HBO's Lanterns TV Series Director Spills Exciting Details on the Grounded Green Lantern Show

HBO's Lanterns TV series director, James Hawes, recently shared thrilling insights about the upcoming DC Universe show in a conversation with Brandon Davis of That Hashtag Show.

The series, set to star Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, promises a unique blend of gritty detective drama and intergalactic superhero action.

Hawes, known for his work on Slow Horses, revealed how Lanterns will balance its sci-fi roots with a grounded, character-driven narrative, making it a must-watch for both Green Lantern fans and newcomers when it premieres on HBO in early 2026.

What Makes Lanterns a Unique Green Lantern Story?

James Hawes emphasized that Lanterns takes a fresh approach to the Green Lantern mythos, focusing on a terrestrial-based police mystery rather than a cosmic spectacle.

In his chat with Brandon Davis, Hawes noted that the series fits seamlessly with his preference for grounded storytelling, akin to his work on Slow Horses.

He described Lanterns as a show that “works within a physical world that we’ve come to know,” ensuring the sci-fi elements feel natural without needing an “extra sprinkle of sci-fi fairy dust.”

This approach aims to make the series accessible to viewers unfamiliar with Green Lantern lore while satisfying long-time fans.

How Will Lanterns Balance Sci-Fi and Realism?

Hawes assured fans that Lanterns won’t skimp on the “sci-fi magic” that defines the Green Lantern Corps. He told Davis that the show introduces its characters in a “rooted way” before expanding into “intergalactic” territory.

This gradual build allows viewers to connect with Hal Jordan, a veteran Lantern, and John Stewart, a new recruit, as they investigate a murder in the American heartland.

The director’s vision aligns with showrunner Chris Mundy’s goal of creating a layered drama that explores the characters both in and out of uniform, drawing tonal inspiration from True Detective and Slow Horses.

Who Are the Key Players in Lanterns?

The series boasts a stellar cast, with Kyle Chandler playing the legendary Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as the rookie John Stewart. Hawes praised their on-screen chemistry, noting in his conversation with Davis that their camaraderie sets a strong tone for the show.

The supporting cast includes Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry, Garret Dillahunt as William Macon, Poorna Jagannathan as Zoe, and Ulrich Thomsen as the villainous Sinestro.

Nathan Fillion will also appear as the brash Green Lantern Guy Gardner, reprising his role from James Gunn’s Superman. Hawes’ direction of the first two episodes ensures a cinematic start to this eight-episode series.

When and Where Is Lanterns Being Filmed?

Filming for Lanterns began in February 2025 in Los Angeles, a shift from the initially planned Atlanta shoot, as confirmed by DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn.

Hawes shared with Davis that the production is capturing the scope they envisioned, with the first week of shooting under his direction already showing promise.

The series is expected to wrap filming by July 2025, setting the stage for its early 2026 premiere on HBO and Max. This Los Angeles setting supports the show’s grounded aesthetic while allowing for intergalactic elements.

What Can Fans Expect from the Show’s Tone and Style?

Hawes highlighted that Lanterns will feel like a natural extension of the gritty, character-focused storytelling seen in The Penguin. He told Davis that the series retains the “grit” audiences loved in that show, mixed with the iconic Green Lantern elements fans expect.

The director promised that classic fans won’t be disappointed, as the show gradually introduces the broader Green Lantern universe.

Showrunner Chris Mundy echoed this, stating the series balances tension, mystery, and authentic emotion, making it both accessible and rewarding for comic book enthusiasts.

How Does Lanterns Fit into the DC Universe?

As part of the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, Lanterns is a foundational piece of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s rebooted DC Universe. Hawes’ conversation with Davis underscored the series’ role in establishing a unified DCU, with connections to Gunn’s Superman through Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner.

The show’s detective-driven narrative, penned by Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, sets it apart from previous Green Lantern adaptations, offering a fresh take that complements the DCU’s diverse storytelling approach.

Key Takeaways:  

• Premiere Date: Early 2026 on HBO and Max.

• Lead Stars: Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, Aaron Pierre as John Stewart.

• Supporting Cast: Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, Ulrich Thomsen, Nathan Fillion.

• Director: James Hawes for the first two episodes, with Stephen Williams, Geeta Vasant Patel, and Alik Sakharov also directing.

• Creative Team: Chris Mundy (showrunner), Damon Lindelof, and Tom King.

• Genre: Superhero crime drama with a True Detective-like tone.

• Filming: February to July 2025 in Los Angeles.

• DCU Role: Part of Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.

Some Closing Thoughts:

HBO's Lanterns TV series director James Hawes has ignited excitement with his revealing chat with Brandon Davis, offering a glimpse into a Green Lantern show that’s both grounded and cosmic.

With a stellar cast, a True Detective-inspired mystery, and a commitment to character depth, Lanterns is poised to shine brightly in the DC Universe.

Mark your calendars for its early 2026 debut on HBO and Max, and join the conversation on X as anticipation builds for this intergalactic adventure.