First Reactions to ‘Supergirl’ Are In and One Comparison Keeps Coming Up: ‘Mad Max’

While many assumed the film would echo the tone of “Superman” or James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies, several first impressions point instead to a grittier cosmic adventure led by Milly Alcock’s Kara Zor-El.

The picture, directed by Craig Gillespie, arrives in theaters on June 26 and follows Supergirl as she embarks on a galaxy-spanning quest for revenge alongside her dog Krypto.

Why Everyone Is Comparing ‘Supergirl’ to ‘Mad Max’

One theme surfaced repeatedly across the first wave of reactions: “Mad Max.” Rather than leaning heavily into colorful space opera territory, several viewers described a harsher universe filled with rough-edged worlds, dangerous characters, and a protagonist carrying significant emotional baggage.

Journalist Mike Ryan wrote that the film “looks and plays more like a Mad Max movie, with dirty worlds, gross villains and a self destructive hero,” adding that it was far different from what he initially expected.

That darker approach appears to be intentional. Based on the acclaimed comic “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” the title centers on a version of Kara who endured the destruction of Krypton in a far more traumatic way than her cousin Superman. DC Studios has previously described this incarnation as more jaded and closer to an antihero than the hopeful Kryptonian audiences are accustomed to seeing.

Other reactions highlighted the film’s blend of influences. CineXpress called it “a solid follow-up to last summer’s Superman,” describing the story as an intergalactic road trip that mixes emotional weight with large-scale adventure. The outlet also singled out Alcock’s performance, praising her portrayal of Kara as both “fierce and vulnerable.”

The AU Review similarly pointed to the picture’s darker edge, noting that it carries “MAD MAX vibes” while drawing motivation from a revenge-driven story reminiscent of “John Wick.” The reaction also praised Alcock’s lead turn and highlighted Jason Momoa‘s debut as the bounty hunter Lobo, saying he brings his signature chaotic energy to the DC Universe.

The comparisons align with comments previously made by director Craig Gillespie, who described “Supergirl” as a road movie set across multiple worlds and said the story explores the trauma Kara carries from her childhood. With early reactions emphasizing its rougher tone and Alcock earning consistent praise, “Supergirl” is already shaping up as one of DC’s most unconventional entries yet.