The director of 'Lanterns' hints at the tone of the HBO show and its blend of sci-fi and magic
Director James Hawes promises a blend of sci-fi magic and authenticity in HBO's Lanterns.
James Hawes, the director of the HBO series Lanterns, is eliciting excitement by hinting at the show’s unique tone that combines elements of science fiction and magic. In a discussion with Collider, Hawes emphasized that Lanterns would not merely replicate the earthbound focus of the previous Green Lantern movie. Instead, it seeks to expand the universe’s scope while grounding its story in familiar yet fantastical settings, specifically in Nebraska. By stating, "It’s done in a world where you accept that these things just are," Hawes reveals his intention to seamlessly blend cosmic adventures with an earthly atmosphere that embraces the extraordinary.
The anticipation for Lanterns is fueled by its casting choices, with Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler taking on the iconic roles of John Stewart and Hal Jordan, respectively. Hawes expressed his admiration for the actors, describing Pierre and Chandler as individuals with remarkable charm and authenticity. He highlighted their ability to fully inhabit their roles, stating, "You get people who are just so classy and so busy inhabiting their roles, so you never doubt it." This focus on casting is pivotal to creating a believable narrative that draws viewers into the characters' journeys.
Another aspect Hawes touches on is the series' humor and tone, drawing parallels to his previous work on shows like Slow Horses and Black Mirror. Such a comparison suggests that Lanterns might feature both sharp, intelligent wit and darker, more reflective moments, enhancing the storyline's immersion. His excitement for certain scenes is palpable, as he mentions finding moments in the script he looked forward to bringing to life, underscoring his passion for the project.
The show's production reflects Hawes' debut foray into the superhero genre. Despite acknowledging his initial lack of experience in this domain, he describes himself as "bewitched" by the project. This exploration into a new genre presents Spark's enthusiasm for storytelling and dedication to expanding his storytelling repertoire. Making Lanterns accessible to both superhero fans and new audiences appears to be a key objective for Hawes, bridging the gap between traditional superhero tales and broader, imaginative narratives.
Lanterns is scheduled for a 2026 release on Max and HBO, promising a fresh take on the iconic superheroes. Fans and audiences can look forward to a series that respects its origins while pushing narrative boundaries in innovative ways. Being part of the larger DC Universe expansion on television, the upcoming debut holds potential for Lanterns to be a significant contributor to superhero television storytelling. The involvement of high-talent actors and a visionary director creates an optimistically awaited outing for the Green Lantern lore.
Sources: io9, Collider