Supergirl (2026) draws attention for altered ending and mixed reception

Director Craig Gillespie explained that the film’s concluding sequence was deliberately chosen to reflect Kara Zor-El’s emotional arc and was never altered in production. He said James Gunn “felt very strongly” about the decision and there were no alternate versions filmed.

Screenwriter Ana Nogueira revealed she misread the ending of Tom King’s *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* comic, believing the villain Krem was killed. The comic actually leaves Krem alive, but the mistaken interpretation led the movie to have Kara stab Krem, establishing a moral compass distinct from Superman’s. Nogueira noted the choice was meant to protect “Ruthye’s innocence” while giving Kara “justice without burdening the child.”

The film has received mixed reviews. Critics point to an uneven script, tonal inconsistencies, and an unpopular music cue – a guitar rendition of “The Middle” selected by Gunn. While Milly Alcock’s performance and the film’s visual effects have been praised, the movie opened to a modest $38 million against a $170 million budget, earning a B‑ grade from critics and a B‑ CinemaScore.

Overall, the movie redefines Supergirl’s origin, diverging from comic canon to emphasize trauma and a more complex hero, sparking discussion about its narrative choices and future direction within the DC Universe.