The new DC series Lanterns premieres on HBO on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in the US and on August 17 in the UK, and it delivers a compelling blend of sci-fi thriller and character-driven drama that has earned high praise from critics.
Set in the DC Universe (DCU), Lanterns follows two Green Lanterns—space cops armed with powerful rings—as they investigate a mysterious mass shooting in Rushville, Nebraska. The show stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, a cocksure veteran who plays by his own rules, and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, a new recruit whose strict adherence to protocol contrasts sharply with his partner's approach. Their investigation quickly uncovers an extraterrestrial conspiracy far darker than they imagined.
Why Lanterns Stands Out in the DCU
The DCU has had a mixed start, with Superman soaring while Supergirl underperformed. However, the small-screen offerings have been more consistent. Creature Commandos impressed with its weird confidence, and Peacemaker season 2 entertained without dazzling. Lanterns continues this trend, delivering a show that is both sophisticated and entertaining.
Deputy TV editor Tom Percival, reviewing the first seven episodes, praised the show's use of contrast and juxtaposition. The maverick Hal and by-the-book John, the alien planets versus Nebraska's empty plains, and the grand alien invasion plot against the relatable local issues all contribute to a central theme about difference and shared desires for safety, family, respect, or power. Percival noted it's "surprisingly sophisticated for a show about men with magic rings."
Mystery, Cast, and Comparisons to True Detective
The central mystery is intriguing, and the show's pacing benefits from binge-watching, especially in episodes three, five, and seven. However, while Lanterns has clear True Detective DNA, it doesn't reach that show's masterpiece status. Percival explains, "True Detective is a masterpiece, and Lanterns is very, very good; it's just that they're doing different things." The show leans into space lasers, ring-slinging, and nods to Green Lantern lore, making it more action-packed and fun than a "grown-up show."
The cast is a major highlight. Garret Dillahunt plays the chief antagonist, and Kelly Macdonald's American accent is so convincing that Percival didn't recognize her until episode 2. But the show belongs to Chandler and Pierre. Chandler is "sensational" as the weary, sardonic Hal, revealing a broken man beneath the bravado. Pierre makes the taciturn John relatable and likeable, proving his star power after his role in Rebel Ridge.
Verdict: A Near-Perfect Superhero Show
Lanterns may not be True Detective, but it doesn't need to be. It's a near-perfect superhero show, worthy of comparison to The Penguin, Loki, and WandaVision. It's funny, exciting, and has enough emotional depth to satisfy adult viewers. As Percival puts it, "Lantern's much better than just alright!"
The show airs on HBO and HBO Max in the US on August 16, and on HBO Max in the UK on August 17.
