Liked 'Lanterns'? What to Watch Next on Max and Beyond

The upcoming series 'Lanterns,' set for 2026 on Max, is poised to introduce a new interpretation of a long-standing comic book property. For those tracking its development, or who enjoy series that blend superhero narratives with urban fantasy and procedural elements, there are established titles worth exploring.

Anticipating 'Lanterns' on Max

'Lanterns' is a series confirmed for 2026 on Max. While details remain under wraps, the property it draws from typically involves individuals granted extraordinary abilities by a cosmic organization, tasked with maintaining order across vast distances. The series is expected to focus on a pair of central figures investigating a mystery on Earth. Its premise suggests a blend of superhero action with detective work, set against a backdrop of supernatural or science fiction elements. The next episode is dated for August 16, 2026.

The Roots of Vigilantism and Urban Crime

If the urban crime-fighting aspect of 'Lanterns' is what draws your interest, then 'Gotham' from 2014 might be a suitable next watch. This series explores the origins of characters within a well-known fictional city, focusing on the police department's efforts to combat crime and corruption before the emergence of its most famous masked vigilante. It blends police procedural drama with a growing cast of eccentric villains. The series often portrays a city on the brink, a theme that resonates with many superhero narratives where a few individuals stand against widespread chaos. While 'Gotham' does not feature traditional superheroes, it lays the groundwork for such a world, focusing on the human elements of law enforcement and villainy.

Superpowers and Their Consequences

For series that directly engage with the presence of super-powered individuals, 'Powers' from 2015 and 'Titans' from 2018 offer different perspectives. 'Powers' delves into a world where superheroes exist, but the focus is on a police force specifically dedicated to investigating crimes committed by or against them. This approach grounds the fantastical elements in a more conventional detective framework, similar to what 'Lanterns' may explore with its investigative premise. It examines the societal impact of powers rather than just the spectacle.

'Titans,' released in 2018, follows a group of young heroes as they navigate their abilities and work together to confront various threats. This series leans into team dynamics and the personal struggles that come with having powers. It often features darker tones and more complex character arcs than some traditional superhero fare. The narrative structure, which frequently involves unraveling mysteries and facing powerful adversaries, aligns with the investigative elements suggested for 'Lanterns.' Both 'Powers' and 'Titans' explore what it means to operate in a world where extraordinary abilities are a reality, whether from the perspective of law enforcement or the heroes themselves.

Mythology and the Unseen World

When the supernatural and mythological aspects of a series like 'Lanterns' are of interest, two other titles come into view: 'Grimm' from 2011 and 'Sleepy Hollow' from 2013. 'Grimm' centers on a detective who discovers he is descended from a line of guardians, known as Grimms, who are tasked with keeping the balance between humanity and mythological creatures. Each episode often involves a case tied to these creatures, blending police work with folklore. This series builds a world where ancient legends are real and hidden in plain sight, requiring a unique form of investigation.

'Sleepy Hollow,' which premiered in 2013, takes a historical legend and recontextualizes it into a modern-day fight against supernatural forces. The series follows a resurrected Ichabod Crane as he teams with a present-day sheriff to combat the Headless Horseman and other apocalyptic threats. It's a blend of action, mystery, and fantasy that consistently draws from established lore to drive its narrative. Both 'Grimm' and 'Sleepy Hollow' demonstrate how ancient myths can be integrated into contemporary settings, providing a sense of a larger, unseen world that influences daily life, a characteristic that could be present in 'Lanterns' given its cosmic scope.

These titles, recommended by TMDB, provide a range of options for viewers who appreciate the blend of crime-solving, superhero narratives, and supernatural or mythological themes that 'Lanterns' is expected to offer. Whether you prefer urban procedurals, direct superhero action, or folklore-infused mysteries, there are existing series to explore while awaiting the 2026 premiere.

For ongoing updates on release dates and streaming availability, Binge Boss tracks these developments.