James Gunn’s anticipation for Lanterns after The Amateur is growing, as director James Hawes, known for helming the Rami Malek-led thriller, will be directing two episodes of the upcoming DCU television series. The recent box-office and critical response to The Amateur has sparked interest in how Hawes’ skills might influence the much-awaited Lanterns, set to explore characters from DC Comics in a new light.
James Hawes Shines as the Link Between The Amateur and Lanterns
James Hawes has attracted attention following the release of The Amateur, which stars Rami Malek and Rachel Brosnahan in a gripping action-thriller. Based on Robert Littell’s 1981 novel, the film features Malek’s portrayal of CIA codebreaker Charlie Heller, whose life unravels after a terrorist attack in London claims his wife. When his supervisors refuse to intervene, Heller chooses to take matters into his own hands, assembling his intelligence and resolve for a global hunt for justice.
The Amateur, scripted by Ken Nolan and Gary Spinelli, places its characters in high-stakes situations, delivering a tense atmosphere that showcases Hawes’ ability to maintain suspense throughout the film. The movie recently became available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Sky Store, providing wider access to viewers interested in Hawes’ directorial style ahead of Lanterns.
The Amateur’s Success Builds High Expectations for Lanterns
With a production budget of $60 million, The Amateur reached $95.8 million in worldwide box office earnings, according to industry sources, reflecting its solid performance though not a blockbuster hit. However, the critical and audience feedback reveals deeper insights into Hawes’ approach and effectiveness as a storyteller. On Rotten Tomatoes, The Amateur has landed at an impressive 88% audience score, with critics granting it 61%—a split response that favors the opinions of general viewers. Reviewers have described it as “an aggressively competent spy thriller,” noting Hawes’ command of the action-thriller genre.
Beyond The Amateur, Hawes’ portfolio includes films such as One Life (2023) and The Challenger Disaster (2013), further demonstrating his experience with fact-based dramas and tension-filled stories. These credits underline his knack for creating compelling narratives that engage both critics and audiences, even if not all agree with his perspective.
What Hawes’ Involvement Means for the DCU’s Lanterns
James Gunn, who has brought new energy to the DCU with a soft reboot that includes successful projects like Creature Commandos, is reportedly excited about Lanterns and Hawes’ role in shaping its tone. Although there is understandable curiosity about whether the Green Lantern-focused series will match or exceed The Amateur in quality, early indicators point to Hawes delivering a memorable interpretation of DC Comics’ characters and themes.
Yet, with the series set to premiere on HBO in early 2026, there is still time before critics and fans can weigh in on its success. For now, The Amateur stands as a “litmus test” for audiences curious about what Hawes might bring to the DC Universe: those interested can currently rent the film on Apple TV and judge his style for themselves.
The anticipation surrounding James Gunn’s vision for Lanterns is amplified by James Hawes’ demonstrated expertise in action-thrillers, with both creators aiming to please longtime DC followers and new viewers alike. As Lanterns moves closer to its debut, the reception of The Amateur will likely influence expectations, making Hawes’ next directorial chapter one of the most watched in the evolving DCU storyline.
