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The release of the first “Lanterns” trailer sparked a wave of fan reactions, particularly directed at the depiction of the Green Lantern suit. Observers noted its subdued color, a curious choice for a character defined by their “Green” identity. Questions also arose about why the series appears to be set predominantly on Earth, featuring Hal Jordan (played by Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (portrayed by Aaron Pierre) seemingly underutilizing their powers. However, fans should brace for more action-packed episodes ahead. For a detailed analysis, Looper’s breakdown video explores the possibility of a Green Lantern villain being subtly introduced in the trailer.
The absence of major action sequences might mislead viewers into thinking “Lanterns” revolves around a simple Earth-bound mystery involving Hal and John. Yet, the trailer offers a glimpse of actor Paul Ben-Victor, whose role might be more significant than it seems. According to Deadline, Ben-Victor portrays Antaan, an alien fervently seeking justice and revenge for wrongs done to his people. Driven by a profound disdain for the law, he aims to serve justice on his own terms.
Though Antaan doesn’t have a direct counterpart in the DC universe, his name bears a striking resemblance to Atros, known as the Red Lantern Atrocitus. Deadline’s character description aligns with Atrocitus’ mission in the comics—seeking retribution against the Green Lantern Corps. This connection could explain Hal’s presence on Earth as he investigates Antaan’s actions.
Atrocitus stands as a formidable adversary in the DC universe, whose backstory originates from Sector 666. His people were decimated by rogue Manhunters, created by the Guardians of the Universe, who are responsible for the Green Lantern Corps. Atrocitus seeks vengeance against these Guardians and is connected to Hal Jordan’s origin through Abin Sur, the alien who grants Hal his Green Lantern ring after crash-landing on Earth. Integrating Atrocitus into the “Lanterns” storyline could enrich Hal’s narrative arc.
In the comic series “Final Crisis: Rage of the Red Lanterns” by Geoff Johns and Shane Davis, Atrocitus forges a Red Lantern battery, becoming the inaugural Red Lantern powered by rage. He rallies an army to confront the Green Lanterns. His vendetta against them suggests he might have been responsible for the death of a fellow Lantern, possibly Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), on Earth, which would justify Hal and John’s Earth-bound vigilance.
Atrocitus could bear a grudge against Hal Jordan on Lanterns
DC Comics/Shane Davis
Atrocitus’ potential role in “Lanterns” might also shed light on a particular line from John in the trailer: “The Green Lanterns’ oath is to protect people, and we both know I do a better job of this than you.” This could hint at Hal’s past missteps, perhaps in failing Atros’ people when the Manhunters attacked. “Lanterns” might explore Hal’s journey toward redemption. To delve deeper into Atrocitus’ character before the show’s August release, be sure to check out Looper’s video.
In “Final Crisis: Rage of the Red Lanterns” from writer Geoff Johns and artist Shane Davis, Atrocitus creates a Red Lantern battery and becomes the first ever Red Lantern, fueled solely by rage. He amasses an army of other Red Lanterns to wage war against the Green Lanterns. To put it simply, Atrocitus holds a grudge against other Green Lanterns, so it’s possible that in “Lanterns,” he killed a Lantern, potentially Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), on Earth, which explains why Hal and John are staying close to home.
Atrocitus’ inclusion on “Lanterns” could also explain this line from John in the trailer: “The Green Lanterns’ oath is to protect people, and we both know I do a better job of this than you.” This could be a subtle dig toward one of Hal’s past failures, perhaps for allowing Atros’ people to die from the rogue Manhunters. “Lanterns” could be a show about Hal atoning for past sins, and if you want to learn more about Atrocitus before the show comes out in August, watch Looper’s video above.
