Lanterns

Lanterns, the new DCU series available on HBO Max starting August 17, 2026, represents a bold departure for the superhero genre, shaping itself as a noir-tinged investigative thriller. Under the creative guidance of Damon Lindelof, Chris Mundy, and Tom King, and directed by James Hawes for the first episode, the series follows Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart, played by Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre respectively, as they investigate a mysterious case in Nebraska. Closer in tone to the dark atmospheres of True Detective than a traditional space opera, the narrative unfolds across multiple timelines, culminating in a twist that upends the dynamics between the two protagonists.

This mature, character-study-focused approach, endorsed by supervisor James Gunn, aims to revitalize the franchise with a hybrid and adult-oriented narrative proposal.