When the trailer for Superman (2025) finally dropped, I assumed I'd be primarily interested in David Corenswet's Man of Steel, but instead I was more fascinated by a different DC hero: Nathan Fillion's Green Lantern. The DCU Superman is set to redefine the iconic hero for a new generation, marking the first film in James Gunn's DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Despite the sincere charm of Corenswet's Clark Kent, I'm most excited about Nathan Fillion's take on Green Lantern – specifically, the hilarious and unmistakable Guy Gardner.
james gunn Superman represents the beginning of a new DCU, a new phase after years of inconsistent films and confusing timelines. James Gunn stated that this new Superman would be a bastion of hope with a distinct sense of humanity, contrasting with Henry Cavill's Superman in the DCEU, who was more serious and godlike.. THE Superman (2025) trailer shows this immediately, depicting Superman in a defeated state. But for me, it wasn't the fragile, bloody Superman that stood out. It was Nathan Fillion's Guy Gardner in all his comical, bowl-cut glory.
I'm absolutely fascinated by Nathan Fillion's Green Lantern after the Superman trailer
From the moment Nathan Fillion's Guy Gardner appeared on screen, he had my attention. The bold, unapologetically retro bowl cut is one of the most notable aspects—a hairstyle so iconic it looks like it was ripped straight from the pages of a 1980s Green Lantern comic. But it's not just his look that captures you; it’s the sheer personality he exudes in every frame.
In a particularly memorable scene from the trailer, Gardner uses his Green Lantern ring to lock a door, showing the mundane but practical applications of his immense power. It's a moment as funny as it is revealing. Here's a guy who isn't afraid to use his ring for something as small as closing a door, and is so grounded, almost irreverent approach that makes him feel so distinct. Fillion already brings his signature charisma to the role, making Gardner a scene-stealer, even in a trailer full of heavy hitters.
Why DCU Guy Gardner's Adaptation Is So Important
The inclusion of Guy Gardner as the DCU's first cinematic Green Lantern is a bold and unexpected move. For many, the name Green Lantern conjures up images of Hal Jordan, the heroic test pilot, or John Stewart, the stoic ex-Marine. But Guy Gardner? He is the loud, hot-headed underdog of the Green Lantern Corpsa character who is as likely to start a bar fight as he is to save the day. Choosing Gardner over more conventional options signals that the DCU is willing to embrace the quirkier, more unconventional corners of its mythology.
This also marks the first time Green Lantern has made a live-action appearance in a DC film since the infamous Green Lantern (2011), a film that is Considered one of the worst superhero films of all time. Although Ryan Reynolds' Hal Jordan had its moments, the film's confusing script and subpar CGI made it a joke for years. By introducing Guy Gardner, the DCU not only steps away from the film's shadow, but also sets a new precedent for how these characters can be portrayed.
Nathan Fillion's Green Lantern Debut Makes Next DCU Lantern Show Even More Exciting
Guy Gardner's introduction into Superman has important implications for the future of the DCU, particularly the next Flashlights series. Billed as a key project on Gunn's slate, the series promises a police-style adventure, starring Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Although Gardner is not officially confirmed for the show, Fillion's memorable debut makes the prospect of his inclusion seem inevitable – and highly anticipated.
What's especially moving is how Gardner's portrayal of Superman suggests a commitment to comic-accurate interpretations of these characters. With the ridiculous cut, Gardner feels as if he was lifted directly from the source material. This attention to detail bodes well for the Flashlights series, which could explore the unique dynamics and personalities of the Green Lantern Corps in a way audiences have never seen before.
The trailer also hints at the creative ways the DCU plans to represent Green Lantern's powers. Gardner using his ring to lock a door may seem small, but it's a perfect example of how versatile these abilities can be. It's a reminder that Green Lanterns these aren't just space cops wielding generic energy blasts; they are creative problem solvers, capable of incredible feats, big and small. In a trailer full of iconic characters and epic moments, Nathan Fillion's Guy Gardner managed to steal the show and is making me more excited Superman than I already was.
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