The premiere episode of Lanterns, the new series set to anchor James Gunn and Peter Safran's revamped DC Universe, has arrived, and it offers a strong opening that aims to restore faith in the franchise's future. Debuting on HBO and HBO Max on August 16, the series is one of the initial key projects not directly helmed by Gunn himself, making its success crucial for the burgeoning cinematic universe. While early marketing and creator comments may have raised concerns, the first episode demonstrates that the DCU can thrive under new creative leadership.
The series takes an unexpected turn by focusing on an Earth-based murder mystery rather than immediately diving into the cosmic adventures often associated with the Green Lanterns. This approach, reminiscent of shows like True Detective and Slow Horses, might disappoint purists seeking unadulterated, comic-book-accurate spectacle. The live-action Green Lantern suit itself is described as somewhat clunky, and the series generally favors a more grounded, stylized aesthetic over budget-busting special effects.
However, for viewers open to its premise, Lanterns succeeds by blending superhero drama with a terrestrial whodunit. The core of the first episode lies in the dynamic between Kyle Chandler's grizzled veteran Hal Jordan and his trainee, John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre. Their relationship is immediately contentious, with Hal acting hostile and standoffish towards John, who is eager for the ring but has little patience for his superior's antics. This central conflict, explored through sharp dialogue and palpable tension, forms the emotional backbone of the episode.
Both Chandler and Pierre deliver pitch-perfect performances. Chandler embodies a Hal Jordan who has spent decades in the DCU, conveying a palpable weariness, paranoia, and overconfidence. Pierre brings a quiet, no-nonsense charisma to John Stewart, showcasing a reserved yet determined character who burns with a desire for the Green Lantern ring despite the challenges posed by Hal. The series also touches upon the racial undertones of their dynamic, with John's father reminding him that a Black man must prove his worth in ways a white counterpart like Hal might not need to. This acknowledgment adds a layer of depth, referencing John Stewart's historical significance in diversifying the DC comic book universe.
The supporting cast also makes a strong impression. Kelly Macdonald plays Kerry, the no-nonsense sheriff of the small town of Rushville, Nebraska, where the investigation unfolds. Her relationship with Hal Jordan is a source of enjoyable friction, filled with bickering over jurisdiction and subtle flirtation. Garret Dillahunt appears as William Macon, a charming yet unsettling local ranch tycoon involved in the mystery, while Poorna Jagannathan plays Zoe, another Rushville native who forms a bond with John, allowing for further exploration of his character.
While the murder mystery serves as a plot catalyst, it's the intricate character interactions and developing relationships that truly elevate the premiere. The episode concludes with a significant twist, intended to be controversial and hint at a larger, more ambitious scope for the series. This reveal, combined with the unique premise of Green Lanterns interacting with small-town life, sets a compelling stage for the rest of the season, suggesting that Lanterns is poised to be a critical return to form for the DCU.