Before Milly Alcock takes flight as Kara Zor-El in Supergirl, fans can familiarize themselves with the new DCU by watching Creature Commandos, Superman, and Peacemaker, all of which help establish the franchise's characters and overarching continuity. As anticipation builds for Milly Alcock's debut as Kara Zor-El in Supergirl, fans eager to dive into the new DC Universe may be wondering where to begin. While the upcoming film is expected to tell a largely standalone story inspired by Tom King's acclaimed Woman of Tomorrow comic, several DCU projects have already laid the groundwork for the world she will inhabit.

From animated introductions to the franchise's flagship superhero, these are the three essential DCU titles to watch before Supergirl arrives in theaters.

The first official entry in James Gunn's new DC Universe, Creature Commandos serves as the foundation of the franchise's continuity. The animated series introduces audiences to a world where monsters, antiheroes, and unconventional teams exist alongside more traditional superheroes.

Although Kara Zor-El does not appear in the series, Creature Commandos establishes the tone and storytelling approach that define the DCU moving forward. Its blend of action, humor, and character-driven drama offers viewers their first glimpse into the interconnected universe that will eventually expand through films like Supergirl.

If there is one project that is absolutely essential before watching Supergirl, it is Superman. The film introduces David Corenswet's version of Clark Kent and officially launches the DCU's live-action era, setting the stage for future stories across the franchise. It also provides viewers with a closer look at the world Kara Zor-El comes from, making it an important stepping stone before her solo adventure begins.

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The movie is also expected to provide audiences with their first meaningful connection to Milly Alcock's Kara Zor-El. Her appearance helps establish the relationship between Superman and Supergirl while offering important context for the Kryptonian mythology that will carry into her solo adventure. Since Supergirl reportedly takes place after the events of Superman, this film acts as the most direct setup for her story.

While Peacemaker originated within the previous DC Universe continuity, the series remains one of the most important character introductions heading into James Gunn's new DC Universe. Starring John Cena as Christopher Smith, the show explores the antihero's complicated past, personal struggles, and unexpected growth beyond his violent mission-driven persona.

Although Supergirl is not directly connected to the events of Season 1, the series provides valuable insight into a character who will continue into the DCU. It also offers an early look at Gunn's storytelling style, blending action, humor, and emotional depth in a way that has become a defining feature of the franchise's new direction.

Milly Alcock's Supergirl may chart its own path through the cosmos, but these three projects provide the strongest foundation for understanding the new DCU. Creature Commandos introduces the universe, Superman establishes its central heroes and Kryptonian legacy, and Peacemaker expands the continuity further. Together, they offer fans the clearest roadmap into the next chapter of DC storytelling before Kara Zor-El takes center stage.

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Are you planning to watch all three DCU projects before Supergirl arrives in theaters? Let us know in the comments!