I finally got to watch the pilot episode of Supergirl and can’t wait for the rest of the season. Supergirl allows people to indulge in their preconceptions about Superman but also have those tested or turned on their side by Supergirl.
If you missed Monday night’s premiere and aren’t faced with region issues, you can watch or rewatch the first episode of Supergirl for free at CBS, Amazon, Google Play (with coupon), iTunes, and other streaming services. Or watch the episode with commentary by Executive Producers Ali Adler and Sarah Schechter along with Director Glen Winter here. [I haven’t watched the commentary yet.]
As someone with a broad palate for all things within the Superman family (even Krypto) I was really pleased with Supergirl especially from the character drama and soapy relationship angle. Basically anytime Kara was emoting, I was engaged, and there’s some adventurous action that does its job.
Of course, as someone who loves Man of Steel, I couldn’t help but admire some of the parallels that show these two takes on Kryptonian cousins aren’t as far apart or as in conflict as some might like you to believe. Rather, there are some elements that show both storytellers looked to modernize and update their respective supers in a grounded, human, and relevant.
Starting on Krypton
Both open on Krypton to establish these are beings from another world. Very different yet also very human, with families who love them, mourn their loss, who feel fear and passion, experience tragedy, and hold hopes and dreams. Both mothers, Lara and Alura send off their children with tearful goodbyes.
Sent With A Mission
Both Kal-El and Kara are sent to Earth with a mission. Kal-El carries Jor-El and Lara’s hopes and dreams for a better world, one without the mistakes of Krypton. Alura wants Kara to survive and from the outset to act as a protector.
Not According To Plan
Yet, both suffer frustrations with the plans of their parents as well was unexpected complications. Clark isn’t a “god” growing up. Kara doesn’t protect or look over Kal-El. Zod’s survival was not a part of Jor-El’s plan. Kara’s 24-year detour with Fort Rozz trailing behind was not a part of Alura’s plan.
Life Changed At Age 13
Both experience a life-changing moment at that critical age of 13. Clark saves a bus full of children using his powers, his alien origins are revealed to him, and he agrees to have a normal childhood. Kara is ripped from her home planet and family, then arrives on a new planet without her mission, and adopted by a new family.
Same Safe Human-Type Childhood
Despite this trials and changes, both Clark and Kara have commitments towards having “safe human-type childhoods.” Clark didn’t become Superboy or act out adventures from Smallville. Kara followed the advice of her Superman and grew up a normal well-adjusted person. read more
