The second episode of HBO Max’s “Lanterns” has landed, and the Green Lantern Corps is already facing new threats. But some eagle-eyed fans believe that a familiar face – or rather, an alien entity – might be lurking in the shadows, potentially setting up a major storyline involving one of DC’s most formidable villains: Atrocitus.
A New Threat Emerges
While Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) is busy dealing with extraterrestrial activity in Rushville, Nebraska, John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) finds himself on a mission to retrieve a powerful energy source. However, his task takes an unexpected turn when he’s ambushed and kidnapped by a group of aliens led by Paul Ben-Victor’s Antaan.
Antaan claims that the Manhunters are responsible for wiping out his people and demands that John unmask a Manhunter hiding in Rushville within 48 hours. This sets off alarm bells for some viewers who suspect that Antaan might be more than meets the eye.
The Atrocitus Connection
During his meeting with John, Antaan reveals details about the Manhunters’ atrocities, a backstory that shares striking similarities to the Red Lanterns and their leader, Atrocitus. Past incarnations of the Red Lanterns have also suffered at the hands of the Manhunters, making Atrocitus a prime suspect in this unfolding drama.
While Atrocitus is typically depicted as larger and more imposing than Ben-Victor’s character, these subtle connections have ignited a frenzy of online theories. When Deadline”>Deadline first reported that Ben-Victor would be joining the cast, his character was described as “an extraterrestrial devoted to exposing the truth and exacting vengeance against those who wronged his people.” This description certainly aligns with the vengeful nature of Atrocitus.
Fan Theories Run Wild
Theories about Atrocitus’ potential involvement have been circulating since before the show even premiered. One Reddit user, ‘I_warisha,’ for example, took to Reddit”>”I_warisha,” drew connections between major events happening in years ending with the number six and Sector 166 (not 666). While initially dismissed as a long shot, this theory is gaining traction as more pieces of the puzzle fall into place.
“Probably Atrocitus and the massacre he referred to was probably the Massacre of Sector 166,” one fan suggested”>suggested online. “There’s just no way Paul Ben-Victor’s character isn’t Atrocitus.” Another fan theorized”>theorized, “In the comics the manhunters are the ones who wiped out Atrocitus’ planet including his family. The way he’s speaking about it here perfectly lines up with that, and like he was there to see it, too.”
What’s Next for the Lanterns?
just taking off”>”Lanterns” is still in its early stages, but it’s clear that the showrunners have a grand vision for the DC Universe. While we don’t know exactly how many fan-favorite characters will make an appearance this season, one thing is certain: Hal Jordan is destined for a dramatic end before all eight episodes air.
Meanwhile, John Stewart seems poised for a bright future in the DCU, as Pierre is already confirmed”>Aaron Pierre will be reprising his role in the upcoming Superman”>”Superman: Man of Tomorrow” sequel. For now, fans can catch IGN’s review and recap for Episode 2″>review and recap of Episode 2, hear what showrunner Chris Mundy had to say about it”>Chris Mundy had to say about the episode, and learn more about how DC Studios co-CEO defended the evolving tone of the DCU”>defended the evolving tone of the DCU.
As we eagerly await Episode 3 this Sunday, keep an eye out for any clues that might confirm whether Paul Ben-Victor’s character is indeed Atrocitus, and prepare for a potentially explosive confrontation between the Green Lantern Corps and one of DC’s most formidable villains.
Source: IGN Gaming
Join the conversation