Buddy-cop drama vs comic book disaster Lanterns review

Superheroes have their share of baggage, and sometimes rebooting an iconic franchise requires a little more grit than the standard comic book fanfare allows. Enter Lanterns, the HBO miniseries that manages to pull back the curtain on the cosmic scale of the DC Universe while refusing to treat its heroes like simplistic playthings. This eight-episode series, overseen by James Gunn and Peter Safran, delivers a surprisingly grounded and mature take on intergalactic law enforcement.

Unlike many recent superhero offerings, Lanterns embraces heavyweight themes. It trades the typical spectacle for complex drama, delving into issues of race, difficult upbringings, and contemporary political parallels. This is not simply a show about magic rings; it is an exploration of what happens when powerful beings face real-world complexities.

At the heart of the series is a fascinating dynamic between two of the Corps’ most significant figures: Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre. Jordan is the seasoned maverick who oversees Earth, while Stewart is the strictly disciplined successor learning to navigate chaos. Their relationship isn’t just based on professional rivalry; it’s a compelling clash between chaotic gut-instinct decision-making and rigid, structured authority. The chemistry between Chandler’s crumpled charisma and Pierre’s steely intensity drives the narrative far beyond surface-level banter.

The structure of the series is equally sophisticated. It moves beyond simple action sequences, employing a time-hopping approach that unfolds with careful intrigue rather than straightforward formula. The story begins with Jordan and Stewart investigating an incident in Rushville, Nebraska, quickly introducing new characters—like Kelly Macdonald’s sheriff—who become crucial to their journey. This narrative choice makes Lanterns feel less like a collection of standalone movie ideas and more like a cohesive, deliberate television series.

While there are action sequences, the visual storytelling wisely avoids excessive carnage. The creators found inventive ways to handle superpowers, focusing instead on building tension. The power ring itself serves as a necessary constraint, ensuring that the stakes feel immediate for characters who possess immense power. There is a palpable sense of Blade Runner-esque paranoia woven into the mysteries and unfolding events.

Lanterns successfully balances the high-concept superheroics with compelling, down-to-earth drama. It offers an exploration of existential dilemmas wrapped in the guise of cosmic conflict, proving that when you explore difficult themes with artistic integrity, you can create something truly impactful. It stands as one of the strongest and most mature entries yet in the burgeoning DC Universe.

‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO MAX, NOW, and Sky Atlantic in the UK.