After watching the first episode of Lanterns, DC's latest offering, I came away with a really positive impression. Honestly, I was expecting the standard formula stuffed with CGI intergalactic brawls, but right from minute one, it makes it clear that its foundation is a gritty crime detective thriller—which is right up my alley—with a mature, grounded tone and a slow-burn pace.
I actually did my homework to figure out why they chose this format, especially coming off Supergirl, which couldn't be more different. It turns out the creative team includes Chris Mundy (writer/producer on Ozark), Damon Lindelof (producer on Watchmen), and acclaimed comic book writer Tom King. It makes total sense why Lanterns nails that eerie, small-town Americana vibe right out of the gate, creating an atmosphere ripe with psychological tension thanks to its cinematic DNA.
So far, it's just the first episode, where a crime in a small Nebraska town brings a key group of characters together. Among them is Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler), a veteran Green Lantern showing the heavy wear and tear of a guy who's been in the hero game for way too long. Riding shotgun is John Stewart (Aaron Pierre), whom Hal is supposed to be training as his replacement. But John is the polar opposite of Hal—a disciplined, by-the-book ex-Marine who creates a sharp contrast with his mentor's deep-seated cynicism.
Throughout the entire episode, Green Lantern powers are used maybe once or twice at most, making it clear that the story focuses on character-driven drama and procedural intrigue over flashy superpowers. I really dig this approach of blending a crime thriller with the superhero genre. It might not be groundbreaking, but it delivers a rock-solid first impression and leaves you eager to unravel the mystery, so I'll definitely be back soon with more updates as I progress through the show.
Media from TMBD gallery
Rating: 75/100
Originally posted through scrobble.life/tv.
