Once again, Hollywood is giving us a lesson in what doesn’t work. They tapped Sasha Calle, a relatively unknown actress, to play Supergirl in their latest, and rather costly, superhero effort. With a mega budget of $200 million, you’d think they’d at least try to ensure the film was a hit. Unfortunately, as many predicted, the box office projections are disappointingly low, with audiences unwilling to buy Calle as an all-powerful superhero. Critics aren’t warming up to the film either, resulting in a major box office flop and a whole lot of finger-pointing.
Now, let’s be honest. In this era of superhero oversaturation, it’s getting harder for movies to stand out, especially when the script fails to inspire. Critics have harshly criticized the plot, claiming it’s an unimaginative slog—think video game cutscenes masquerading as cinema. It’s so poorly written that even industry insiders are scratching their heads, wondering how such a script made it past the initial stages. Clearly, Hollywood needs to revisit what made superhero movies work in the first place, sans all the glitz and glamor that covers up flimsy storytelling.
As these movie debacles unfold, it’s becoming a little too predictable. An up-and-coming star, choosing this moment to publicly share personal revelations or attacking potential moviegoers, might not be the best strategy to ensure movie success. Calle recently joined a long list of celebrities who have seemed to forget that alienating fans isn’t quite the golden ticket they think it is. Attacking specific groups, such as conservative family audiences, is usually a recipe for fewer seats filled—and they’re already seeing the consequences.
Even the usually supportive critics have jumped ship on this one, which speaks volumes. Despite all the expensive promotions and critical back-patting, the reviews are overwhelmingly negative. When even Variety hesitates to support a superhero film, you know it’s missed the mark. With bland, generic storytelling overshadowing any visual spectacle, this colossal superhero misfire has left DC, once again, trying to find footing in a genre they should be ruling.
While some might hope movies like Supergirl can still be saved, it’s time for Hollywood to revisit their priorities. Remember Paramount’s recent hits with Tom Cruise? Perhaps there’s something to learn there. Films can be successful without pandering or relying on tired tropes—audiences just want something genuine and exciting. Until that happens, more movies, like Supergirl, will continue to miss the mark, leaving us all bemused and longing for the glory days of superheroes past.
