Milly Alcock Anticipates Criticism Ahead of Supergirl Release
Australian actress Milly Alcock has revealed she is preparing for potential backlash as the release of the upcoming DC film Supergirl approaches. The 25-year-old star, reflecting on her experiences from the Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon, highlighted the intense scrutiny women often face in popular franchises.
Reflections on Gender Scrutiny in Franchises
In an interview with Vanity Fair, Alcock shared insights from her time on House of the Dragon, stating, 'It definitely made me aware that simply existing as a woman in that space is something that people comment on.' She elaborated on societal attitudes, adding, 'We have become very comfortable having this weird ownership of women’s bodies. I can't really stop them. I can only be myself.'
Her remarks have ignited a significant reaction on social media platforms, with some critics drawing comparisons to actress Rachel Zegler, who faced controversy last year over comments about Disney's Snow White. Zegler had described the original 1937 film as 'weird' and criticized Prince Charming's behavior, leading to a negative press storm. She defended the updated version, saying, 'It’s an 85-year-old cartoon, and our version is a refreshing story about a young woman who has a function beyond "Someday My Prince Will Come."'
Social Media Reactions and Defenses
The backlash to Alcock's comments has been swift, with notable figures weighing in. Director Joseph Kahn, known for working with artists like Taylor Swift, criticized the remarks on X, writing, 'And the audience just left the building. Gotta get your stars to stop talking like this.' Author Devon Eriksen added, 'Oh, look. They're trying to do damage control before the terrible movie is even out.' Another user questioned, 'Are they trying to Snow White this movie by ruining it with stupid things said by the film's stars?'
Despite the criticism, some fans have come to Alcock's defense. One supporter argued, 'Hardly Snow White level here. Young people say stupid s**t, who cares?' Another noted, 'This negativity at everything female led is getting boring. If it was a bloke playing Supergirl I’d get it. Trailer looks okay and a good actress too. I think the film deserves a shot!' A third pointed out, 'Doesn't the backlash she's getting right now literally prove her point?'
Context Within the DC Universe
Supergirl is set to be the second film in the newly rebooted DC Universe, following last year's Superman, which grossed $618 million worldwide and received critical acclaim. Directed by James Gunn, Superman sparked debates over its perceived parallels to the Israel-Palestine conflict, with progressive commentator Hasan Piker describing it as 'two hours and like 10 minutes of f**k Israel the entire time.' Gunn, however, clarified that the film 'doesn’t have anything to do with the Middle East.'
Alcock had a minor role in Superman, serving as a teaser for her leading part in Supergirl, scheduled for release on June 26. According to Warner Bros, the plot involves Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, teaming up with an unlikely companion on an interstellar journey of vengeance and justice after a ruthless adversary strikes close to home. The film also stars Belgian actor Matthias Schoenaerts, David Krumholtz, and Emily Beecham.
This release will be followed by additional DC Comics movies, including Clayface and Man of Tomorrow, continuing the expansion of the franchise.
