3 Ways DC’s Stargirl Actually Does the Comic Books Justice
Shows based on comic universes can be a big hit or miss. If you’re an avid comic book fan, you know this better than most. A show comes out reinventing a comic book series you’ve been in love with since you were a kid. This puts a lot of pressure on the show’s creators to make it right, because you won’t miss a beat. The costumes have to be accurate, the setting has to be believable, and even the overall vibe of the show has to match. Luckily, this new DC creation hits all the marks.
1. Both Have the Same Creator
This show is DC’s Stargirl, a superhero teen drama television series created by Executive Producer Geoff Johns, the co-creator of the DC Comics series of the same name. It certainly helps to have the person that worked on the original comic book series to craft it into a live-action television show. In fact, the main character, Courtney Whitmore or Stargirl, is modeled after the executive producer’s sister who tragically passed away in a car crash. This gives homage to her life that abruptly stopped at age eighteen, lending a sort of authenticity to the show that you wouldn’t get otherwise.
2. The Characters Are Cast Ridiculously Well
Animated series are one thing, because the art can be more similar to that of the comic books. If you’re casting live-action characters, however, things can get a little more tricky. Sure, hair dye exists if a star doesn’t have the right hue, and exercise can get them in tip-top superhero shape. The one thing that can’t be changed is the essence a cast member gives off. Do they embody the original character that you know and love?
DC’s Stargirl comes with an all-star cast that was chosen seamlessly. Some of the cast includes:
- Brec Bassinger as Courtney Whitmore (Stargirl)
- Luke Wilson as Pat Dugan
- Joel McHale as Starman
- Henry Thomas as Doctor Mid-Nite
- Barbara Whitmore as Amy Smart
The show is star-studded, but the actors fit their characters regardless of celebrity status. The high school team of ragtag new Justice Society of America members is also cast well, giving viewers the palpable underdog origin story that is intended.
3. The Setting Is Iconic
Even though some sources say that superheroes aren’t the favorite of die-hard comic book fans anymore, the nostalgia of Stargirl hits a new chord. If you’re a fan of origin stories, this will satisfy a craving. If not, there is still this mix of new and retro settings that creates a unique, loveable atmosphere. Stargirl dons a cherry print crop top in front of her stepdad Pat’s cherry-red 1956 Buick Super. Then you’re transported into a relatively new looking high school hallway, with bright blue lockers and all the classic teenage clichés.
If you’re a fan of Riverdale, origin stories, underdog redemption, or even the original Stargirl DC Comics, it’s worth a watch. Comic books and shows can teach morals, spark ideas, or just provide relief from everyday trials and tribulations. Masterfully cast and crafted, DC’s Stargirl is a welcome escape.