Why Stargirl Is Not Your Average Superhero Show

TV viewers have been inundated with superhero content of all kinds. With so many of these shows available, it can be difficult to find one that stands out. Stargirl, from executive producer Geoff Johns, is one of those rare stories that succeed in providing a fresh perspective on this genre. The show follows the character Courtney Whitmore as she becomes Stargirl after discovering a cosmic staff and seeks to create a group of teenage superheroes.

Stargirl is a fresh and fun take on a genre that’s lost some of its excitement. Here are four reasons Stargirl is not your average superhero tv show:

Breaks From a Gritty Tone

Stargirl takes a much lighter tone than many of the gritty superhero shows on television. While it does not shy away from real stakes by any means, the lightheartedness of the storytelling fits well with a show primarily about teenage characters and feels appropriate for family viewing. Many viewers will welcome a much-needed break from the dark voice that characterizes other superhero stories.

Features an Obscure Character

Though avid comic book readers are likely familiar with Stargirl’s comic book character, casual fans can look forward to the exploration of a more obscure character from DC’s history. Hardcore fans will also rejoice as the writers pay fans service with many deep cuts that bring new details of DC’s comic universe to the screen for the first time. Instead of telling the same well-known stories over again, Stargirl breaks away from the norm with a show about a character that many viewers may not yet know.

Provides Movie-Level Production Value

Viewers will appreciate the high-quality production value of Stargirl. The show has vibrant cinematography that appears more like a movie than is typical for television. Special effects fans will be happy to see that a combination of both practical and CGI effects are used to bring many aspects of the story to life, including the robot used by Courtney’s stepfather Pat. The quality of Stargirl sets it far apart from many other superhero shows on television today.

Combines of Old and New

Throughout Stargirl, the creators play with the concept of old and new. This concept can be clearly seen with the creation of the small-town Blue Valley. Though the show takes place in the here and now and includes many aspects of modern life, Blue Valley is a throwback to another time with tons of visual elements from the past. This juxtaposition between the new and old is a fun and creative element of the show.

The interplay of new and old is found in more than just the visual elements of the show. It can also be seen with the relationships between different generations of superheroes and villains. The title character, for example, works closely with her stepdad, who was the sidekick to a hero from decades before.

Stargirl is an exciting, family-friendly show that manages to separate itself from the growing number of superhero stories on television through a fresh take that is sure to resonate with viewers.