Lanterns' Star Kyle Chandler on the Series' Premiere Twist and Unraveling the Mystery
The premiere of HBO's Lanterns has left viewers intrigued, and star Kyle Chandler is offering his insights into the series' unique narrative approach. With a non-linear storytelling style, the show introduces a complex mystery that unfolds over time, leaving audiences with more questions than answers.
In the opening episode, Chandler's character, Hal Jordan, and his trainee, John Stewart, find themselves entangled in a murder investigation in Rushville, Nebraska. The twist? Hal Jordan is dead, and John has not been the Green Lantern for a decade. This sets the stage for a captivating mystery, as Chandler explains, "The whole search is to find out what happened to him."
The non-linear narrative, Chandler notes, adds a layer of complexity to the storytelling. He compares it to a game of three-dimensional chess, where the emotional truth of the characters is carefully laid out and revealed. "Once you get all your pages taped on the wall and you know where all your scenes are, then you can take this page in the script and this page in the script, and figure out how to play with the material to reveal things differently," he says.
This approach allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' motivations and the impact of past events on the present. The series co-creators, Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, have crafted a narrative that challenges viewers to piece together the puzzle, with Chandler adding, "I like the fact that the show is non-linear and they’ve layered it like that."
As the story progresses, it becomes clear that there are two interconnected murder mysteries, and the events of 2016 play a crucial role in shaping the future. Chandler's performance as Hal Jordan, a legendary Lantern, adds depth to the character, and the reveal of his death sets the stage for a compelling investigation.
Lanterns, premiering on HBO and HBO Max, promises to keep viewers engaged as they unravel the mysteries alongside Hal Jordan and John Stewart. With its intricate storytelling and Chandler's compelling portrayal, the series is a must-watch for fans of complex, thought-provoking television.
