Let's dive into the mind-bending world of HBO's "Lanterns" and its shocking twist ending. Personally, I think this show is a bold move for the DC Universe, and the first episode leaves us with more questions than answers, which is an intriguing way to start a series.
The Mystery Unveiled
"Lanterns" wastes no time in delivering a whopper of a twist. The premiere ends with the unexpected death of Hal Jordan, a character many fans know and love. This bombshell not only shocks viewers but also sets the stage for a complex web of mysteries and questions about the DCU.
A Grounded Approach
What makes this series stand out is its grounded nature, drawing inspiration from prestigious dramas like "True Detective" and "Slow Horses." It's a refreshing take on the superhero genre, and the introduction of a central mystery through a murder adds an intriguing layer of complexity.
Timeline Twists
One of the unique aspects of "Lanterns" is its use of three separate timelines: 1996, 2016, and 2026. The show primarily focuses on the 2016 timeline, where we witness the training of John Stewart by Hal Jordan. However, the flash-forward to 2026 reveals a frozen Jordan with a bullet hole, and his Power Ring is missing. This raises immediate questions about Stewart's absence as a Lantern and the identity of the killer.
The Absence of Stewart
In my opinion, Stewart's absence as a Lantern in 2026 is a crucial detail. Despite his training, he doesn't seem to possess the Power Ring, which leads us to wonder about the success of his training and the potential involvement of other Lanterns, like Guy Gardner.
The Suspects
The death of Jordan opens up a can of worms. Who could have killed him and taken his ring? One theory suggests that Guy Gardner, known for his anger issues, might be the villain of the series, especially since he's active as the leader of the "Justice Gang" in the 2025-set "Superman." However, there could be other explanations, such as Gardner obtaining his ring prior to Jordan's death or Jordan leaving Earth to protect another sector.
Implications for the DCU
"Lanterns" is a risky venture for DC, and the first episode showcases this boldness. The suggestion that Earth only has one Green Lantern at a time raises questions about the dynamics of the DCU. Jordan's retelling of how he became a Lantern, chosen by the dying Abin Sur, sets a precedent for a solo protector of sector 2814. So, why wasn't Stewart chosen to replace Jordan? And why is Gardner active as a Lantern in "Superman" if Jordan was still alive?
The Significance of Rushville
A detail that I find especially interesting is the location of Jordan's body. Rushville, where Jordan was chosen and where he and Stewart discovered aliens, holds a significant place in the story. Jordan's words about an impending "s***storm" take on a new meaning with his body found in the same area. It seems that the storm has arrived, and the implications for the DCU are massive.
"Lanterns" is now streaming on HBO Max, and I can't wait to see how these mysteries unfold and the impact they'll have on the DC Universe.
