Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow – Plot Summary and Key Information

Following James Gunn’s appointment as co-CEO of DC Studios alongside Peter Safran, significant changes have been announced, marking a promising future for the DC Universe. One of the standout developments is the introduction of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, a film that aims to revitalize the character within a cohesive superhero narrative. The DCEU has struggled with tonal shifts and production challenges since the release of Man of Steel in 2013, but Gunn’s strategic vision offers hope for a well-defined direction for upcoming DC films, including this much-anticipated Supergirl installment.

While Supergirl may not be the most high-profile superhero in the DC roster, her potential has often been overlooked. The character’s history includes a critically panned movie released in 1984, which flopped at the box office (source: Box Office Mojo). Although she enjoyed success on the small screen with the long-running CW series, this iteration was largely rooted in television tropes. Therefore, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow represents a crucial opportunity to bring her story to cinematic life, enriching the DC Universe’s narrative potential.

Latest Updates on Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

Casting News and Character Revelations

As the production of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow gains momentum, significant casting decisions have come to light. Milly Alcock will portray Supergirl, accompanied by Matthias Schoenaerts in the role of Krem. Most notably, Deadline confirmed that Eve Ridley will portray Ruthye Marye Knoll, a younger character seeking retribution that requires Supergirl’s assistance as they embark on a cosmic journey together.

Jason Momoa Joins as Lobo

Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry swimming in Atlantis

In a surprising twist, Jason Momoa has confirmed his role as Lobo in the film. This long-awaited casting aligns perfectly with Momoa’s expressed enthusiasm for the character, making it evident that he is now transitioning from his famed portrayal of Aquaman. Given the ambiguity surrounding his Aquaman future, this new role signals a shift in his advocacy within the DC Universe.

Interestingly, Lobo’s inclusion in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow seems unusual, as he does not play a central role in the comic book narrative the film adapts. The exact nature of his involvement remains undisclosed, but Momoa’s star power suggests that the character may have more extensive plans in the DCU beyond this initial appearance.

Confirmation of the Film

Official Announcement and Team

Sasha Calle as Supergirl in The Flash Movie Trailer

In January 2023, James Gunn officially announced Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow among various projects in the DCU’s expanding slate. This lineup includes Superman, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, and Swamp Thing, under the overarching narrative arc of Chapter 1: God and Monsters. Although the precise order of production remains fluid, Supergirl appears strategically positioned between Batman and Swamp Thing.

Recently, Gunn revealed on his social media that Ana Nogueira has been appointed as the screenwriter, expressing enthusiasm for her vision of the story. Additionally, acclaimed director Craig Gillespie is set to helm this innovative take on Supergirl, which promises an enriching cinematic experience.

Anticipated Release Date

Summer 2026 Premiere

Milly Alcock with Supergirl on her right — Custom image by Andy Behbakht

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is slated for release on July 26, 2026, approximately a year after the debut of DCU’s Superman movie scheduled for July 11, 2025. This strategic timing allows for narrative continuity while not overshadowing the initial Superman release. Additionally, with adequate time allocated for filming and post-production, expectations are high for this entry to solidify its place as a key element in the DC Universe’s chronological narrative.

Reports indicate that filming is expected to commence in January 2025, lending further credence to the projected release date. The film stands poised to be a significant part of the DCU’s development unless further surprises emerge along the way.

The Star-Studded Cast

Milly Alcock Takes Center Stage

Amid previous speculation regarding Sasha Calle’s future as Supergirl post-The Flash, it has been confirmed that Milly Alcock will embody DCU’s Kara Zor-El, following the announcement on January 29, 2024. Alcock emerged as Gunn’s top choice after impressing the director with her standout performance in House of the Dragon. Tom King, the creator of the Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow comic, publicly supported this casting decision, describing it as “perfect.”

Rumors suggest that Alcock may first appear in the upcoming Superman film, although no official announcements regarding inter-film connections have been made by Gunn or DC Studios to date.

Alongside Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl, other members of the cast have been confirmed, including Matthias Schoenaerts as Krem, the film’s primary antagonist, and Eve Ridley as Ruthye Mary Knoll. The addition of Jason Momoa as Lobo enhances this already impressive ensemble, with more casting announcements likely forthcoming.

Exploring the Storyline

Adaptation of the Comic Narrative

Cover of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow comic

While one might expect Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow to follow a lighthearted tone, James Gunn suggests it may offer a profound contrast to more traditional superhero narratives. Gunn hinted that the film will explore darker themes, showcasing Supergirl’s traumatic upbringing on Krypton and her subsequent 14 years marked by loss and turmoil up to her arrival on Earth.

According to Gunn’s comments, the audience will encounter “a Supergirl who is fundamentally different from the version most are familiar with.”This sets the stage for a narrative filled with unexpected developments.

Furthermore, Gunn emphasized Tom King’s original comic storyline as a significant influence on the film’s script. This comic, which debuted in 2022, is highly regarded and explores Supergirl’s encounter with an alien girl seeking vengeance for the destruction of her planet.

The inclusion of Krem of the Yellow Hills as the primary antagonist suggests an engaging conflict reflective of the comic’s themes. The presence of such formidable opposition hints at intense confrontations that could provide early dramatic moments within the franchise.

While it is unlikely that Supergirl will team up with Superman in this project, Gunn’s exploration of the distinctions between the two characters raises captivating possibilities, potentially enriching both their stories and the broader world-building efforts within the new DC narrative.