James Gunn drops new gritty trailer of Green Lantern series
'Lanterns', starring Hal Jordan and John Stewart, is set to premiere on 16 August on HBO Max
DCU Co-chairman and filmmaker James Gunn has released a gritty new trailer for DC Studios' upcoming series "Lanterns", set to arrive this summer as a fresh live-action take on the Green Lantern mythos of DC Comics.
Starring Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, the series follows the two members of the intergalactic Green Lantern Corps as they investigate a mysterious murder on Earth, blending superhero action with a grounded investigative narrative.
"Lanterns" will premiere on HBO Max on 16 August, said Gunn in his post on different social media platforms sharing the trailer with the catchphrase "Are you afraid?" from the series.
The latest trailer provides a deeper look into the series' tone and world-building, showcasing the Green Lanterns' signature energy constructs and powers, which were largely absent from earlier teasers.
It also highlights the contrasting journeys of its two leads: Jordan, who received his ring by chance after discovering the dying alien Green Lantern Abin Sur, and Stewart, who is determined to earn his place and surpass his predecessor, while Jordan remains unwilling to step aside.
The series also introduces Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, an outspoken and arrogant member of the Corps, reprising his role from "Superman" and "Peacemaker" season 2.
Laura Linney appears in an undisclosed role, adding further intrigue to the expanding cast.
Hints of a larger cosmic threat also emerge in the form of red energy beams, raising speculation about the possible involvement of the Red Lantern Corps, known in the comics for their rage-fuelled powers.
Created by Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof and Tom King, "Lanterns" unfolds across two timelines, one set in 2016 where Hal mentors John during an investigation in rural Nebraska, and another set in 2026 following the events of "Superman".
The dual narrative structure gradually unravels interconnected mysteries while exploring the evolving dynamic between the two heroes.
The supporting cast includes Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry, Garret Dillahunt as William Macon, Poorna Jagannathan as Zoe, Nicole Ari Parker and Sherman Augustus as John's parents, Ulrich Thomsen as Sinestro, and Paul Ben-Victor as Antaan.
The series also establishes continuity within the broader DC Universe, with Pierre set to reprise his role in "Man of Tomorrow".
Described by its creators as a grounded, on-the-ground mystery, "Lanterns" aims to balance cosmic mythology with human drama, using the Green Lantern lore to anchor a character-driven investigation.
