‘Lanterns’ Offers a Fresh Take on Superhero Drama

4 min read

DC’s latest series, ‘Lanterns,’ is making waves in the superhero genre by offering a refreshing take on the genre that has long been seen as creatively exhausted. The show, which stars Kyle Chandler as veteran Green Lantern Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as his trainee John Stewart, is a noir detective mystery that blends superhero elements with a grounded, atmospheric narrative. Unlike many superhero films and TV shows that rely on spectacle and action, ‘Lanterns’ takes a more restrained approach, focusing on character development and a slow-burn mystery that unfolds over two timelines: 2016 and 2026.

A Fractured Timeline and a Haunting Atmosphere

The series is set in the fictional town of Rushville, Nebraska, where a mass shooting at a high-school football game sets off a chain of events that pulls Hal and John into an investigation. The show’s narrative structure, inspired by Faulkner’s modernist style, uses a fractured chronology to explore how the past shapes the present. This approach gives the series a distinct sense of mystery, with the past lingering like a shadow over the characters’ current lives.

One of the show’s greatest strengths is its atmospheric storytelling. The cinematography lingers on empty highways, dive bars, football fields, motels, and the vast Midwestern landscape, creating an eerie, almost haunting mood. This tone is maintained throughout the series, with the supernatural elements of the story only revealed gradually, allowing the audience to experience the mystery alongside the characters.

Characters and Chemistry

Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre deliver strong performances as Hal Jordan and John Stewart, respectively. Chandler’s Hal is a weathered veteran, a man who has seen too much and has little patience for the mistakes of his younger counterpart. Pierre’s John, on the other hand, is a trainee who is both respected and frustrated by his mentor’s condescending attitude. Their dynamic is central to the show, with Hal’s gruff wisdom and John’s growing confidence creating a compelling narrative arc.

Hal’s character is defined by his pragmatism and his belief in the Green Lantern ring as a dangerous weapon. He often reminds John that the ring is not just a tool but a responsibility, and that its use must be weighed carefully. This philosophy is tested as the investigation unfolds, with Hal’s instinct for danger proving correct as the series progresses.

Racial Tensions and Parental Influence

John Stewart’s backstory adds depth to the series, particularly in the exploration of his parents’ influence on his life. His father, who was considered for the Green Lantern ring, answered honestly when asked if he was afraid, a moment that had a profound impact on John. His mother, Bernadette, is a character who challenges the status quo, lecturing a blue extraterrestrial on American racial politics. She argues that asking a Black man in America if he’s afraid is inherently unfair, a perspective that reflects the broader racial tensions in the series.

John’s parents, while well-meaning, are also deeply flawed. They condition John against fear, isolate him, and sometimes place him in dangerous situations to test his resilience. This upbringing explains John’s emotional detachment and his eventual rebellion against the control his parents exert over his life. His parents’ actions, while misguided, are rooted in a desire for his success, which makes his eventual defiance feel both earned and tragic.

Manhunters and the Threat of the Unknown

The series’ strongest stretch comes when Hal and John uncover the presence of the Manhunters, an ancient race of dangerous androids. The Manhunters have been operating in Rushville for years, using their miraculous abilities to heal and protect the town. This revelation adds a sinister dimension to the mystery, as the extent of their influence becomes clear. The Manhunters’ presence is a constant threat, and their ability to cultivate loyalty among the townspeople makes them a formidable enemy.

Hal’s decision to engage the Manhunters is justified by the series, as their presence poses an intolerable threat. Their alien weaponry and embedded influence in the town make them a clear danger, and Hal’s actions, while contributing to a catastrophic outcome, are ultimately necessary. The series acknowledges the moral complexity of this situation, highlighting the difficult choices that come with duty and responsibility.

A Mature Take on Superhero Storytelling

‘Lanterns’ succeeds by using the Green Lantern mythology to explore deeper themes such as fear, duty, legacy, and institutional authority. Unlike many superhero stories that rely on action and spectacle, this series focuses on the human elements of its characters, making it a mature and thoughtful addition to the genre. The show’s restraint in storytelling and its willingness to explore complex themes without sacrificing character development is a refreshing change for the superhero genre.

For DC, the success of ‘Lanterns’ offers a clear lesson: superhero stories should be built around compelling characters, rich narratives, and atmospheric storytelling rather than formulaic action. The series proves that the superhero genre can still surprise and engage audiences when it moves beyond the usual tropes and embraces a more nuanced approach to storytelling.

Source: Daily Wire