The Main Characters
As you would expect, our main Lantern would be Hal Jordan. His trusty companion is Kilowog, which I guess makes sense because Kilowog is a lovable big guy. 'Wog wouldn't be a boring companion since he's not human and his personality is fairly distinct from Hal's. Pairing Jordan with Kyle Rayner or John Stewart would've made it too stale. But if Guy Gardner becomes a part of this, then it'd be all kinds of party-time.
And given the story this whole series is looking to take on, it seems like we're stuck with these two unless, of course, others join the fray eventually or this arc ends abruptly.
For the baddies, we have Zilius Zox and some guy named Razor (or Razer, I dunno). They are, as some of you might know, Red Lanterns. That means they report to the big bad Atrocitus himself. Kinda wish Atrocitus looked little more menacing, though.
Of course, like most DCAU series, we're likely going to be treated to a cameo every episode. Who else is gonna freak the fuck out when they see Green Arrow? *raises hands*
The Story So Far
As the pilot clearly pointed out, it'll be Hal Jordan and Kilowog in the uncharted areas of space, going up against the Red Lantern Corps. That's the general plot, at least. This sets up the rest of the show with a bunch of freedom. They're out there in the openness of the cosmos, out of anyone's space sector. The Red Lantern Corps, who can recruit just random people for fodder, are fighting for the still unknown evil reasons and Hal and the gang are there to stop them!. They can essentially do ANYTHING, with a bunch of potentially amazing outer-spacey stories they can tell. It's something to look forward to.
The Theme
Yes, this is on Cartoon Network, and it's not on Adult Swim. Does that mean there won't be a buncha killing and exploding? If that's your worry, then you may put that to rest. Lanterns and innocents die. And in the pilot, they seem to die A LOT. I guess Cartoon Network sees their audience as mature kids-at-heart, instead of deluding themselves that only kids watch their stuff. This trend is easily noticeable since there have been a few previous CN shows depicted content not suitable for kiddies. Star Wars: The Clone Wars, anyone? That entire show isn't exactly what you would call kid-friendly but thankfully, Green Lantern just pushes the limits; just safe enough to stay on Cartoon Network.
Major spoiler alert, highlight to see text clearly: That guy on the left dies a fucked up death.
How Promising Is It
With the whole uncharted galaxy to explore, unlimited number of species to save and/or harass, new rogue galleries to be developed and discovered, and a wealth of source material, I would say Green Lantern: The Animated Series is pure potential. The art style is lovely and consistent with the DCAU. It isn't too kiddie and the story is just detached enough away from the DCAU canon to make for its own awesome show
If you don't believe me, then let this screenshot convince you that my words are true:
I'm sorry, sir, but you seem to have dropped your FACE on the FLOOR.