Initially, I wasn’t the biggest supporter of Supergirl, but that changed dramatically after I read Tom King’s *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*. This eight-issue series has transformed my perspective, prompting me to champion it as one of the finest depictions of Kara Zor-El throughout her 66-year comic history. Therefore, it comes as little surprise that James Gunn is drawing from this particular comic as inspiration for the forthcoming film adaptation titled *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*.
To truly appreciate the character of Kara Zor-El, one must experience the emotional depth and narrative complexity found in *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*. Although it is a relatively recent addition to her extensive comic lore, this series has quickly established itself as a significant chapter in Supergirl’s journey.
What makes this series particularly impactful is its portrayal of Kara’s transformative journey, where moments of deep sorrow are juxtaposed with inspiring victories. Despite the brevity of its eight issues, the series encapsulates the spirit of Supergirl. It presents her as a more complex and vulnerable character than her cousin Superman, yet one who embodies the essential values of the Super-Family.
What Is Tom King’s *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* About?
Cover Art by Bilquis Evely & Mat Lopes from *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* #2 (2021)
In *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*, Tom King places Kara in a bar on the fringe of the universe, residing in a solar system that lacks a yellow sun. Here, she turns to alcohol to numb her pain, haunted by the memories of her destroyed home planet and lost loved ones. She battles with existential uncertainty, finding herself questioning her own purpose after witnessing her cousin Kal-El grow up without her guidance.
As Kara confronts her turbulent history and a profound feeling of aimlessness, she also bears the weight of public perception—constantly compared to Superman. This series finds her at an all-time low, yet sparks of change ignite when a young alien girl, Ruthye, approaches her for help to avenge her father’s murder. Ruthye’s unwavering determination to pursue this dangerous mission, whether or not Kara joins her, serves as the catalyst for Kara’s own courageous journey.
As their adventure unfolds through the galaxy, Kara and Ruthye navigate complex themes of vengeance and justice. The narrative masterfully blends action with poignant storytelling, establishing a rich framework for Kara’s self-discovery. Through confronting loss, wrestling with grief, and redefining her role in the universe, Kara’s relationship with Ruthye compels her to confront her vulnerabilities and reevaluate the true meaning of heroism. This deeply emotional journey provides an unparalleled portrayal of her character.
Why *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* Is Kara Zor-El’s Definitive Narrative
Cover Art by Bilquis Evely & Mat Lopes from *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* #3 (2021)
*Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* undeniably represents the definitive tale of Kara Zor-El, illustrating what it means to be a hero through themes of character growth, moral complexity, sacrifice, and personal introspection. This series shines a spotlight on Kara’s development—not just as a superpowered being, but as a complex individual in her own right. It allows readers to appreciate her as a character beyond merely being Superman’s counterpart.
Delving deeper into Kara’s emotional struggles and past traumas, this series reveals layers of her character often overlooked in other stories. By taking the time to explore her backstory and her process of healing, Kara evolves into a hero defined not solely by her Kryptonian powers, but by her inner resilience, empathy, and strength. In my opinion, *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* serves as her most enriching and relatable narrative, capturing the essence of who she is in its truest form.
*Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* Is the Perfect Introduction for New Readers
Cover Art by Bilquis Evely & Mat Lopes from *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* #6 (2021)
As we anticipate James Gunn’s new Supergirl film, many fans may wish to explore Kara Zor-El’s universe before she hits the big screen. However, delving into over 66 years of comic history can be daunting, especially with the overwhelming number of titles available. I faced a similar challenge years ago, having seen Supergirl in various crossover stories but never picking up a comic dedicated solely to her.
Determined to know Kara Zor-El beyond her familial connection to Superman, I sought out recommendations for the best Supergirl runs. It wasn’t long before *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* garnered unanimous praise among fans. I am grateful I embarked on this journey, as prior to reading this series, my knowledge of Kara was limited to Superman’s narratives. I can confidently assert that *Woman of Tomorrow* serves as an excellent entry point—it offers a fresh perspective on her character while maintaining essential backstory elements. Furthermore, it fosters a genuine affection for her character, making it ideal for first-time readers.
James Gunn’s Choice to Adapt King’s *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* for His Film Is No Surprise
It has been a significant while since Supergirl last starred in a dedicated movie. Now, with DC embarking on a new chapter dubbed Gods and Monsters, the studio is revitalizing its approach, especially concerning its female superhero. Under James Gunn’s direction, the upcoming Supergirl film will not rely on established cinematic lore, aiming instead to introduce the character in a way that resonates with both existing fans and newcomers. This makes his decision to adapt Tom King’s *Woman of Tomorrow* all the more logical—few recent comic series have fleshed out the character of Supergirl as adeptly as this one.
*Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow* is readily available now through DC Comics.
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