The new HBO Max series Lanterns has been dubbed the 'best show of the year' by early viewers, who are comparing it to True Detective with superpowers. The first episode is streaming now on HBO Max, NOW, and Sky TV.
The debut instalment was made available from today (August 17), with future episodes releasing on a weekly basis. According to early reactions, it already seems like it will be appointment viewing.
A Dark Mystery in the Heartlands
The show is the latest title in the DC Universe and an adaptation of the Green Lantern comic books. Viewers are invited to join John Stewart and Hal Jordan as they find themselves wrapped up in a dark mystery. They investigate a murder in the American heartlands, but there is something otherworldly going on.
It is billed as a fresh live-action take on these popular characters from the DC catalogue. Chris Mundy serves as showrunner, having previously written episodes of Netflix's Ozark, Criminal Minds, and True Detective. It was co-created by celebrated comics writer Tom King, known for writing many DC publications, and Damon Lindelof, who helped make Lost, The Leftovers, and another DC adaptation for HBO in Watchmen.
Cast and Critical Acclaim
Lanterns' cast includes Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler as John Stewart and Hal Jordan respectively. They are joined by the likes of Kelly Macdonald, known for previous roles in Boardwalk Empire, Line of Duty, and Deft Q.
The series is already proving a big hit with critics and fans alike. Just ahead of its debut, it managed to register an impressive 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with some hailing it as the best show of 2026.
Fan and Critic Reactions
One reviewer claimed: "Lanterns is HBO’s next must-see Sunday night blockbuster and DC Studios’ latest creative win. It’s a meditation on legacy, community, and the very nature of fear. More importantly, though, it’s a real fun time."
Another agreed: "Lanterns is the best new show of the year and one of the most timely and impactful stories DC has ever told. Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler shine brighter than ever in a series that isn't afraid to take creative risks."
Other suggested that it is an ideal series for everyone, whether or not they are already a fan of the original comic books or other DC movies and TV shows. One reviewer argued: "Lanterns isn’t just the BEST thing DC has done since The Batman… it’s my favourite series of 2026. Truly Impeccable series that dives into what it actually means to be a Green Lantern and the enormous responsibility that comes with carrying that ring."
A common highlight of the show so far is the performances from its two leading men. As one verdict stated: "Lanterns is a thrilling, highly entertaining season of television ... with two commanding lead actors that knock their roles out of the stadium."
Someone else said: "Lanterns is a captivating murder mystery that prides itself on relentless pacing and masterful character work from Kyle Chandler's Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre's John Stewart to ensure DC's superhero rivals will turn green with envy."
Adding to that, many compared it to the showrunner's previous work in True Detective. One review simply put forward: "Lanterns is a sci-fi True Detective I couldn't stop watching." Similarly, another write-up called it 'risky' and 'unpredictable' but ultimately described it as 'True Detective with superpowers'.
Lanterns is streaming on HBO Max, NOW, and Sky TV.
