Stargirl, a CW and DC Universe show, is an innovative new show about high school sophomore Courtney Whitmore (Brec Bassinger) who, upon moving with her mother and stepfather to Nebraska, discovers that she is the next generation of the Justice Society of America's Starman. Courtney learns to balance her family life, her high school career, and the new "superhero" aspect of her life. While the premise of the show may seem like old news, there are several aspects that make this show an innovative, refreshing addition to DC Universe's lineup.
Woman-Led
The mere fact that a woman is the protagonist and hero of this show is enough to make Stargirl an outstanding show. Only a disappointing 12% of comics showcase female leads. The few times that a woman does finally act as a frontrunner, more often than not she is portrayed in some kind of stereotypical fashion (damsel in distress, "bait," love interest, etc.). Not only does Stargirl, produced by Mad Ghost Productions' Geoff Johns, feature leading lady Brec Bassinger as the show's Courtney Whitmore (aka Stargirl) in addition to several other female cast members, but each woman in the show has a unique background.Light-hearted
So many shows in the superhero genre have fallen back on the reliance of darker subtexts and backstories. While there are some darker elements to this show at times, the mood is always kept light with well-timed humor. Stargirl strikes an important balance between the heavy truths of reality and the day-to-day goofs that we all need to get by. While light-heartedness may seem like a way for the series to be less consequential, it is actually taking a huge step by showing that not every superhero needs to be stone-faced and solemn.Love-centric
Stargirl makes one message very clear: we need to support and be supported by our loved ones in order to get by. The show touches quite heavily on the aspect of found family. As Courtney becomes closer with her stepfather throughout the show, it speaks to the ways that familial bonds are much more than blood. The themes of friendship and love are recurring throughout the series, allowing the characters to experience growth and progress in their own relationships.Friendship-Focused
While there are hints of romance in the Stargirl series, there is still a very youthful energy about the show, and there is no romance forced on any two characters just for the sake of romance. This keeps the show genuine and allows the characters to invest more in their own storylines rather than catering to the need to be romantically attached. Stargirl is focused much more on friendships and familial bonds than advancing romantic plotlines, which allows for numerous possibilities for the story to evolve.Stargirl may seem like any other teen-based superhero drama on the surface, but the reality is that it is so much more than that. This show looks at relationships and character dynamics in a way that so few superhero series have been able to pull off. When looking for a superhero drama that is funny, relatable, speaks to the heart, and passes the Bechdel test, look no further than Stargirl.