"Lanterns" explores masculinity and mentorship with superhero twist

HBO Max's "Lanterns" reimagines the iconic Green Lantern character for the small screen, delving into the complexities of masculinity and the generational transfer of power. The eight-episode series, created by Damon Lindelof and Chris Mundy, features Kyle Chandler as a semi-retired Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, a younger hero learning to wield the powerful green ring.

The show deviates from typical superhero narratives by setting its story in Rushville, Nebraska, and blending cosmic elements with a gritty, "True Detective"-esque serial killer investigation. Lindelof described the series as "True Detective with superheroes," drawing parallels to classic Western films that explore the construction of masculinity and the influence of older generations on younger ones.

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At my age (60), I didn't think I'd be invited to be a superhero, but that's fine with me. Playing Jordan certainly has to do with the theme of a man who has to come to terms with being a good mentor to pass the torch to his protégé; but here in Lanterns, my character is very grumpy and reluctant to hand over the ring of power.

Chandler embraces the theme of mentorship, portraying Jordan as a reluctant mentor struggling to pass on his responsibilities. "At my age (60), I didn't think I'd be invited to be a superhero, but that's fine with me," Chandler said. "Playing Jordan certainly has to do with the theme of a man who has to come to terms with being a good mentor to pass the torch to his protégé; but here in Lanterns, my character is very grumpy and reluctant to hand over the ring of power."

Pierre brings a contrasting energy to the series as John Stewart, embodying honesty and emotional openness. "What I like about John Stewart is his honest way of existing and his search for truth," Pierre explained. "He's someone who, unlike Jordan, has no problem feeling his emotions to the fullest and showing them. I studied the comic book character a lot, but the time came when I also showed my own way of being so as not to just seem like I was copying something, but truly living it."

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What I like about John Stewart is his honest way of existing and his search for truth. He's someone who, unlike Jordan, has no problem feeling his emotions to the fullest and showing them. I studied the comic book character a lot, but the time came when I also showed my own way of being so as not to just seem like I was copying something, but truly living it.