Behind-the-Scenes Drama in the Making of Supergirl
Supergirl, the latest DCU movie, has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The film’s creative differences between director Craig Gillespie and James Gunn’s DC Studios have been a hot topic of discussion, especially after its disappointing opening weekend at the box office.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, creative differences led to a series of test screenings, with the film’s crew struggling to choose a direction for the movie. The site cites ‘numerous sources’ who reported that Gillespie and Gunn had differing visions for the film, specifically when it came to the tone and pacing of the movie.
The test scores for the film were reportedly low, with some screenings receiving scores as low as 60 out of a possible 100 points. This led to DC Studios creating its own cut of the film, with the aid of Mortal Kombat 2 and Moon Knight writer Jeremy Slater. The studio’s version of the film was reportedly 11 minutes longer than Gillespie’s cut and placed a greater emphasis on Matthias Schoenaerts’ antagonist, Krem.
The decision to test two competing cuts of the film is not uncommon in the movie industry. However, it is rare for a studio to invest so heavily in the test process, especially when it comes to a film’s creative direction. As one anonymous filmmaker noted, ‘If a studio is going to put money into the test process, it means they feel strongly about certain things.’
One of the key areas of contention between Gillespie and Gunn was the film’s music. Fans have been criticizing the movie’s soundtrack, particularly the use of a cover of Jimmy Eat World’s ‘The Middle’ during a pivotal moment in the film. Gillespie has stated that Gunn made the call to include the song, and The Hollywood Reporter’s sources confirm this. However, the film’s soundtrack was not the only area of creative difference between the two parties.
The Hollywood Reporter’s sources also reveal that DC Studios had known about the film’s potential issues as early as fall 2025, just a few months after filming finished in May. The studio allegedly jumped in after a so-so screening in December 2025, creating its own cut of the film and working closely with writer Jeremy Slater.
The exact differences between the two cuts of the film are unclear, but it is evident that the creative differences between Gillespie and Gunn had a significant impact on the final product. The film’s test scores dropped after the two competing cuts were tested, with DC Studios’ version ultimately winning out by a narrow margin of two points.
The decision to test two competing cuts of the film raises questions about the creative process and the role of the studio in shaping the final product. As one industry insider noted, ‘It’s not normal for a studio to put money into the test process, especially when it comes to a film’s creative direction.’
Supergirl’s disappointing opening weekend has left many fans wondering if the film’s creative differences were a major factor in its poor reception. Only time will tell if the film’s post-production process was enough to salvage the movie’s chances of success.
