5 Ways to Save ‘Green Lantern 2′

We all know it: Green Lantern (2011) missed the mark, and missed it by a mile (read our review, if you must), ultimately stranding any plans for Green Lantern 2 in limbo. The hero might end up getting a second chance alongside the rest of DC's finest in Justice League... if it ever gets made. But we're still convinced (as is DC executive and GL-mastermind Geoff Johns) that the character could work on film, given the right set-up and story. Rather than nitpick every single thing the movie got wrong (we've done that already), we've put together a plan for not only convincing fans that the mistakes of the first movie wouldn't be repeated, but also delivering an adventure worthy of the character, while providing enough mythos for future sequels. Read on for our instructions on How To Save Green Lantern 2 in 5 Easy Steps.

Green Lantern Movie Origin Story

As much as we'd like to just pretend that the first Green Lantern movie never happened, there's no use re-treading the same material so soon after it was first attempted. And even with the poor descriptions of the mysterious powers behind the green and yellow 'energies' of willpower and fear, the mythology behind the Green Lantern Corps was established in the first film, if not properly explained. So at this point, we have to disagree with those recommending a complete 'reboot' with a new Lantern (say, Kyle Rayner or John Stewart). Those characters have a role in the larger story to come, but there's no mistaking the fact that Silver Age Green Lantern (a time in which the cosmic plotlines were first established) Hal Jordan was the main man. Given that Geoff Johns' Green Lantern: Rebirth (2004) returned us to that point, it makes little sense to follow a completely new path on film. While Spider-Man might be able to endure the same origin story twice in the same decade, Green Lantern hasn't earned the same right. Our advice: now that the stage has been set for a film focused on story, not introduction, pulling a do-over isn't going to please a broader audience. Let's just move on. Green Lantern 2 Ryan Reynolds

There were plenty of things done horribly wrong with Green Lantern, but casting Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan wasn't one of them. His leadingman status was never in doubt beforehand, but Reynolds' enthusiasm for the story and history of the character was clear from the get-go. Since the film's release, Reynolds has agreed with fan assessments that the movie didn't do justice to the comic, so blaming him for its problems seems like misguided anger. In all honesty, it's hard to think of a safer play for Warner Bros. and DC than sticking with Reynolds as their Jordan - he's the one they brought to the dance, he should be the one they leave with. His current fame as one of the sexiest men on the planet nearly guarantees that almost any movie would do better with him than without. The studio may decide to go with a different actor (and we've got some casting ideas if they do), but if star power can save Green Lantern, there are few bigger - or as interested - as Reynolds. There's no reason to think he'd ignore a strong script or director for the sequel - or an appearance in a Justice League movie, for that matter. That is, if he's not busy with Deadpool by then.

Green Lantern 2 Sinestro

Mark Strong's Sinestro hit almost every facet of the character perfectly. For the unfamiliar, his role in the first movie was as one of the Corps' greatest heroes, skeptical of humanity's potential but ultimately more willing to act than the relatively stoic, blue-skinned Guardians. In other words, the exact way we would have hoped. Audiences understanding Sinestro is necessary to make him a strong antagonist, since any good writer will tell you that complicated villains are the best, not 'evil' ones; a fact Strong clearly understood. As the closing moments of Green Lantern show Sinestro embracing the power of fear, and transforming under the yellow ring's influence, it was clear he was being teased as the next villain. We'd prefer a bit more explanation than 'the ring made him bad,' and as fans of the comics know, it's not hard to grow frustrated with those somber Guardians. You don't stall the story by making The Dark Knight (2008) without the Joker - and the same logic applies here. Of course, with the fight taking place so early in our hero's career, battling Sinestro seems like suicide; Hal's going to need some help...

Green Lantern Movie Guy Gardner John Stewart

We don't need to explain the potential for success that a spin-off Green Lantern: The Corps would have, since we know moviegoers love their team-ups. Strength in numbers is the reason for the Corps' existence, so it's about time Hal Jordan got some backup, and audiences got more characters to relate to. Starting with Guy Gardner: the man also chosen as Lantern of Space Sector 2814, with Hal Jordan's proximity to Abin Sur's ship the only deciding factor (a fact Gardner never let Jordan, or anyone, forget). Gardner's constant wise-cracking would also take the responsibility off of Reynolds, freeing him to focus on the wounded side of Hal Jordan's character. Add former marine and architect John Stewart - the Green Lantern of the Justice League animated series - and address younger viewers while including one of the all-too-few superheroes of color. If both were embraced by audiences, DC has even more options for the future. But what threat could demand the induction of two new human Lanterns? Perhaps the Guardians' mysterious actions coincide with the disappearance of Earth's most infamous villains? Humanity had better prepare itself...

Green Lantern Movie Sinestro Corps War

Any comic book fan knows of Geoff Johns and Dave Gibbons' "Sinestro Corps War" arc, not only for its impact in the series, but the DC Universe at large. With his Yellow Lantern Corps in tow, Sinestro plans to raze Coast City - Hal Jordan's hometown - as a galaxy-wide monument to the power of fear. A film based around Sinestro's army of psychopaths and murderers (awarded yellow rings for their ability to instill fear) would feature some incredible battles, but also allow Green Lantern 2 to act as glue between DC's movie franchises. Send the rings to recognizable villains from the existing DC movies, as the Earth's heroes are left wondering where their nemeses have escaped to. It would also give us a chance to see one of Sinestro's rings find Bruce Wayne, and the Lantern he might've made before rejecting the call. Obviously, the likes of Superman-Prime or the Anti-Monitor would be omitted from the pitched battle, raging on numerous fronts across the planet, all leading up to a one-on-one fight between Sinestro, Hal Jordan, and his closest friends. The citizens of the new 'Emerald City' refusing to abandon their hero is merely the cherry on top. Green Lantern 2 Movie Plan

Whether Warner Bros. and DC follow our plan, or whether the cast members are willing to return, remains to be seen. But for everyone who claims that there's just no recovering from Green Lantern's failure, and a return to the drawing board is the only solution, we'd repeat our claim that a strong story can still be told with Hal Jordan at its heart. With help from his friends, of course. What are your hopes for the future of Green Lantern? Is a direct sequel what you'd most prefer, or an entirely different take? Leave your thoughts in the comments. - Follow Andrew on Twitter @andrew_dyce.

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Lee 3 months ago

It just goes to show you doesn’t it? I really enjoyed this movie, the effects were amazing and I really enjoyed the story and casting, thought Reynolds did an excellent job so all in all I was very happy when I left the cinema. I do have to say though that I haven’t read any of the comics and the only thing I know about the character is what I saw on the screen.

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Dr. Zaius 3 months ago

I didn’t mind the first movie at all. Liked it enough to buy the blu ray.

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I liked this better than Thor 3 months ago

This movie wasn’t so much bad on story as it was light. What’s-her-name’s long laugh annoyed me. Slow “pick up the pace we get it they’re dancing” moments annoyed me.

Just about everything else worked. just needed to feel more tight.

Almost as good as Iron Man; also light on story.

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Craig Hamilton 3 months ago

I thought Reynolds and Strong were spot on with the characters. Even with the failings of the first film, the studio has the right actors already for a convincing sequal.

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xvenex 3 months ago

As a DC fan it’s hard to see that Warner doesn’t handle well with their hero characters in movies, GL is proof of that. But as much as I didn’t like this movie, I’ve to say that Ryan Reynolds wasn’t a bad choice for the part and he is a pretty good actor. I gotta say that I thought he’de be The Flash before GL but anyway, the fact that this movie sucked wasn’t his fault, but Warners. I definetly agree with this proposal. Going back to zero would be pointless, and also choosing another GL for the main role.

Let me say I love to read articles like this were interesting ideas are droped (God knows that Warners need them), instead of criticizing and criticizing all the movies DC and Warner do. In the end, it’s all in the ideas and quality of the script.

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- Mikelav 2 months ago
  
  Give u the world u want the galaxy give u the galaxy u want the universe your just the type thats never satisfied the movie was awesome you suck
  
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Regina Spindler 3 months ago

I don’t understand why everyone keeps saying that GREEN LANTERN was such a dud. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and went out and bought the DVD as soon as it came out. In fact, I watched it again last night and was entertained all over again. I sincerely hope that GREEN LANTERN 2 will see the light of day, but with everyone so against the first movie, I don’t know if it will get made. I agree with all of the points made about fixing whatever people hated about the first movie, and I would hate to see a second one made without Ryan Reynolds. I hope that any or all of the ways mentioned above will save this franchise.

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- Mike 2 months ago
  
  The movie didnt suck, im assuming your just one of those people who want the world get it and its still not enough can be given the galaxy still not enough handed the universe and still…. Not enough. so be unsatisfied i loved it
  
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- Mike 2 months ago
  
  Wrong person sorry
  
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mike tyson 3 months ago

God those are some horrible ideas. Strong’s Sinestro staying is the only good one.

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Sugar Free 3 months ago

That is why it is so important to get the right actor fot the right role. No matter how an actor or actress is on screen, it kind of messes up the visual of who they are by replacing them with someone else. Thumbs up to GREEN LANTERN!

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Howso 3 months ago

DC sucks anyway.

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seanshumbleopinion 3 months ago

I didn’t read Green Lantern so I don’t know how far off the movie was with regards to source material. I can say this though, the movie by itself was…bad! It’s like the makers weren’t sure how to develop the characters fully…you have this “wreckless” pilot that is haunted by memories of his father dying. Call me crazy I’m pretty sure a psych test would have discovered this and he wouldn’t be in charge of piloting a prototype jet…. See more of my opinion about the Justice League Movie below.

http://seanshumbleopinion.com/2013/01/29/can-superman-save-the-justice-league/

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- Yo mamma 2 months ago
  
  Another person who cant let a movie be a movie if were going to bither him about a psych test lets bring up the magical ring and people flying and aliens attacking ITS A MOVIE DUMBASS
  
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SilverWolf080 3 months ago

this movie wasn’t as bad as everyone tries to say it is. I really think they should have taken more time to develop tbe characters better and maybe tweak the plot a little bit. so a sequal should be much bigger in scale more action.

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holly 2 months ago

I don’t know why people are so against superhero movies kids love. Our whole family loved this movie and can’t wait for another one as long as they keep it kid friendly. Seems to me if you make toys for a movie then market them to kids the movie should be for kids too. This movie had the perfect balance of adult and kid content so ours didn’t have nightmares but we could also enjoy it.

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sweatboy 2 months ago

Actually, Kyle Raynor might be nice to have. Just as long as Gardner doesn’t show his face. Kyle was the coolest GL. idk if I mean younger or cooler. He was an artist after all, as opposed to a pilot. Wyf does a pilot have to do with imagination anyway? And it wouldn’t be a complete origin story, it’s like passing the baton down.

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Frog 2 months ago

I enjoyed this movie, the flying scenes were a bit cheesy, but it was all good fun throughout the film. But another thing to make sure it’s more successful, is don’t release it in theaters when all the other superhero movies are being released. They are what the audiences already know, more people know about the main Marvel characters, then they would about a fifth place DC comics character (Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash)… Save it for when people least expect it.

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Mike 2 months ago

The first wasnt a failure it was great didnt stick exactly to the comic and was rushed but was a fun movie and i look forward to seeing more Hal Jordan, Ryan Renolds did a good job so hate if you will its what comes with greatness

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Sylvia 2 months ago

I really enjoyed this movie but the “extended” version not the “cinema” version. The extended version addressed key issues to carractures and plot. I can see how the movie would have been a bit confusing without them.
I thought Reynolds was a perfect fit and would like to see a sequel that follows directly afrer the first.

Note: I haven’t read any of the comics and the only thing I know about the character is what I saw on the screen.

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Lewis 2 months ago

Ok first off number one was not a failure at all. It was a way cool movie and scripted and cast very well. Reynolds was the best choice for the part by far but the only thing I saw was that the whole race car track thing was kind of dumb, anyway I don’t see ware it was a failure at all and I think it would be DC suicide not to so GL2.

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Tim Perez 2 months ago

Having been a Justice League fan since the late 70′s, it is a let-down to see Marvel go so far ahead of the REAL superheroes! Green Lantern(Hal Jordan) is positively one of the most fascinating characters ever created and to say the movie “failed” is merely the opinion of uninteresting people who lack real creativity. Reynolds did the character justice and I look forward to seeing him expand the role in the future! The Flash, Firestorm the Nuclear Man, & Captain Marvel are also excellent choices for the DC universe to explore! ROCK ON!!!!

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jeff cammon 2 months ago

I avtually enjoyed the green lantern. I am 45 years old and was raised on the comics. Both dc and marvel. The movie was alot better than alot of other comic movies that supposedly did well. I look forward to the next one. Introducing a hero and setting his origins can be hard. Especially
one not that formiliar to a new generation. I think the mov

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robert west 1 month ago

Ryan Reynolds was the wrong choice to play Hal Jordan. Reynolds seemed a little young for the part and he was not convincing as the lantern of sector 2814. He may have made a decent Kyle Rainor but.. The movie needs a reboot just not the type like the newest Spiderman had.

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- Frederick Louis Richardsonf 1 month ago
  
  Someday we’ll get away from the word “reboot” and tell it like it is: “WE SCREWED THIS THING UP. LET’S DO IT AGAIN.” Because, you see, if the same people are going to “do it again” –er, reboot the film– how is it going to be, well, different. In other words, what reboot (of late) has been a substantial improvement over the original? Okay, I’ll give you THE HULK but…help me out here.
  
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Enderules3 1 month ago

I’d like to see star saphire.

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Lance 1 month ago

Wondering if Ryan Reynolds is son of Burt Reynolds ? There’s some similarities.

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Larry Love 3 weeks ago

GL2 should be an origin story for Barry Allen with Flash as GLs partner/rescuer. Hey producers, I’ve got lots of ideas, call

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JG 2 weeks ago

I got an idea, why don’t we have John Stewart get a Lantern Ring in the Justice League movie, then in the next Green Lantern film Hal Jordan trains him and then they do a simple prison transfer for Mongul, this is where Hal Jordan tells John he had to stop Mongul and his War Machine while Justice League was going on. During the prison transfer Mongul breaks free thanks to Sinestro and now it’s up to Hal and John to stop them.

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