HBO's "Lanterns" Season 1, Episode 7, titled "The Jordan Boys Legacy," marks a significant return to form for the series, effectively re-establishing the core dynamic between Hal Jordan and John Stewart. The episode leverages a "Halogram" backup of Hal to circumvent his apparent death in the pilot, allowing for essential character interactions that were largely absent in the previous installment. This narrative device enables a deeper exploration of Hal's psyche and his family's dark legacy.
The episode opens with a flashback to Hal's childhood, introducing his father, Martin Jordan. This sequence provides crucial insight into Hal's character, illustrating how his father fostered a fearlessness in him, mirroring the upbringing John Stewart received. The flashback also hints at a generational struggle with deep-seated depression within the Jordan family. Actor Jake B. Miller is noted for his performance as Martin, capturing both bravado and pain.
Returning to the 2026 timeline, the reactivated Halogram allows for renewed banter between Hal and John. This version of Hal is depicted as slightly younger and less abrasive than his original self, leading to entertaining exchanges where the Halogram can express sentiments his physical counterpart might not have. A particularly strong scene involves Sheriff Kerry, played by Kelly Macdonald, interacting with the Halogram, showcasing what is described as Macdonald's most impactful performance in the series to date.
Despite its strengths, the episode shares a flaw with its predecessor: the subplots involving other Rushville locals are considered less compelling. The conflict surrounding John and Maggie's financial dispute over a blackmail payment is highlighted as particularly unimportant in the context of John's Green Lantern origin story. The narrative surrounding Noah also feels underdeveloped, though the review speculates he may be a human/Manhunter hybrid central to Hal's murder.
"The Jordan Boys Legacy" shifts location as John steps onto an alien world for the first time, an Antaan's home planet that Hal had previously bequeathed a portal to. This setting offers a glimpse of the devastation caused by Manhunters, although the visuals are described as a flat desert. The atmosphere of the alien world is enhanced by Stephanie Economou's score.
The episode culminates in the return of Ulrich Thomsen's Sinestro, found marooned on a dead world. While this raises further questions, his reappearance provides a significant payoff. The review expresses hope that the series finale will adequately address the numerous lingering plot threads and provide a satisfying conclusion to John's season-long arc, acknowledging that substantial ground remains to be covered.
Overall, "The Jordan Boys Legacy" is credited with rebuilding the show's momentum, successfully restoring the vital Hal/John dynamic and offering compelling new insights into Hal's motivations, suggesting his actions were driven by depression as much as fearlessness. The episode received a score of 8 out of 10.