HBO has released a trailer for the upcoming eighth episode of Lanterns, offering glimpses into the Season 1 finale and igniting a variety of fan theories regarding plot developments and character fates.
The trailer shows Sinestro challenging the Green Lanterns' core tenet of "no fear," advocating for its power. This appears to be connected to a plot to resurrect Hal Jordan, whose body was exhumed in the previous episode. The preview suggests that alien cloning technology, previously shown this season, might be used in this resurrection, with a ring marking on Hal's arm hinting at its application.
However, questions arise about potential misdirection. One theory posits that Hal Jordan may have faked his own death, a possibility previously hinted at by DC Studios head James Gunn, who suggested there is more to Hal's demise than initially revealed. The return of Guy Gardner, confirmed in the teaser, also adds another layer of mystery to the proceedings. The potential resurrection plan seems fraught with risk, prompting speculation about the true desires of Sinestro, John Stewart, and even Hal Jordan himself.
Hal Jordan, appearing to John Stewart, utters the cryptic phrase, "Don't be afraid to be afraid," which could cast doubt on John's steadfast adherence to the Lanterns' principles. The trailer also shows John looking skyward, potentially signaling his readiness to utilize the full power of his ring, including flight.
Previous episodes have demonstrated John Stewart's ability to manifest constructs without the physical presence of his ring, a feat that even surprised a hologram of Hal Jordan. This suggests John possesses a unique inherent power that may be fully revealed in the finale, possibly playing a role in saving the day.
A scene depicted in the trailer shows Hal fighting a fire in his home. While edited to appear post-resurrection, it may actually depict events leading up to his death. Given that Hal was reportedly disliked by his townspeople, the fire could be the result of an attack, such as a Molotov cocktail, with the trailer showing the aftermath.
Further speculation surrounds Noah, the high school quarterback and presidential hopeful, with fans theorizing he is a Manhunter whose true identity has been kept secret by Kerry. This leads to questions about whether Kerry killed Hal to prevent exposure or if Noah was directly responsible for Hal's death to protect himself.
The trailer also raises questions about Hal's decision to keep a portal to Sinestro's hiding place in his "failsafe" and why he posthumously directed John there, implying a deeper connection between these elements.
The first season of Lanterns concludes this Sunday, leaving viewers with numerous unanswered questions and hopes for a Season 2 renewal. A review of Episode 7 is available for those catching up before the finale.