Green Lantern (2011) is a superhero film based on the iconic DC Comics character, directed by Martin Campbell. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan, Blake Lively as Carol Ferris, and Mark Strong as Sinestro. Released on June 17, 2011, it aimed to bring the Green Lantern mythos to the big screen, exploring themes of courage and responsibility.
The plot follows Hal Jordan, a talented but reckless test pilot who is unexpectedly chosen to become the first human member of the Green Lantern Corps, an intergalactic police force tasked with maintaining peace across the universe. Hal inherits a powerful ring that grants him extraordinary abilities, allowing him to create constructs powered by his will. As he learns to harness these powers, he faces the formidable threat of Parallax, a fear-based entity that seeks to dominate and consume the universe. Throughout his journey, Hal must confront not only external dangers but also his own insecurities and fears, ultimately proving himself worthy of being a Green Lantern.
The film features several key characters that contribute to its narrative. Hal Jordan is portrayed as a flawed hero who must grow into his role as a protector of the universe. Carol Ferris, played by Blake Lively, serves as Hal's love interest and a fellow pilot who provides emotional support. Mark Strong's Sinestro is introduced as a veteran Green Lantern who initially doubts Hal's capabilities but later becomes a significant figure in the story. The antagonist Hector Hammond, portrayed by Peter Sarsgaard, is another critical character whose transformation under Parallax's influence adds depth to the conflict.
Despite its ambitious goals, Green Lantern received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. While some praised its visual effects and action sequences, many criticized its thin plot and underdeveloped characters. The film holds a rating of 5.5/10 on IMDb and has been described as "noisy" and "overproduced" by Rotten Tomatoes. Critics noted that while it adhered closely to the comic book's mythology, it struggled to engage viewers in a meaningful way.
In terms of box office performance, Green Lantern had an estimated budget of $200 million but grossed approximately $237 million worldwide. This financial outcome was considered disappointing given its high production costs and the expectations surrounding superhero films at that time. Overall, while Green Lantern aimed to introduce audiences to the expansive universe of DC Comics through its titular hero, it faced challenges in resonating with viewers and critics in an increasingly competitive genre landscape during 2011.