HBO has unveiled the first teaser for its highly anticipated DC series, “Lanterns,” showcasing the Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart, played by Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, respectively. Although HBO initially planned to debut the teaser on Thursday, they promptly released it ahead of schedule due to an early leak on social media. The series is expected to premiere in August.
In a departure from traditional superhero narratives, “Lanterns” is set to follow Jordan and Stewart as they delve into a mystery reminiscent of “True Detective.” Hal Jordan, an experienced member of the Green Lantern Corps, takes on the role of mentor to his younger partner, John Stewart. The teaser emphasizes a moody atmosphere rather than the vibrant energy often associated with superhero tales, with the Green Lanterns appearing more like detectives than colorful heroes.
Accompanying the visuals is Bruce Springsteen’s haunting song “State Trooper,” cleverly alluding to the law enforcement-esque duties of the Green Lantern Corps. As protectors of Earth, Jordan and Stewart are responsible for overseeing Sector 2814, one of the many areas the Corps patrols across the universe, with their operations based on the distant planet Oa.
Fans also get their first glimpse of the Lanterns’ attire in the teaser. The costumes present a more subdued aesthetic, featuring a jacket in faded green tones rather than the conventional bright green-and-black superhero suits. This design draws inspiration from Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko’s “Green Lantern: Earth One,” a graphic novel series known for its grounded retelling of the Green Lantern’s origin.
The creative team behind “Lanterns” includes Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and DC Comics veteran Tom King, with Mundy serving as the showrunner. With its unique blend of mystery and superhero elements, “Lanterns” aims to offer a fresh take on the Green Lantern legacy when it premieres on HBO this August.