DC Studios overcomes mediocrity and looks to Supergirl as a new beginning

In the recent discussion around the phenomenon known as 'superhero fatigue', Peter Safran, co-CEO of DC Studios, has made his position on the issue clear. He argues that there has never really been fatigue around superhero movies, but rather fatigue with the average quality of those films.

DC Extended Universe and the expected changes

The DC Extended Universe (DCEU), as we knew it, ended with the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom in 2023. The film received mixed reviews and seemed like an unexpected end to years of superhero storytelling. Safran points to these pitfalls and says audiences are looking for fresher and more original stories.

“I’ve never felt there was fatigue around superheroes. What there really is, is fatigue with average movies,” Safran said. That is why attention is now turning to the upcoming Supergirl film, which is expected to offer a fresh take on the superhero genre.

The new Supergirl film

Supergirl, due out in June 2026, follows the story of Kara Zor-El, played by Milly Alcock. The film is inspired by Tom King and Bilquis Evely’s comic Woman of Tomorrow and promises a different approach to superhero mythology with elements of space fantasy. In the film, Kara must not only deal with her lost homeworld, but also rescue Krypto the Superdog from a mysterious poisoning.

The film takes a different tone from its predecessor Superman, as confirmed by director Craig Gillespie. He noted that the movie takes place entirely in space, adding a unique aspect to the story. “They’re so different in tone,” Gillespie said. “And we can really zoom in on that.”

Competition in 2026

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a busy one for superhero films, with Spider-Man: Brand New Day arriving in July, Clayface in October, and the big finale Avengers: Doomsday in December. This will be a test of Safran’s claim that audiences are craving more inventive stories.

The future of DC Studios

In the emerging DC universe, Safran and his team are looking to expand the lineup with originals that think beyond the average superhero movie. The focus is now on quality over quantity, with a strong emphasis on unique stories and compelling characters.

With films like Supergirl and the announced follow-up Man of Tomorrow, there is a chance for a potentially fresh start for DC Studios at a time when the genre is evolving. Safran hopes this new direction will answer earlier disappointments and win audiences back.