DC Studios and HBO have officially answered fan concerns with a new trailer for Lanterns, finally pulling back the curtain on the intergalactic powers of the Green Lantern Corps.
While previous teasers leaned heavily into a “grounded” True Detective-style mystery, this latest look embraces the comic book flair fans have been waiting for, showcasing the emerald-hued energy constructs that define the franchise.
The new trailer highlights the contrasting styles of the two lead Lanterns. We see veteran Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) utilizing his ring with seasoned precision, conjuring a massive green shield to deflect energy beams and creating a protective bubble to withstand cosmic forces.
In a moment of character-driven levity, Jordan is even seen using his ring to “construct” a dollar bill for a jukebox—a move that doesn’t sit quite right with his more disciplined partner.
Meanwhile, the trailer gives us a better look at recruit John Stewart (Aaron Pierre). While Stewart is shown leaping through the air and carrying a power battery, the footage shows his journey from a skeptical newcomer to a hero finding his own “fearless” path.
When a teaser debuted in March, some viewers criticized the lack of visible powers and the decision to shorten the title from Green Lantern to simply Lanterns.
Co-head of DC Studios James Gunn teased this “action-packed” update on social media just a day prior, promising fans that “danger is part of the job” and ensuring that the series would balance its gritty Earth-based murder mystery with the cosmic spectacle of the DC Universe.
Beyond the rings and constructs, the trailer confirms a powerhouse supporting cast. Nathan Fillion returns as the abrasive Guy Gardner, reprising his role from the 2025 Superman film, while the legendary Laura Linney appears in a mysterious, authoritative new role.
The trailer also gives us our first look at P-Valley star J. Alphonse Nicholson, who appears in what seems to be a pivotal flashback sequence as a young John Senior, John Stewart’s father.
Lanterns is set to premiere on August 16, airing weekly on HBO and streaming on Max.
