Lanterns Review: A Risky Bet for DC, or a Fresh Take on Superhero Drama?
Lanterns, an HBO Max series, is a bold attempt by DC Studios to reboot their universe, blending the crime drama of True Detective with the superhero commentary of Watchmen. The show's premise revolves around the Green Lanterns, a pair of B-tier heroes, and their journey to win over skeptical audiences.
The Grounded Approach
Lanterns takes a calculated risk by focusing on character and story, rather than spectacle. This approach is evident in the early world-building efforts, where the show carefully considers the amount of superhero action, treating the characters as human beings first. The benefits of this strategy are immediate, as the contentious relationship between Hal Jordan and John Stewart is established within minutes.
The Hal Jordan/John Stewart Dynamic
The show's strength lies in the dynamic between Hal Jordan and John Stewart, played by Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, respectively. Chandler brings a world-weary energy to the complex role of Hal Jordan, a walking disaster who blurs the lines of what makes a hero. Pierre, on the other hand, embodies internalized fury and quiet physicality, creating a compelling contrast.
Flipping the Script on Comic Book Conventions
Lanterns flips the script on comic book conventions, focusing on the relationship between power and opportunity. The show's exploration of the Green Lanterns' concept of fearlessness in extreme circumstances is a refreshing take on a retro comic book trope. The writers seamlessly bridge the gap between the DC Universe and our world, making the show a fascinating snapshot of our current moment in time.
Relevance and Impact
Lanterns' relevance is evident in its exploration of themes such as fear, race, and gender. The show sets an incredibly high bar for itself and for any superhero adaptations to follow, suggesting that stripping away spectacle and focusing on introspective character journeys can be a way forward. However, the show's success will depend on how viewers respond and how well the finale brings the story to a close.
A Shining Light or a Last Gasp?
Lanterns could be a shining light for future superhero adaptations, but it could also prove why this subgenre is on its last legs. The show's bold swings are either considered clever or controversial, and its success will depend on how well it lives up to the expectations and preconceptions of fans.
