Milly Alcock’s ‘Supergirl’ undergoes multiple CBFC cuts in India as explicit dialogues and visuals are removed ahead of release

As anticipation builds for DC Studios' upcoming superhero adventure ‘Supergirl’, the film has undergone a series of modifications before reaching Indian theatres. Starring Milly Alcock in the titular role and Jason Momoa as the fan-favourite anti-hero Lobo, the film is scheduled for a worldwide release on June 26.However, audiences in India will see a slightly altered version after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) recommended several edits. Details from the certification process have since surfaced online, sparking discussion among moviegoers and comic-book fans. The film follows the success of James Gunn's ‘Superman’ and serves as the next major chapter in the newly launched DC Universe.

CBFC removes explicit language and visuals

According to certification details, the Indian theatrical version of ‘Supergirl’ has been approved with a runtime of 109 minutes and 58 seconds.

The CBFC reportedly instructed the makers to include anti-smoking and anti-alcohol disclaimers wherever required. In addition, several commonly used expletives have been removed from both the dialogue track and subtitles.The board also directed the deletion of an offensive hand gesture shown in the film. The edits mean that certain moments that remain untouched in international markets will be modified for Indian audiences.

The censorship details quickly gained traction on social media, with fans debating whether such changes affect the overall viewing experience.

A darker take on the iconic heroine

Unlike previous screen versions of the character, ‘Supergirl’ is expected to present a far more emotionally layered and battle-scarred protagonist. The film draws inspiration from Tom King and Bilquis Evely's acclaimed comic series ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’.Speaking to Screen Rant about the character's emotional journey, DC Studios co-head James Gunn previously highlighted how Kara Zor-El's upbringing differs significantly from Superman's."In our story, we have Superman, who was sent to Earth and raised by incredibly loving parents. Kara was on Krypton. She was on a piece of Krypton that drifted away from the planet, and she lived there for the first 14 years of her life in a horrible situation where she watched everyone around her die.

So, she’s a much harsher and more f*cked up Supergirl than you’ve been used to thus far."The statement offered early insight into the film's darker tone and the emotional scars carried by its central character.

How ‘Supergirl’ stands apart from ‘Superman’

While both heroes originate from Krypton, the new film explores a dramatically different perspective. Unlike Kal-El's relatively hopeful upbringing on Earth, Kara's experiences are shaped by loss, trauma and survival.As a result, ‘Supergirl’ moves beyond traditional superhero storytelling and delves into themes such as identity, resilience and personal healing. The narrative aims to explore how past experiences influence an individual's choices and worldview.The filmmakers have positioned the project as a character-driven journey rather than a conventional action spectacle, offering audiences a more intimate look at Kara's struggles and strengths.

Cast of ‘Supergirl’

Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, ‘Supergirl’ features an ensemble cast led by Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El. Jason Momoa joins the DC Universe as the intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo, while David Corenswet reprises his role as Superman/Clark Kent following his appearance in ‘Superman’.The film also stars Eve Ridley as Ruthye Marye Knoll, Matthias Schoenaerts as Krem of the Yellow Hills, David Krumholtz as Zor-El, Emily Beecham as Alura In-Ze, Ferdinand Kingsley as Elias Knoll and Diarmaid Murtagh as Drom Baxton.

Looking ahead in the new DC universe

‘Supergirl’ represents another important step in James Gunn's long-term vision for the revamped DC Universe. Following the film's release, Milly Alcock and Jason Momoa are expected to return for the next chapter, tentatively titled ‘Man of Tomorrow’.The sequel recently entered production and is currently slated for a global release on July 9, 2027.With its darker storytelling approach, emotionally complex protagonist and expanding DC mythology, ‘Supergirl’ is shaping up to be one of the year's most closely watched superhero releases, even as discussions around its Indian censor cuts continue online.