Supergirl Director Dives In Without Prior Comic Knowledge

When Craig Gillespie agreed to helm the much-anticipated Supergirl film, he did so without any prior immersion in the character’s established universe. Rather than consulting the original comic series, Gillespie chose to approach the project with a clean slate, relying entirely on Ana Nougeira’s screenplay to shape his understanding and expectations.

Screenplay First, Source Material Later

Gillespie’s decision to forgo reading the “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” comic before signing on is somewhat unconventional, especially given the film’s roots in Tom King and Biliqus Evely’s 2022 miniseries. The adaptation was initially announced in 2023, with James Gunn highlighting its direct connection to the comic. At one stage, the film even carried the same subtitle as the source material, before ultimately dropping it.

Instead of delving into the comic’s lore, Gillespie placed his trust in Ana Nougeira, who was tasked with writing the script. Nougeira, who has also been tapped to write for upcoming DC Universe projects including Wonder Woman and Teen Titans, became the director’s primary guide to the world of Supergirl.

Creative Collaboration and New Perspectives

Gillespie’s approach allowed him to engage with the material from a fresh angle, unburdened by preconceived notions or fan expectations. This method, while not typical for comic book adaptations, can sometimes lead to a more distinctive vision. The director, best known for his work on I, Tonya, joined the project in April 2024, bringing his own sensibilities to the table.

By relying on Nougeira’s interpretation, Gillespie aimed to capture the essence of the character as presented in the script, rather than being influenced by previous iterations. This collaborative dynamic between writer and director may well result in a film that stands apart from its comic origins, offering audiences something rather unexpected.