Gunn’s ear: how a ‘middle’ cover saved supergirl from social media’s wrath
Director Craig Gillespie reveals
James Gunn intervened to secure a surprising cover of Jimmy Eat World’s “The Middle” for the pivotal slow-motion battle scene in Supergirl, a choice that has ignited a furious debate online.A song choice that sparked a digital firestorm
The latest DC Universe installment, spearheaded by Gillespie, has stumbled into an unexpected crisis: a soundtrack decision that’s dividing fans and generating a tidal wave of criticism across social media. It all centers around a dramatic, extended sequence featuring Supergirl (Milly Alcock) defending her companion, Ruthye (Eve Ridley), against a relentless Brigand assault. What initially appeared as a visually arresting showcase of Kryptonian power, complete with a meticulously crafted slow-motion execution, was subtly underscored by Kelty Greye and KidMotel’s cover of “The Middle.”
Initially, the selection process was a protracted ordeal. Gillespie and screenwriter Ana Nogueira reportedly considered “approximately 45 songs” before Gunn reportedly stepped in, offering a decisive vote. ‘Oh, God. It went ’round and ’round, didn’t it?’ Nogueira recalled, highlighting the agonizing deliberation. ‘There were a lot of options.’ Gillespie emphasized Gunn’s influence: ‘And it was down to the very last week, and I gotta give James credit for that one.’
Fan backlash: a symphony of discord
The reaction has been swift and visceral. Online, the choice is being dissected with a brutal honesty. A Twitter user, @HiTopFilms, succinctly captured the sentiment: ‘If you are considering 45 songs for a needle drop don’t do a needle drop.’ Another voiced a more pointed critique: ‘A good theme for her would have been better than any needle drop.’ Several reviewers have noted a specific complaint – that the song feels jarringly out of sync with the film’s overall tone, a dissonance that’s proving deeply unsettling for many viewers. One particularly scathing comment reads: ‘I largely thought the movie was fine to pretty good most of the time but I just…. WHY did they use that version of the song?’
Beyond the noise: a creative gamble, or a misstep?
While some fans have acknowledged the cover’s merits on its own merits, the consensus remains largely negative. The decision has become a focal point of conversation, eclipsing other aspects of the film. It’s a prime example of how a seemingly minor creative choice can rapidly escalate into a full-blown online controversy. Supergirl premiered on June 26, 2026, and the debate continues to rage, demonstrating the potent influence of social media in shaping audience perception. Michael Cripe, IGN’s film critic, notes that “the one thing I noticed about Supergirl reviews was the comment about a final song not fitting.”
Gunn’s involvement, as a co-CEO of DC Studios and the director of Superman, adds another layer to the narrative. It suggests a level of creative oversight that extends beyond mere distribution, raising questions about the collaborative process and the prioritization of artistic vision versus audience expectations. Ultimately, Supergirl's soundtrack gamble has delivered a resounding – and decidedly uncomfortable – message: sometimes, less is more.