Supergirl Director Admits He Skipped Comics Before Signing On
Craig Gillespie reveals his unconventional approach to preparing for the upcoming DCU film adaptation.
The filmmaker behind the upcoming DCU Supergirl movie took an unusual path when preparing for the project. Craig Gillespie, known for directing I, Tonya, has admitted he never bothered reading the source material that inspired the film before agreeing to helm it.
Script First, Comics Later
Rather than diving into Tom King and Biliqus Evely's 2022 comic series "Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow," Gillespie chose to let screenwriter Ana Nougeira's adaptation shape his understanding of the character. This approach meant the director came to the project with a completely fresh perspective, uninfluenced by any preconceived notions about Kara Zor-El's story.
The decision represents a departure from how many filmmakers typically approach comic book adaptations. Most directors spend considerable time studying the source material to understand character motivations, visual styles, and fan expectations.
Building the DCU Foundation
When James Gunn announced the Supergirl project in 2023, he specifically highlighted its connection to the acclaimed comic miniseries. The film initially carried the full "Woman of Tomorrow" subtitle before eventually dropping it for a simpler title.
Ana Nougeira, who's become a key writer in Gunn's new DC Universe, is handling multiple major projects. Beyond Supergirl, she's crafting scripts for both Wonder Woman and Teen Titans films, making her one of the most influential voices in shaping the DCU's future direction.
Gillespie officially joined the project in April 2024, bringing his experience with character-driven stories to the superhero genre. His track record suggests he'll focus heavily on the emotional core of Kara's journey rather than just spectacle.