Lanterns Episode 6 Revives Hal Jordan as a Hologram While Deepening the Rushville Murder Mystery

Key points

• Hal Jordan's backup consciousness is revived to assist John Stewart in investigating his own murder, creating a new dynamic for the series.
• The episode introduces Guy Gardner as the current Green Lantern, highlighting his corporate sponsorship and contrasting his tone with the show's darker style.
• John Stewart returns to Rushville after a decade, confronting Hal's final days and the town's ongoing trauma from the Manhunter incident.
• The episode connects 'Lanterns' to the DC Universe by referencing events from 'Superman' and 'The Suicide Squad,' without disrupting its narrative focus.
• Suspects for Hal's murder include Sinestro, Noah Macon, and Sheriff Kane, with John Stewart's involvement remaining a possibility despite evidence to the contrary.

Background

The series 'Lanterns' premiered as a grounded take on Green Lantern lore, focusing on the aftermath of the Manhunter incident in Rushville. Previous episodes established the complex relationships between John Stewart, Hal Jordan, and Sheriff Kane, setting the stage for the current murder mystery.

How outlets are covering it

IndieWire emphasizes the emotional weight of Hal's revival and the potential long-term implications for the series, questioning whether the Hal-o-gram will remain a permanent fixture. The Ringer highlights the successful integration of 'Lanterns' into the DC Universe, praising the episode for balancing cosmic connections with its self-contained story. The Hollywood Reporter focuses on Nathan Fillion's perspective, noting his confidence in Guy Gardner's fit within the show's tone despite initial concerns. Vulture appreciates the episode's focus on grief and character dynamics, though it critiques the underdeveloped racial commentary subplot.

Why it matters

This episode marks a pivotal shift in 'Lanterns,' blending its grounded narrative with the broader DC Universe while deepening the central murder mystery. The revival of Hal Jordan's consciousness and the introduction of Guy Gardner set the stage for future storylines, ensuring the series remains relevant within the DCU while maintaining its unique tone.

What to watch

The series will continue to explore the murder mystery, with John Stewart and the Hal-o-gram investigating suspects in Rushville. Future episodes may delve deeper into the implications of Hal's revival and the evolving dynamics between John, Guy, and the townspeople.