The Supergirl movie is determined to set things right with a crucial decision to have several physical production sets for different scenes that may set it apart from many other superhero films. From the first glimpse of the movie, its character-driven story and impressive visuals have caught fans’ attention. The inclusion of Lobo and Krypto, its adaptation of the acclaimed comic Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, and, most importantly, its decision to focus on Kara’s personal trauma have further fueled the excitement. 

Now, as per chatter from the set, the film also appears to have addressed a long-standing issue that has troubled many previous superhero movies.

The Supergirl movie relied heavily on several real sets for filming to make Kara’s world feel real. Several massive as well as small sets were built for the scenes, including a few for Krypton and Kara’s family apartment, while the planet’s decay was created using hand-painted artwork. As Supervising Hand Props, Charlie Horwood told Collider, the team aimed to ensure that everything appearing on camera existed in real life.

More than 300 people worked on the production, including 75 prop makers and 10 painters. From weapons to Kara’s space iPod, many of the film’s elements were physically created. Several of the movie’s key weapons were also produced in multiple versions to make them easier for the cast to use during filming. The fans' beloved, Krypto also got a practical version.

As Horwood explained, alongside the digital version, a physical Krypto was built from an IKEA rug and was capable of breathing, blinking, and even wagging its tail. This was a refreshing change after the 2025 Superman movie faced criticism from some viewers for its CGI dog. These are just a few of the many intricate details audiences may want to watch for when the film arrives.

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Before then, however, there is still plenty to learn about Kara’s world which can be explored in different movies and shows.

The first project in James Gunn’s new DC Universe is the animated series Creature Commandos. While it is not directly connected to Kara’s story, the show offers an early glimpse into the tone and style of storytelling that will shape the new DCU. This can be watched before Supergirl to understand Kara's world. 

Another movie to watch before the upcoming release is 2025’s Superman. Although Supergirl is expected to have a very different tone, the film introduces the world Kara comes from and establishes David Corenswet’s version of Clark Kent. It also features Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El.

Peacemaker is another series worth watching ahead of Supergirl. While it is not directly tied to the film’s plot, it gives a glimpse of the character, Kara. Now, considering the production’s emphasis on immersive set design, practical props, and physical environments, there is reason to be optimistic that Supergirl will offer a unique visual experience and may even address one of the most common criticisms often directed at modern superhero movies. 

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Do you think the practical sets in Supergirl could fix the issue previously seen in other Superhero movies? Share your take.