Why the DCU’s Lanterns Show Is Already Dividing Fans

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We’re now getting a first glimpse of Lanterns, the next TV series in the DC Universe. James Gunn’s Superman reboot was a hit with both critics and audiences (scoring 83% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and a remarkable 90% from viewers!). However, this DC Universe will stand out from other franchises by allowing each director and showrunner to create their own unique style and tone, a direction Gunn actively encourages.

The initial trailer for Lanterns immediately establishes its distinct departure from Superman. Developed by Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, the series boasts a unique style. Unlike the bright, vibrant Green Lantern costume seen in Supergirl, only a brief, muted glimpse is offered here. Instead of a grand space opera, Lanterns appears to be a tightly focused, small-town mystery centered around the conflicting personalities of Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre). However, the trailer has sharply divided fans, and this reaction is more than just typical online debate – there are legitimate reasons behind the strong opinions.

Some Fans Are Won Over By the Casting & the Stars

Many viewers are already looking forward to HBO’s Lanterns because of the incredibly talented team behind it. Damon Lindelof, known for complex and mysterious shows like Lost, The Leftovers, and Watchmen, is a highly respected creator, and it’s exciting to see him tackle a superhero series within the new DC Universe. The show has also attracted a fantastic cast, and the initial trailer understandably highlighted the characters played by Chandler and Pierre. Chandler, in particular, has received a lot of positive attention, with many believing he perfectly embodies the classic Hal Jordan.

Kyle Chandler looks like he hides a power ring in his pocket.

— NotACritic (@mynameisdijon) March 4, 2026

Aaron Pierre delivers a compelling performance as John Stewart, though his portrayal differs somewhat from the comic book character. In the original comics, Stewart was hesitant and insecure when first becoming a Green Lantern, feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility and initially unaware of the previous Lantern’s identity – which led to humorous moments when he questioned why test pilot Hal Jordan suggested him. As he put it in Green Lantern #188, he felt like a backup player, only meant to fill in until the original returned. This new John Stewart in the DC Universe, however, is much more driven and assertive, creating significant tension and drama with Hal Jordan.

But This Isn’t A Traditional Green Lantern Story

What always stood out to me about Green Lantern comics, especially the ones I read as a kid, was how bright and colorful they were. The Green Lantern universe consistently delivers the most visually stunning and imaginative artwork in superhero comics today.

— Dakota Lopez, Timeline Observer (@geekritique_dak) March 4, 2026

However, many longtime fans of the Green Lantern comics were disappointed by the trailer. These comics are known for their stunning visuals and epic, space-based adventures. The trailer for the new series, though, presents a much more down-to-earth story, set in a small town, and offers only quick flashes of superpowers. Even a scene of Hal Jordan flying lacks the iconic emerald-green glow traditionally associated with Green Lantern’s flight.

Most fans reacting to the show so far think it looks good as a TV series, but doesn’t really feel like a Green Lantern adaptation. The muted colors of the suit might fit the story, but it also feels like a sign that the show isn’t living up to its full potential. Some viewers are drawing comparisons to the early X-Men films, which were made before studios were confident in superhero movies and therefore avoided anything too outlandish or visually impressive. While the trailer does briefly reference a Lantern who’s a chipmunk – a nod to the broader DC universe – the show seems hesitant to fully embrace that side of things.

The trailer suggests the conflict will become much larger, showing destroyed buildings that imply Hal and John will face a powerful enemy – one that can challenge even two Green Lanterns. While HBO intentionally kept the plot details vague, choosing to highlight the connection between Hal and John as the story’s core, some viewers were disappointed by the lack of action revealed. Interestingly, HBO has publicly addressed and even responded to some of these criticisms.

What do you mean there’s no green?

— HBO Max (@hbomax) March 5, 2026

Okay, so I just watched the first trailer for Lanterns, and I think HBO nailed it. It definitely gives you a feel for what to expect from this new Lindelof series – we meet the main characters and get a sense of what’s driving the conflict. As a comic book fan, I appreciated that it signals this isn’t going to be your standard Green Lantern story. But honestly, it’s just a teaser! Knowing Lindelof, things are going to ramp up fast – those quick shots of destruction feel like a promise of way bigger things to come, and I’m already hooked.

What are your thoughts on the Lanterns trailer? Share your opinion in the comments and discuss it with other fans in the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-05 18:44