I think it’s safe to say that we could all use a little joy in our lives right now, and Supergirl is here to save the day!
Tonight’s Season 2 premiere of Supergirl, “The Adventures of Supergirl,” is a strong start on its new network, The CW. There’s a confidence, both with Kara and in the overall tone of the show; you can feel how the story and the characters have grown. Although I adored the first season on CBS, at times it felt like they were holding back a bit as not to offend more casual viewers. The move to The CW is the best thing that could have happened, as the show can embrace its full potential. In just one episode, there’s a greater sense of freedom in the storytelling, and an increase in the element of the fantastical that has made this universe so magical to me since I was a child.
For viewers that were concerned that the addition of Tyler Hoechlin as Superman/Clark Kent would take the attention away from Supergirl/Kara, those fears are very quickly extinguished. There is no doubt at all that this is still very much Supergirl’s story. Clark’s presence doesn’t overshadow Kara and her accomplishments, but is rather more supportive. Also, one of my favorite touches in “The Adventures of Supergirl” is that while most people in National City are quite taken with Clark, he’s not Mr. Popularity with everyone. Hoechlin is a great addition to the cast so far, as is Katie McGrath’s Lena Luthor. I’m very excited to learn more about her this season.
The reasons I fell in love with Supergirl are still there: the themes of family, friendship, and encouraging people to always try to be the best version of themselves. Kara balances courage, goodness and a sense of purpose while others encourage her to continue challenging herself. Kara knows that it can be good to be independent, but also has a sense of when to ask for and accept help. When not saving the world, Kara is trying her best to be a normal girl doing normal girl things, and while having a higher calling often gets in the way of that, she never gives up on wanting to achieve that balance in her life.
Moving production from Los Angeles to Vancouver has changed the look of the show only slightly, and I didn’t find it distracting. The most notable is the DEO’s shiny new home, which leads to a few laughs. Frequently used sets like Kara’s apartment and Cat’s office are pretty much intact.
For fans of both the Supergirl and Superman comic and film universe, there are some great Easter eggs to look out for in “The Adventures of Supergirl” and I’m excited to see how some of those play out in future episodes this season.
The Season 2 premiere left with the same happy feelings that I had throughout the first season. From the moment it started, I felt like a kid again in the best possible way. “The Adventures of Supergirl” had me cheering, laughing and squealing with delight. I had the biggest smile on my face from beginning to end.It’s inspirational and aspirational without beating preachy. I think it’s safe to say that Supergirl has kept its balance of humor and heart in between action sequences, and that’s what makes Supergirl stand out from the other superhero fare on TV at the moment.
Catch Supergirl tonight at 8/7c on The CW in the US, or at 8pm ET/7pm PT on its new Canadian network, Showcase.
Photo courtesy of The CW
