Lanterns is “for the fans” in refreshing ways
Just as he did with Watchmen, Damon Lindelof translates another DC Comics property with an eye toward collective memory.
The popular phrase "It's for the fans" has long been used by studios and fandoms alike, often signifying a retelling of beloved characters' backstories tailored for television or film. Reboots of well-known superheroes like Spider-Man and Batman often start with condensed histories and new beginnings, while lesser-known properties like Guardians of the Galaxy are typically introduced as origin stories.
However, two HBO series based on DC Comics properties, Watchmen and Lanterns, seemingly reclaim the "for the fans" argument, putting fans' defensive retort to good use.
Watchmen, helmed by Damon Lindelof, reimagines the DC Comics graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, while Lanterns takes a fresh approach to Green Lantern, a superhero figure often overlooked compared to more prominent characters like Wonder Woman and Superman. Both series acknowledge the history of their respective superheroes but present them in a way that feels like an ongoing story, without dwelling on the nitty-gritty details.
Lanterns' pilot introduces Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, who reluctantly mentors John, portrayed by Aaron Pierre, as he takes over the Green Lantern mantle. The show avoids major special effects-heavy sequences, allowing viewers to focus on the characters and their relationships, while still presenting the rich history of the Green Lanterns.
The audience is encouraged to embrace the sci-fi mechanics of the world and accept that the characters are already familiar with the Green Lantern's history, making the series accessible to both hardcore fans and casual viewers alike.
Written by urgent.news from The A.V. Club's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
