HBO's 'Lanterns' Blends Superhero Lore with Police Procedural Tropes
HBO’s new series, Lanterns, initially presents a surprising premise. While undeniably centered around the Green Lanterns—DC Comics superheroes and intergalactic law enforcement utilizing magical rings powered by willpower, fearlessness, and imagination—the show leans heavily into the aesthetics of a prestige police procedural.
A Maverick and a Marine in Rural Nebraska
The series follows Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler), a seasoned and somewhat rebellious Green Lantern, and his trainee, John Stewart (Aaron Pierre), a disciplined Marine. Their partnership unfolds in rural Nebraska in 2016, a setting where the existence of aliens is accepted, yet largely ignored by the local populace. The local sheriff (Kerry McDonald) is eager to see them leave, but the duo is investigating a murder at a high school football game with possible extraterrestrial connections.
Some might view the show's setting as a convenient device to disguise itself as a more mature television offering while attempting to revitalize the superhero genre. While dedicated comic fans may recall N. K. Jemisin’s Far Sector, a broader audience might still associate Green Lantern with the less-than-stellar 2011 film starring Ryan Reynolds.
A Frankenstein Approach to Superhero Television
Lanterns adopts a 'Frankenstein' approach, drawing inspiration from shows like True Detective, Yellowstone, Ozark, Mare of Easttown, and even Friday Night Lights. This is a calculated risk, but it also functions as a 'cheat code' to make the DC Studios' new direction feel more valuable. Ultimately, Lanterns is a superhero show that is as engaging as anything else airing on HBO on Sunday nights.
The first episode, simply titled “Pilot,” benefits from the dynamic between Chandler and Pierre, who breathe fresh life into the familiar buddy-cop formula. The show echoes classics like Lethal Weapon, 48 Hrs., and Men in Black. Chandler's delivery of DC-specific terminology with a distinct Texas drawl, combined with Pierre’s strong performance—previously showcased in Rebel Ridge—make the series worthwhile.