Lanterns has viewers hooked after just one episode, with the new DC mystery thriller earning a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score and comparisons to True Detective. Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler lead the series as John Stewart and Hal Jordan, two Green Lanterns investigating a disturbing crime in a small town that may be connected to something far beyond Earth. Fans are already praising the writing, cinematography, performances and especially the chemistry between the two leads — with some calling the premiere “absolute perfection” and “insane.” And with new episodes arriving weekly, the mystery is only beginning.

by

‘Lanterns’ Has Fans Glued to the Screen After a Mystery-Filled Premiere

DC’s latest series Lanterns has made a strong first impression, with viewers already describing the new mystery thriller as “absolute perfection” after just one episode.

Although the series is part of the DC Universe and draws directly from the Green Lantern comics, its crime-driven story has quickly caught the attention of viewers who enjoy murder mysteries and atmospheric dramas such as True Detective.

The first episode is now available, with new installments arriving weekly. Based on the early reaction, many viewers are already counting down to the next chapter.

Kelly Macdonald in Lanterns

A Green Lantern story with a crime mystery at its center

Lanterns follows two of the most recognizable characters from the comics: John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre, and Hal Jordan, portrayed by Kyle Chandler.

Hal Jordan currently carries the power ring and serves as a Green Lantern, while John joins him as a protégé in training. Their partnership soon takes them far beyond the traditional superhero story, as the two investigate a serious crime in a small town.

What initially appears to be a local case may have a much larger connection, potentially involving alien beings.

That combination of superhero mythology and a grounded mystery has become one of the aspects viewers are responding to most strongly.

Kyle Chandler in Lanterns

The ‘True Detective’ influence is already being noticed

The series was co-created by Chris Mundy, who has previously worked on episodes of True Detective. That connection has not gone unnoticed among critics and viewers, with comparisons between the two shows emerging almost immediately.

So far, Lanterns has earned a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, adding to the positive response surrounding its debut.

Viewers have also praised the show’s acting, dialogue, pacing, cinematography and the developing relationship between its two central characters.

What is the release date and launch time for Lanterns episode 4 on HBO Max? | TechRadar

One viewer wrote that they were “glued to the screen,” praising the casting and saying the series finally gave them a show they were excited to watch each week.

Another said that, despite being only one episode into the story, they were already hooked, highlighting the humor, visual style, performances and compelling scenes.

Fans are already demanding the next episode

J Alphonse Nicholson in Lanterns

The enthusiastic reaction is particularly notable given the mixed reception surrounding some previous DC projects. Before Lanterns premiered, there was uncertainty over how audiences would respond.

For many viewers, however, the opening episode exceeded expectations.

One fan described the premiere as “absolute perfection,” while another singled out Kyle Chandler’s performance as Hal Jordan and said the stakes already appeared to be much higher than expected.

Others praised the chemistry between Hal and John, with one viewer calling their dynamic “incredible” and highlighting the episode’s dialogue and pacing.

Another reaction summed up the excitement more simply, describing the first episode as “insane” and praising its writing, cinematography and visual effects.

With the mystery only beginning and new episodes arriving weekly, Lanterns has already given fans plenty of reasons to keep watching.