for James Gunn’s new Superman movie coming out in 2025. It’s a new take on the character and there was a surprise cameo that got a lot of people talking: Milly Alcock as Supergirl. Instead of a grand entrance, Kara Zor-El showed up messy. She was clearly drunk at the Fortress of Solitude and seemed to only be there for Krypto. This was weird and got people asking, “What’s going on with Supergirl’s appearance? ”
James Gunn explained Supergirl’s messy character was a deliberate choice to highlight the differences between her and her cousin, Kal-El who had a more traditional upbringing. Superman grew up in a loving and caring home with the Kents but Supergirl had a much harder life. This tough background has made her a bit of a mess at first. This will be her story in her new movie Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2026) which will be based on a comic where Kara starts off in a similar state.
Beyond the Buzz: Highlighting Superman’s Empathy
Supergirl’s introduction helped her fit into the growing DC Universe but Gunn said there was a bigger reason for her to be in Superman. The director said the main reason for Supergirl’s cameo was to show how deep Superman’s empathy is. In the movie Superman puts his life on the line to save Krypto, his super dog. When Lois Lane says, “It’s just a dog” Superman replies, “Yeah it’s not even a good one but it’s probably scared.” This shows he cares a lot for others.
This is the emotional peak of the story when Supergirl shows up. She reveals Krypto isn’t even Superman’s dog, he’s just dog-sitting for his irresponsible cousin. Gunn said even though Superman has the tough job of saving the world he still goes out of his way for a “pain in the ass” dog he didn’t even want to take care of. This simple act shows Superman’s heroism isn’t just about his super strength. It’s really about his deep and steady concern for all living things, even the ones that are a pain in the ass.
A Divisive Debut, A Promising Future
Supergirl’s messy and not-so-heroic first appearance has, as expected, divided long time fans. Some like the strong and realistic approach of the Woman of Tomorrow comic, others think it’s weird for a character who’s usually shown as more instant hero.
No matter how you react to this, this little appearance sets up Supergirl’s movie story. It shows her relationship with Superman, her personality shaped by her experiences and the story that Woman of Tomorrow will tell. As the DC Universe unfolds, Supergirl makes a strong first impression that will stick with you. This is just the beginning of her adventures.
