I’m not really into traumatic superhero stories, but Lanterns had me in its grip
The article is a review of the HBO Max series 'Lanterns,' which explores the psychological and emotional challenges faced by Green Lantern characters. The reviewer, Jared Richards, discusses the dynamic between two main characters, John Stewart and Hal Jordan, highlighting their contrasting personalities and backgrounds. John, a Black man with a traumatic past, struggles with fear and emotional suppression, while Hal, a seasoned Lantern, exhibits arrogance and smarminess. The show delves into themes of fear, power, and intergalactic colonialism, using the characters' interactions to examine deeper societal issues. Despite initial reservations about trauma-driven superhero narratives, the reviewer finds the series compelling, appreciating its balance of humor, action, and emotional depth.
Nathan Fillion, the actor best known for his roles as Mal Reynolds in Firefly and John Nolan in The Rookie, is stepping into a new realm with his portrayal of Green Lantern Guy Gardner in the HBO Max series Lanterns. The show, which premiered on August 17, 2026, marks a departure from Fillion’s usual character archetypes, smart, introspective outsiders, and instead positions him as an abrasive, unfiltered superhero. Despite his reputation for playing likable, clever protagonists, Fillion describes Guy Gardner as “less complicated” and “overly simplified.” He admits that if one were to interact with the character in real life, they might “wish he were a little smarter.” Guy Gardner, a member of the Green Lantern Corps, was originally conceived in 1968 by writers John Broome and artist Gil Kane. First appearing in Green Lantern #59, the character was designed as an aggressive, hot-headed figure with a rough upbringing. Raised by an abusive father and overshadowed by a more successful older brother, Gardner’s backstory includes a ruined football career due to injury. This grounded, often unlikable origin sets him apart from more traditional superheroes like Hal Jordan or John Stewart, whose stories emphasize heroism and intellect. In the context of modern superhero storytelling, Gardner represents a unique challenge. Unlike the polished, well-adjusted heroes of earlier decades, he embodies raw emotion and flawed humanity. Fillion, reflecting on the evolution of comic book narratives, notes that audiences today are “more intelligent,” capable of engaging with complex, psychologically rich characters. He compares this shift to the transformation of Batman from a simple hero to a potentially unstable figure, suggesting that Gardner’s unrefined nature aligns with contemporary expectations for authenticity in superhero media. Lanterns, an eight-episode series developed by writer Chris Mundy and executive producer Damon Lindelof, explores these themes in depth. The show centers on the relationship between two Green Lanterns, Hal Jordan, portrayed by Kyle Chandler, and John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre. Their dynamic is shaped by contrasting personalities and backgrounds, with Stewart’s traumatic past informing his stoic demeanor. The series delves into the psychological toll of being a superhero, examining how fear becomes both a weapon and a burden. The Green Lantern Corps’ power rings, which operate based on mental discipline, serve as a metaphor for the internal struggles of its members. While Fillion’s role as Guy Gardner is brief compared to his previous television work, the character’s presence in Lanterns is notable. In a pivotal scene, he reappears as an abrasive yet compelling figure, embodying the chaotic energy that defined his comic book origins. His interactions with the other Lanterns highlight the tension between tradition and individuality within the Green Lantern universe. The show also pays homage to the character’s roots, featuring the Green Lantern Corps’ nemesis, a recurring antagonist from the comics. Beyond the narrative, Lanterns stands out for its production quality. The series features crisp visuals and a dark, moody aesthetic that complements its psychological tone. Critics have praised the balance between action sequences and emotional depth, noting that the show manages to maintain its intensity without sacrificing accessibility. Reviews suggest that while the early episodes may feel slow or off-putting, the show gradually builds momentum, offering a rewarding experience for viewers willing to engage with its layered storytelling. As the series continues to air on HBO Max, it remains to be seen whether Fillion’s portrayal of Guy Gardner will resonate with audiences beyond the superhero fanbase. With its focus on psychological realism and character-driven drama, Lanterns represents a bold experiment in superhero storytelling, one that may redefine how audiences perceive the genre moving forward.
★
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