The initial season of HBO's anthology series True Detective presents an ideal opportunity for a weekend binge, particularly for those drawn to the gritty, character-focused detective work seen in the new HBO Max series Lanterns. The latter show, which boldly departs from traditional space-faring superhero narratives to embrace a rural detective story akin to "Stephen King Meets The X-Files," shares stylistic and thematic similarities with True Detective's inaugural season.
Lanterns, featuring Hal Jordan and John Stewart investigating a Nebraska shooting with potential alien implications, has been described as "True Detective with power rings." This comparison highlights the series' grounding in a more terrestrial, crime-thriller genre. For viewers unfamiliar with True Detective or needing a refresher, the first season serves as a benchmark for its compelling narrative and atmospheric depth.
Created by Nic Pizzolatto, True Detective's first season, released in 2014, centers on Louisiana State Police detectives Rustin "Rust" Cohle, played by Matthew McConaughey, and Martin "Marty" Hart, portrayed by Woody Harrelson. The story unfolds across multiple timelines, primarily focusing on their investigation of a ritualistic murder in 1995, a cold case that resurfaces with similar elements in 2012. The narrative also explores their fractured relationship and the events leading to their estrangement, depicted in parallel storylines set in 2002.
The season excels through its intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and genuinely unsettling elements that contribute to its suspenseful, almost horror-like atmosphere. The supporting cast of suspects and persons of interest further enhances this mood, presenting a cast of bizarre and unnerving rural characters. Pizzolatto's writing, with all eight episodes penned by him, and Cary Fukunaga's direction contribute to a cohesive and engaging viewing experience, despite the non-linear structure.
The series' moody and bleak aesthetic is maintained consistently, yet the distinct visual styles and character portrayals across different time periods prevent any confusion for the viewer. This complexity rewards close attention, allowing the intricate story to unfold spectacularly. The dual timeline structure, showcasing the detectives' partnership in 1995 and their animosity in 2012, is a significant draw, offering a masterclass in character development and performance from McConaughey and Harrelson.
McConaughey's portrayal of the obsessive and psychologically scarred Rust Cohle is juxtaposed with Harrelson's depiction of the more traditional, temperamental Marty Hart. Their contrasting personalities and evolving relationship form the emotional core of the series. The show's exploration of their flawed characters and the dark themes they confront makes for a captivating watch.
Similarly, Lanterns appears to be cultivating an "Odd Couple" dynamic between the veteran Hal Jordan and the earnest John Stewart. The rural Nebraska setting of Lanterns also evokes the atmospheric Southern Gothic feel of True Detective's Louisiana backdrop. With its own time jumps and surprising twists evident even in the first episode, Lanterns seems poised to deliver a narrative as engaging as the HBO series that inspired it. Both True Detective and Lanterns are available for streaming on HBO Max.