HBO Lanterns review: Gritty reboot delivers unique twist on superhero genre
Critics praise the new DC series for its realistic tone and strong performances, calling it a standout entry in the rebooted universe.
Key points
- The series features two timelines, including a 2016 mass shooting investigation and a 2026 murder mystery involving Hal Jordan.
- Reviewers highlight the show's departure from typical superhero tropes in favor of a gritty, realistic narrative style.
- The plot centers on Hal Jordan and John Stewart hunting a rogue Manhunter while navigating complex personal and professional dynamics.
HBO’s new DC Universe series, Lanterns, has received positive critical reception for its gritty realism and creative approach to the superhero genre. According to a review by Ars Technica, the show eschews typical superhero hijinks for a tone more akin to True Detective or Slow Horses. The series wrapped its season with an emotionally charged finale that delivered on its initial promise of a darker, more grounded narrative.
The review emphasizes that Lanterns stands out as a beacon for what is possible when creators are allowed to experiment within the genre. While the rebooted DC Universe films have been described as enjoyable but forgettable, this series offers a more substantial and memorable experience. The reviewer advises audiences to ignore negative review bombing, stating that the show is wonderful and successfully balances its unique themes with strong character development.
Plot and Narrative Structure
The series operates across two primary storylines set in different years. The first timeline takes place in 2016 and begins with a mass shooting at a football game in Rushville, Nebraska. Current Green Lantern Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and his trainee John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre, become involved in the investigation. Sheriff Kerry Kane, portrayed by Kelly Macdonald, initially resists their involvement, believing the case lacks extraterrestrial connections until the suspect self-detonates.
Hal and John discover the suspect was part of an alien group surviving a genocide committed by the Manhunters. These beings were created by the Guardians of the Universe as a precursor to the Lantern Corps but rebelled and were mostly destroyed. A sole survivor hides in Rushville, and the alien leader Antaan gives the Lanterns 48 hours to find the Manhunter or face the destruction of the town.
Character Dynamics and Themes
The second storyline jumps to 2026, focusing on the murder of Hal Jordan, who returned to Rushville as a social pariah after the events of 2016. This mystery drives the second half of the series, with Stewart teaming up with Sheriff Kane to solve the crime. Showrunner Chris Mundy has stated that a major theme is deciding when to step aside and let a replacement take over, reflected in the relationship between Hal and John.
The cast receives high praise for their performances, with Chandler and Pierre providing substantial material for their roles. The series explores the push and pull of their mentor-student dynamic while maintaining a serious, investigative tone. The narrative avoids standard superhero conventions, focusing instead on the emotional and procedural aspects of the characters' lives and duties.
What should you do?
Readers interested in the DC Universe can watch the series on HBO to experience this unique take on the Lantern Corps. Fans of gritty, realistic dramas may find the show's tone more appealing than traditional superhero films. Those concerned about review bombing should rely on critical consensus rather than aggregate user scores.
What to do and how to stay safe: HBO
- Watch the series on HBO to evaluate the narrative and performances firsthand.
- Compare the show's tone to other gritty dramas like True Detective to gauge personal interest.
- Ignore negative user reviews that may be part of coordinated review bombing campaigns.
- Follow updates from HBO regarding future seasons or related DC Universe projects.
Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main plot of HBO's Lanterns?
The series follows Hal Jordan and John Stewart investigating a mass shooting in 2016 and Hal's murder in 2026, while hunting a rogue Manhunter.
How does the show differ from other superhero series?
It adopts a gritty, realistic tone similar to True Detective, focusing on procedural investigation and character dynamics rather than typical superhero action.
Who are the main actors in the series?
Kyle Chandler plays Hal Jordan, Aaron Pierre plays John Stewart, and Kelly Macdonald plays Sheriff Kerry Kane.
