A polarizing element of Lanterns TV show might just work in its favor to impress avid DC fans. The HBO Max series is part of the DCU and is led by Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, among other notable names.
It’s been revealed that the new TV show deals heavily in the comic book and Green Lantern lore throughout its runtime. In fact, it goes deep into the explanation of various comic book aspects related to the characters, as noted by TV Line‘s review.
While it may not work for everyone, hardcore DC fans are likely to admire and appreciate this particular, yet divisive, element of the DCU show. Simply because most comic book fans love it when a live-action adaptation takes a good chunk of inspiration from the source material.
Critics’ reviews for Lanterns are mostly very positive
It might be a few days away from release, but Lanterns has already managed to receive great word-of-mouth. It becomes clear from its spectacular Tomatometer score of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes at the time of this article’s publication.
Majority of critics are in awe of Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre’s chemistry as Hal Jordan and John Stewart, respectively. For example, Daniel Baptista of The Movie Podcast wrote, “Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler shine brighter than ever in a series that isn’t afraid to take creative risks.”
Similarly, Kathryn VanArendonk of Vulture wrote, “Kyle Chandler’s having a rip-roaring time as sardonic Hal Jordan, and until John Stewart is allowed to loosen up a bit, he carries the series on his shoulders.”
The ensemble cast of the DCU TV series also features Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, Jason Ritter, and Ulrich Thomsen. Nathan Fillion, a familiar face, is back to reprise his role of fellow Green Lantern Guy Gardner.
Back in May, it was revealed that acclaimed actress Laura Linney also joined the cast of the show. She is known for her roles in the MGM+ series American Classic and the documentary series The American Revolution, among others.
Lanterns is set to release on HBO and HBO Max on August 16, 2026.
