The Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes score has officially made the HBO series the highest-rated project in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DCU so far.
The series has climbed to an impressive 95% Tomatometer score, putting it ahead of every other DCU project released under the new studio leadership. That includes Peacemaker Season 2, Creature Commandos, Superman, and Supergirl.
Lanterns Tops the DCU on Rotten Tomatoes
The Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes score currently stands at 95%, giving the series the strongest critical reception among DCU projects.
The series now sits above:
- Peacemaker Season 2 — 94%
- Creature Commandos — 93%
- Superman — 83%
- Supergirl — 52%
That ranking gives Lanterns an impressive early victory for the new DCU. More importantly, the series has achieved the milestone after receiving strong reviews from critics following its premiere.
Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes Score Climbed From 89% to 95%
Lanterns initially opened with an 89% Tomatometer score when the review embargo lifted on August 14. However, additional reviews pushed the score higher. Shortly after the series premiered on August 16, its rating climbed to 95%. The score is currently based on 71 critic reviews, with an average rating of 7.65/10.
Therefore, the strong rating isn’t based on just a small number of early reviews.
Critics Are Praising the Performances
Critics have highlighted several aspects of Lanterns. The series has received praise for its fearless performances, grounded writing, and the chemistry between Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre. Chandler plays veteran Green Lantern Hal Jordan, while Pierre portrays rookie Lantern John Stewart. Their relationship forms one of the central elements of the series.
Furthermore, the grounded approach has helped Lanterns stand apart from more traditional superhero projects.
Lanterns Also Leads the DCU With Audiences
The Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes score isn’t the only impressive number. The series currently holds an 85% Popcornmeter score from audiences. That gives Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes Score the highest audience rating among the DCU’s television projects.
It currently sits ahead of Creature Commandos and both seasons of Peacemaker. The strong audience response suggests that the show’s critical success isn’t limited to professional reviewers.
Why Lanterns’ Success Matters for the DCU?
The success of Lanterns comes at an important moment for DC Studios. James Gunn and Peter Safran are continuing to expand the new DCU across movies and television.
Every successful project helps establish confidence in the studio’s new approach. Lanterns is particularly important because Green Lantern represents one of DC’s most recognizable superhero properties.
The series also introduces Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart, who could become an important character in the wider DCU.
Superman Couldn’t Match Lanterns’ Rotten Tomatoes Score
One of the most notable aspects of the Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes score is that it has surpassed Superman. James Gunn’s Superman currently holds an 83% Tomatometer score. While that remains a strong critical result, Lanterns has moved significantly higher.
The comparison is especially interesting because Superman launched the DCU’s movie side, while Lanterns represents another major step in the television side of the franchise.
Peacemaker and Creature Commandos Also Fall Behind Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes Score
Lanterns has also overtaken two other major DCU projects. Creature Commandos holds a 93% Tomatometer score, while Peacemaker Season 2 sits at 94%. That means Lanterns now has a narrow lead over both projects.
The difference may be small, but the milestone still gives the series bragging rights as the highest-rated DCU project.
The Show’s Grounded Approach Is Paying Off
One of the biggest reasons behind Lanterns’ reception appears to be its willingness to take a different approach to superhero storytelling. Rather than relying entirely on spectacle, the series blends Green Lantern mythology with a grounded mystery.
The story follows Hal Jordan and John Stewart as they become involved in a dangerous investigation. That combination has allowed the series to explore its characters while still introducing the larger cosmic elements associated with the Green Lantern mythology.
Damon Lindelof Defends Creative Risks
Co-creator Damon Lindelof has recently discussed the importance of taking creative risks. According to Lindelof, audiences can sometimes value bold storytelling choices more than straightforward fan service. That philosophy appears to fit Lanterns, which has already made several unexpected creative decisions.
The series’ willingness to move beyond traditional superhero storytelling could ultimately become one of its biggest strengths.
Lanterns Season 2 Discussions Are Already Underway
The success of the first season has also led to early discussions about a potential continuation. Lanterns creators are already considering what could come next.
Christopher Cantwell has reportedly joined showrunner Chris Mundy in discussions surrounding a potential second season. However, DC Studios has not officially confirmed a Season 2 renewal.
The strong Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes score could nevertheless provide an encouraging sign for the show’s future.
Lanterns Has Set a New DCU Benchmark
The Lanterns Rotten Tomatoes Score has reached 95%, officially making the series the highest-rated project in the James Gunn and Peter Safran DCU. Its score now sits above Peacemaker Season 2, Creature Commandos, Superman, and Supergirl.
At the same time, its 85% audience score demonstrates that viewers are responding positively as well. With more episodes still ahead, Lanterns has an opportunity to maintain its strong reception and potentially establish itself as one of the defining projects of the new DCU.
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Ambily Sajan 
Ambily S