‘Lanterns’ finally sets release window at HBO as first trailer teases ‘True Detective’-like mystery
HBO just dropped the first teaser trailer for ‘Lanterns,’ and if this is how the new DC Universe plans to introduce its cosmic cops, buckle up. ‘Lanterns’ focuses on two intergalactic peacekeepers wearing rings that can conjure anything their minds can picture. The first is Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, a seasoned Green Lantern who looks like he’s seen a few too many galaxies burn out. Then there’s John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre, the new recruit. The trailer wastes no time showing the bond between them. The teaser opens with a bang when Hal jumps out of the car as it's heading towards a cliff.
After jumping, he lets the car plunge into open air, forcing John to think fast and tap into the ring’s power before gravity does its job. Afterwards, when John says, “I could’ve died,” Hal replies, “You wanted me to train you. I’m training you.” It’s a bold way to say, welcome to the Corps. For anyone unfamiliar, Green Lanterns are basically cosmic officers armed with emerald rings powered by will. The rings generate hard-light constructs. Be it swords, shields, entire vehicles, or whatever the mind can imagine. But this series isn’t floating in deep space the whole time. It takes place in a small town, where the duo investigates a complicated murder. The teaser hints at something darker lurking behind the murder, something that could threaten more than just one town.
The teaser has less shiny superhero theatrics and more slow-burn investigation with a sci-fi edge. There are quick flashes for longtime fans to savor. These include a glimpse of the Green Lantern suit, the iconic power battery, and the ring glowing like a warning signal in the night. There’s even a nod to Ch’p, the squirrel-like extraterrestrial Lantern that hardcore comic readers will recognize instantly. HBO confirmed the series will premiere in August, with episodes streaming on HBO Max. The exact date remains under wraps, but the month alone is enough to start circling calendars. Meanwhile, Kelly Macdonald plays Kerry, a small-town sheriff who likely did not expect alien rings to complicate her jurisdiction. Nathan Fillion reprises his role as Guy Gardner, previously seen in 'Superman,' and Ulrich Thomsen stars as Sinestro, a former member of the Corps.
Garret Dillahunt steps in as William Macon, described as a modern-day cowboy, while Jason Ritter plays Billy Macon, tied to Kerry’s storyline. Poorna Jagannathan appears as Zoe, and Nicole Ari Parker portrays Bernadette Stewart, John’s mother, which suggests we’ll see more of John’s personal life. The title also stars Sherman Augustus as John Stewart Sr., Paul Ben-Victor as Antaan, an extraterrestrial chasing the truth, Chris Coy as a truck driver, and Cary Christopher as a gifted child named Noah. Laura Linney and Paula Patton also join the cast in unrevealed roles.
