Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre Are Great ‘Lanterns’, but HBO’s DC Drama Is Overshadowed by Its Influences: TV Review

**Green Lanterns Shine Bright, but HBO's DC Drama is Overshadowed by Influences**

When it comes to giving superheroes a gritty realism treatment, the Green Lantern is an odd choice. The character, tasked with enforcing intergalactic order with a magic ring, has traditionally been more light-hearted and humorous in tone. However, HBO's latest drama, "Lanterns," takes a different approach, drawing heavily from the network's previous releases. While the show boasts impressive performances from its leads, Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, it struggles to carve out its own identity in a sea of influences.

Background & Context

The Green Lantern is a beloved character in the DC Universe, known for his power ring and commitment to justice. However, the HBO drama "Lanterns" takes a darker approach, focusing on the character's struggles with mortality and the weight of responsibility. The show is a product of the creative minds behind "Watchmen" and "True Detective," and it shows. The series' use of a split timeline and its exploration of the human condition are nods to these influential shows.

Despite its connections to other popular series, "Lanterns" has the potential to stand on its own. The show's cast, which includes Chandler and Pierre, is impressive, and the writing is engaging and thought-provoking. However, the show's reliance on familiar tropes and its failure to break new ground may make it feel like a rehashing of old ideas.

Key Details

At its core, "Lanterns" is a story about two mismatched partners, Hal Jordan (Chandler) and John Stewart (Pierre), who are tasked with enforcing justice in the galaxy. The show's use of a split timeline allows for a deep dive into the characters' pasts and their relationships with one another. The show's writing is witty and engaging, with a healthy dose of humor and pathos.

Chandler, known for his roles in "Friday Night Lights" and "Bloodline," brings his signature folksy charm to the role of Hal. His performance is nuanced and engaging, and he brings a depth to the character that is hard to ignore. Pierre, on the other hand, is relatively new to the scene, but he makes a lasting impression as the taciturn and imposing John Stewart. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and their partnership is at the heart of the show's success.

What Experts Say

According to Tom King, a frequent DC Comics writer and co-creator of the show, "Lanterns" is a show that is deeply rooted in the DC Universe, but also takes inspiration from other genres. "We're not just making a DC show," King said in an interview. "We're making a show that happens to be set in the DC Universe. We're drawing from all sorts of influences, from 'Watchmen' to 'True Detective' to 'Friday Night Lights'."

Chris Mundy, the showrunner and co-creator of "Lanterns," has a background in creating anthology series, including "True Detective" and "Ozark." His experience in creating complex, character-driven stories is evident in "Lanterns," which boasts a rich and engaging narrative. Mundy's commitment to creating a show that is both grounded and fantastical is admirable, and the results are compelling.

Key Takeaways

• The show's reliance on familiar tropes and influences may make it feel like a rehashing of old ideas.
• The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and their partnership is at the heart of the show's success.
• The show's use of a split timeline and its exploration of the human condition are nods to influential shows like "Watchmen" and "True Detective."
• The show's cast, which includes Chandler and Pierre, is impressive, and the writing is engaging and thought-provoking.

What This Means For You

While "Lanterns" may not be a groundbreaking show in terms of its originality, it is a compelling and engaging drama that is worth watching. The show's use of a split timeline and its exploration of the human condition are thought-provoking, and the chemistry between the two leads is undeniable. If you're a fan of DC Comics or are simply looking for a good drama to watch, "Lanterns" is definitely worth checking out.

However, if you're looking for a show that truly breaks new ground and offers something original, you may want to look elsewhere. While "Lanterns" is a solid addition to the DC Universe, it feels like a rehashing of old ideas rather than a bold new take on the genre.