‘Lanterns’ Trailer: HBO/DCU Series Stars Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler

HBO’s “Lanterns” follows intergalactic law enforcers Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) as they investigate a murder in rural Nebraska. On-paper, that sounds great, until you realize that it’s a DCU project.

This DC limited series, described as having “gritty True Detective energy,” has released its first trailer ahead of its August premiere.

The footage emphasizes the evolving partnership between Hal and John. In one striking early moment, Hal drives a car off a cliff, forcing John to rely on both his wits and his emerging Green Lantern powers to survive — a nod to the comic book origins. The trailer also offers quick glimpses of the iconic Green Lantern costume, power ring, and battery, along with a cameo of Ch’p, the squirrel-like alien member of the Green Lantern Corps.

For decades, the Green Lantern brand has been associated with CGI-heavy visuals, aliens, and comic book spectacle — not to mention the widely panned Ryan Reynolds movie. “Lanterns” deliberately subverts that expectation, keeping much of the story grounded and tense, enhanced by the eerie strains of Springsteen’s “State Trooper.” Only later does the series lean into the more fantastical elements, with Pierre soaring through the skies in full superhero mode.

Chris Mundy co-created the series alongside Damon Lindelof (Watchmen) and Tom King (Supergirl). James Hawes (The Amateur) directs the first two episodes, while Stephen Williams (Watchmen, Lost), Geeta Vasant Patel (Meet the Patels), and Alik Sakharov (The Ends Beginning) handle the remaining episodes.

Aaron Pierre secured the pivotal role following his breakout turn in Jeremy Saulnier’s “Rebel Ridge.” After seeing his performance in that film, it’s clear he’s a talent to watch. Whether “Lanterns” fully showcases his range remains to be seen.