The Blog of OA

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #23 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 20:18:00 +0000

"Tomar-Tu.....What have you done?"

This week's Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #23 takes everything John Stewart had hoped to accomplish by teaming the Green and Yellow Lanterns and throws a giant monkey wrench construct into them. While most readers pretty know what's coming in this issue writer Robert Venditti has put together a script that isn't so much about surprising the reader as it is about letting the reader watch characters they have emotional investment in being put through the wringer.

This issue is a tale of two plots, the first of which is the investigation into the allegations by Bolphunga. While Hal Jordan is eager to dismiss them as the ravings of a desperate criminal John Stewart cannot afford that luxury and has to find out exactly what Bolphunga has on the Green Latnerns as anything. There's some tension between the two veteran lanterns and some if it's centered on how important this alliance is on a personal level for John. Something I found interesting is how much credit John gives himself for the apparent success of it all. His lines feature a lot of "I"'s in them which I think shows how personal it is to him, perhaps enough that he is blinded by his own desires to see success.

John and Hal don't see eye to eye

With Arkillo and Guy sent to investigate Venditti shifts the scene to the re-developing relationship between Soranik Natu and Kyle Rayner. I personally liked Soranik's take on the how she views Kyle's posturing and the perspective that Kilowog provides. Personally I think that Kyle's stance illustrates that he's not as ready for a serious relationship as she is - granted he's the benefactor of some vital information about their future that she doesn't have....yet. Venditti does a great job of building the tension as Natu comes to her own revelation about Sarko. Her reaction is exactly what I'd expected it would be and what happens with Sarko's body implies that the future has been changed in light of her new knowledge.

The closing moments are a nice build up to seeing both Hal and John discover Tomar-Tu's secret. Seeing them each come to their own realization simultaneously have the scene more weight emotionally. Sure it was predictable but sometimes it is better to already be in know and revel in the experience of watching the characters react is just as satisfying as being along for the ride along side them as it happens.

When it comes to the art I'm not sure how many more superlatives I can give Ethan Van Sciver at this point. For my money he is the definitive Green Lantern artist of the Modern Age and as usual this issue is a visual treat. That he's doing four issues in a row on this series and maintaining the quality standards that are a trademark of his style is a great feat in my opinion. Ethan and Jason Wright are one of the best, if not the best, art team DC has going for them and nothing says Green Lantern like seeing them on this series.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #23 is another chapter in one of DC Comics' top series. While the plot is somewhat predictable the creative team delivers an issue which packs an emotional punch and sets the stage for the greatest challenge to the alliance between the Green Lantern Corps and the Sinestro Corps. Nine out of ten lanterns.

Green Lanterns #25 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 23:43:00 +0000

"I am the acolyte of the spectrum"

With last week's Green Lanterns #25 sets the stage for the next arc of the series, elevating Volthoom's arc to the major thrust of the title. Along the way writer Sam Humprhies takes Simon Baz's relationship with his brother-in-law and best friend Nazir and pushes it into new territory by using it as the background framework for this chapter's narrative.

Humphries introduces us to two new characters from his "First Lanterns" concept, in this case a Tamaranean named Tyran'r and a Coluan named Kaja Dox. While I didn't find Kaja's story particularly compelling, Tyran'r's story is pretty interesting. The immediate reaction I had when Tyran'r appeared on the page was one of surprise as, like most DC fans, Tamaran immediately conjured images of Starfire. Tyran'r's appearance is very reminiscent of the Omega Men's Tygorr, a member of the feline species from the planet Karna. That both planets are in the Vega System it's intriguing to think that some of these races may very well share a common origin and through evolution became the various species we're read about all these years. It's a nice touch of universe building on Humphries' part, that's for sure.

Volthoom makes a triumphant return

The journey to the Vault of Shadows leads Volthoom to get his hands on the first major piece of the the puzzle that he needs to return home, and once Volthoom does his best impression of Voldemort he emerges as the colossal threat he should be. Clearly a superior foe, it doesn't take long before he has the upper hand against the series' lead characters. In a twist that immediately tells us why Tyran'r recognized the Earth Lanterns, the tiny part of the Travel Lantern inside Jessica's ring conflicts with the ring's programming, sending Jessica and Simon what will no doubt be in a journey into the past.

The fact that Tyran'r recognizes the two Earth Lanterns despite their never having met before is the source of the issue's weakest point. While Jessica and Simon question the whole thing briefly, the two sit and commiserate about how much they miss Earth rather than do the obvious thing of trying to find out more about the Tamaranean. With both of them wearing power rings it'd be an easy task for one of them to make use of it to query the ring about him. Sure they might not get an answer but not asking seems pretty stupid to me - and getting a non-answer from their rings should raise some suspicion since Tyran'r is wearing a ring.

Framed around the story is Simon Baz's letter to Nazir and how Simon has done some soul searching about their relationship. It shows Baz in a good light and it's an effective way to inject some heart into the story. That ultimately the letter is being read by Nazir on his birthday and Baz's absence serves as the final nail in the coffin for Nazir is a poignant moment counterpointed by the immense struggle that Baz is experiencing way across the universe. Humphries drives home the complexity of being a Green Lantern whose duties frequently prevent them from having any kind of real life without the ring. This has been tackled by writers before, most notably all the times that Hal Jordan and Carol Ferris have been on the outs, but Humphries does a better job than many of his predecessors in large part to the effort he's put into fleshing out the dynamics between Simon and his extended family.

Nazir finds himself let down by Simon's devotion to being a Green Lantern

Robson Rocha's pencils look great in this issue and there are some panels which really shine in this installment. Alex Sollazzo does the color work in this issue and I'm not quite sure how I feel about his efforts as a whole. I really liked how his style gave the flashback on Tamaran look but I didn't care for how muted it made the present day material look. One thing I wish that the editor would do is define how Jessica is supposed to look and get the art teams to be consistent. One issue her hair is black, another it's brown. Sometimes her skin is fair and sometimes more olive colored. If DC really wants this character to have staying power it would be helpful if they could develop consistency with her look.

Green Lanterns #25 is one of the title's better issues and is a good way to start of the second year of Sam Humphries run. While there's still room for improvement both in the narrative sense and artistically, this installment is a solid chapter in the story of Earth's newest ring bearers. Seven out of ten lanterns.

Green Lanterns #24 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 03:01:00 +0000

"I'm trapped in a terrible movie"

Green Lanterns #24 bring the three part "Lost in Space" story to an end, setting the series up for Volthoom's big plans to take center stage. While the plot is pretty paint by numbers writer Sam Humphries does roll back the curtain on the second of the seven original Green Lanterns, a White Martian by the name of Z'kran Z'Rann.

The training of Baz and Cruz eat up much of the issue and the whole thing is very, very predictable. Of course Jessica once again realizes that her will was there all along, just like Kilowog said it was. This has become a bit of a trope for this series and twenty four issues in it's unfortunate that we are not really any further along then we were a year ago. Humphries does the obvious thing and props up Simon and Jessica at the expense of Guy and Kyle, both who give in way too easy in order to give the characters their seal of approval.

I didn't find the introduction of Z'Krann Z'Rann is not nearly as interesting as Alitha in the previous issue and I'm hoping we get a little bit more than what Humphries gives us here. The idea that Z'Krann became a Green Lantern ten billion years ago was cringe worthy - that's more than twice as old as our sun is! Does Humprhies not know enough to do any research at all? He does nudge the Volthoom plot along significantly as the First Lantern keeps digging for information on where the original seven rings went. Of course one of them just happens to be the ring that Jessica is wearing - what are the odds!?

Twenty four issues in and frankly I've pretty much given up on this series. I don't find Jessica nearly as interesting as she was as Power Ring, and Simon has devolved as a character in my opinion. I honestly find the writing of the villains far superior to the what Humphries is doing with the protagonists and that's what I find myself clinging to. I really don't like being negative about anything to do with the Green Lantern universe, but at the end of the day I honestly feel like this whole Rebirth direction for the franchise comes from poorly made decisions about where the Green Lantern universe needs to go in order to be anything close to the quality and popularity it had in recent years.

Artistically the book looks fine, with Carlo Barberi doing to a good job overall. It's nothing spectacular, but it gets the job done.

Green Lanterns #24 limps to the finish line with an ending which props up the lead characters by giving them the "thumbs up" from the established Earth Lanterns. Five out of ten lanterns.

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #5 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 02:29:00 +0000

"I know a devious mind when I see it"

The BOOM! Studios crossover between the Planet of the Apes and Green Lantern nears the end in the recently released fifth issue. With the similarities between the Universal Ring and the Phantom Ring behind us the story sets itself up for the finale with a shocking turn of events.

Writer Justin Jordan pulls all of the elements together this issue while keeping the tension ratcheted up as all the Lanterns and the Apes clash on the battlefield, determined to gain the upper hand on the others. To be honest I'm finding the interaction between Grodd and Cornelius to be my favorite part of the series and this issue really shines a spotlight on their dynamic as the Universal Ring wielding Cornelius stands up to Grodd, defying him to the very end.

Zira makes a stand against Grodd

There's not really much of a plot to this particular installment and the issue's purpose seems to be just to get all the various elements of the series positioned where they need to be for the big ending. But that doesn't stop the book from being a fun experience despite the fact that it's a quick read. There's a lot of action and there's a moment which give this series some much needed dramatic punch. Beyond that there's really not much more to say.

I've struggled with the art on this series from the very start so I don't think there's much more to say at this point other than your opinion, positive or negative, on the event's visuals won't be changed either way with this issue. I'll give the art team points for consistency but I can't say that I'm a fan of either the primitive looking art style or the decisions made by the colorist.

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #5 is an action packed issue anchored by the most emotionally powerful moment of the series thus far. Seven out of ten lanterns.

Green Lantern September 2017 Solicitations

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 03:40:00 +0000

DC Comics has released their September 2017 solicitations and this looks like a big month for the Green Lantern franchise. Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz will finish out the Volthoom arc in their title while the Green Lantern Corps are dealing with the New Gods. The finale to the Justice League / Power Rangers series sees the final issue re-solicited and fans will finally get to see Hal Jordan and Oliver Queen back together again. There's also a Sinestro tie-in over in the Superman book among other things.

GREEN LANTERNS #30
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by CARLO BARBERI and MATT SANTORELLI
Cover by BRAD WALKER and DREW HENNESSY
Variant cover by BRANDON PETERSON
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details
“OUT OF TIME” part five! Jessica, Simon and the first seven bearers of green rings face Volthoom in the past as he holds the Guardians of the Universe hostage. As Lantern after Lantern falls, is there any chance of stopping the First Lantern from rewriting reality?
On sale SEPTEMBER 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

GREEN LANTERNS #31
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by CARLO BARBERI and MATT SANTORELLI
Cover by BRAD WALKER and DREW HENNESSY
Variant cover by BRANDON PETERSON
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details
“OUT OF TIME” finale! Simon Baz stands alone against Volthoom, the first and most powerful Lantern. It’s a battle of courage and will that changes both Baz and Volthoom forever.
On sale SEPTEMBER 20 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

HAL JORDAN AND THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #28
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover by RAFA SANDOVAL and JORDI TARRAGONA
Variant cover by TBD
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“FALL OF THE GODS” part three! Hal Jordan races through the cosmos hunting the speedster of the New Gods, Lightray! Hal must secure Highfather if the Green Lantern Corps’ plan to protect him and the universe has a chance of survival! Can the greatest pilot in the universe chase down a god who moves at the speed of light?
On sale SEPTEMBER 13 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

HAL JORDAN AND THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #29
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover by RAFA SANDOVAL and JORDI TARRAGONA
Variant cover by TBD
Retailers: This issues will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“FALL OF THE GODS” part four! The Green Lantern Corps draws the line between the Godkiller Robots and the Source Wall. If they give an inch, the Corps gets pushed into the wall and the Godkiller Robots pull Yuga Khan free, plunging the New Gods into devastation.
On sale SEPTEMBER 27 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

GREEN ARROW #30
Written by BENJAMIN PERCY
Art and cover by OTTO SCHMIDT
Variant cover by MIKE GRELL
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“HARD TRAVELING HERO” part five! The day Oliver Queen has dreaded for years has finally arrived: Green Arrow, DC’s most stubborn, most hotheaded hero, needs help from the last person he ever wanted to ask: Hal Jordan, who’ll give the Emerald Archer a lift to the stars in this stunning reunion that readers have demanded since REBIRTH began!
On sale SEPTEMBER 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+

GREEN ARROW #31
Written by BENJAMIN PERCY
Art and cover by OTTO SCHMIDT
Variant cover by MIKE GRELL
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“HARD TRAVELING HERO” finale! For a year Oliver Queen has been one step behind the Ninth Circle. Now he knows why: an orbiting fortress from which the super-villain financial empire secretly spies, steals, buys, sells and kills everyone and everything Green Arrow needs to defeat them. And. It. Is. Going. DOWN. It’ll take the whole Justice League to clean up the mess in this epic conclusion to the most star-studded GREEN ARROW story ever!
On sale SEPTEMBER 20 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+

JUSTICE LEAGUE #28
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and MATT BANNING
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“LEGACY” part three! An outside threat has followed the League’s children back from the future in order to destroy them. His name is Arthur Curry, and he will not stop until they are all dead!
On sale SEPTEMBER 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

JUSTICE LEAGUE #29
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and MATT BANNING
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“LEGACY” part four! The deadly motivation behind the League’s future children is revealed, and the League will have none of it. For the children have targeted a current League member for assassination! And it’s not at all who you think!
On sale SEPTEMBER 20 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

SUPERMAN #30
Written by PETER J. TOMASI, PATRICK GLEASON and KEITH CHAMPAGNE
Art by DOUG MAHNKE and JAIME MENDOZA
Cover by DOUG MAHNKE
Variant cover by JORGE JIMENEZ
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details. Issue #30’s story was previously solicited to appear in issue #29.
“FEAR ITSELF” part two! This looks like a job for...Sinestro?! Thrust into the anti-matter universe of Qward, Superman’s only hope is the former greatest of the Green Lanterns!
“Imperius lex!” It’s a game of thrones on Apokolips as the lords of the dreaded world battle each other to claim its rule. Lex Luthor is summoned back to the warring planet, and he will need Superman to help him reclaim a crown he did not ask for. Meanwhile, Lois is confronted by the Female Furies and Jon faces the Children of the Firepits.
On sale SEPTEMBER 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

JUSTICE LEAGUE/POWER RANGERS #6
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art by STEPHEN BYRNE
Cover by KARL KERSCHL
Retailers: This title is resolicited. All previous orders are canceled.
The Power Rangers have reclaimed their Power Coins and control of the Zords, but the battle is far from won. Brainiac’s treaty with Zedd has left their Earth in jeopardy—and without Zordon’s guidance, even their alliance with the Justice League may not be enough to save the day. Don’t miss the epic finale! Co-published with BOOM! Studios.
RESOLICIT • On sale SEPTEMBER 13 • 32 pg, FC, 6 of 6 • $3.99 US • RATED T

BATMAN: THE DAWNBREAKER #1
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
Cover by JASON FABOK
As the events of DARK NIGHTS: METAL rock the DC Universe, the creatures of the Dark Multiverse stand ready to invade our world! How can even the World’s Greatest Heroes stop a horde of deadly beings that appear to be powerful, nightmare versions of familiar figures? Find out in these special tie-in issues!
ADVANCE SOLICITED • ONE-SHOT • On sale OCTOBER 4 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US
FOIL-STAMPED COVER • RATED T+

JLA: THE NAIL/ANOTHER NAIL DELUXE EDITION HC
Written by ALAN DAVIS
Art by ALAN DAVIS and MARK FARMER
Cover by ALAN DAVIS
These Elseworlds tales from JLA: THE NAIL #1-3 and JLA: ANOTHER NAIL #1-3, collected in a single hardcover for the first time, examine the repercussions of a simple event as the Kents’ flat tire prevents them from discovering a small rocket ship with an alien baby inside it! As a result, the world’s greatest hero never comes to be. Without Superman as a symbol of integrity who inspires greatness, Batman, Wonder Woman, the Flash, Aquaman, the Atom and Green Lantern must battle public and interpersonal distrust as they attempt to work together to protect a world that fears them.
On sale OCTOBER 18 • 320 pg, FC, 7.0625” x 10.875”, $39.99 US

Podcast of Oa Episode 115

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 17:32:00 +0000

Training Day

Co-hosts Bill Giancoli and Myron Rumsey are back with episode 115 of The Podcast of Oa. This episode we are talking about the latest issues of the Green Lanterns series as Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz take on Dr. Polaris before making the journey to Mogo where Jessica has to undergo her training. Myron also shares some tidbits of information about Green Lantern including a great new fan created poster image and the character's appearance in the new opening to DC film universe.

The Podcast of Oa is the official podcast of The Blog of Oa and a proud member of the Comics Podcast Network. Share your comments and questions by calling the show’s voicemail line at 406-PODOFOA (406-763-6362) while Skype users can leave a voicemail on the show's account, blogofoa. Send your emails to greenlantern@stny.rr.com. You can also find the Blog and Podcast of Oa on Facebook and Google+.

The Podcast of Oa is sponsored by Heroes Your Mom Threw Out Comic Shop. Green Lantern and other related characters are the copyrighted property of DC Comics Inc. and are used without permission. The Blog of Oa and The Podcast of Oa are fan productions and do not claim any ownership over the Green Lantern or any other copyrighted properties.

Show Links:
Green Lantern poster (http://www.blogofoa.com/2017/05/fan-poster-captures-glory-of-corps.html)
Blog of Oa YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/Blogofoa)
The Podcast of Oa Soundcloud Page (https://soundcloud.com/podcastofoa)
The Podcast of Oa on Google Play Music (https://goo.gl/KAfEBA)
The Podcast of Oa on Tunein (http://tunein.com/radio/The-Podcast-of-Oa-p881651/)
The Podcast of Oa on Iheartradio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-The-Podcast-of-Oa-A-Green/)

Show Notes
00:00:00 Intro
00:02:12 News and Notes
00:15:54 Green Lanterns #18-21
00:32:55 Listener feedback
00:39:00 Green Lanterns #22-23
00:59:48 Closing

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #22 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 16:56:00 +0000

"Keep it tight and bright, Lanterns"

With the Green Lantern / Yellow Lantern alliance still standing on shaky ground Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #22 provides them with their first real outing. While Robert Venditti's story is pretty much a straightforward action piece there are two major subplots that serve as an undercurrent that illustrate how shaky the ground is that this arrangement is built upon. Sprinkled throughout are nice character flourishes that allow members of the cast to each have moments that will make their fans happy they signed on for another adventure.

"Fracture" part one is built on the groundwork that this series has developed over the past several months. Tomar-Tu is hiding a dark secret which threatens the very core of the dynamic between the two Corps and could very well destroy all the hard work that John Stewart and Soranik Natu have poured into getting these two groups to lay down their hostilities. The Hal Jordan led strike force does an effective job of handling Bolphunga's plans to rob the treasures stored on the planet Vault, seemingly showcasing just how well they can function together as a unit, but Tomar-Tu's shaken willpower really illustrates how fragile things really are.

That Tomar-Tu's secret is not confined to the knowledge of he and his partner is the primary threat to John Stewart's master plan, and by issue's end it becomes apparent that the murder of Romat-Ru is about to become a major problem for everyone. It makes you feel a little bad for John, who so clearly feels the burden of leadership. I thought that Venditti giving John that moment where he can acknowledge his relief was an important one for the character as he's so often portrayed rather one dimensionally and this showed that there is more going on emotionally beneath the stoic shell that he builds for himself.

John Stewart takes a rare moment for himself

Meanwhile Kyle Rayner is struggling to deal with Soranik Natu in light of his knowledge of their future progeny, a situation that leads Kyle to make an offer to Natu that could alter the timeline that he's understood from his experience wearing Rip Hunter's power ring. There's an irony that Kyle was the one pushing for them to get back together and now he seems to want to pump the brakes a little while Soranik is finally showing her own willingness to move forward. Their relationship is going to be tested in more ways than one and I'm interested in seeing how this one plays out.

This issue marks the welcome return of Ethan Van Sciver and as one might expect he elevates what is a pretty straight forward issue to feel like an event. Ethan's work is always very detailed and something you don't expect to see on a series that ships twice a month. Ethan's found ways to to use space to his advantage so that he can put more energy into providing the quality of work that defines his style into the elements that matter most. You can really see the love and respect he has for the Green Lantern universe pouring out of his pencils. Jason Wright is an unsung hero as his ability to blend color to add more definition and depth to Ethan's pencils takes what is already so great and takes it to the next level.

With dynamic scenes like this the art team continues to bring their A game

My respect for creative teams increases when I see that they have paid attention to what came before when others defined the universes they now create in, especially when they show they've done their homework. I really enjoyed that Venditti made references to Betrassus, homeworld of Princess Iolande, and Nellewel, the mining planet where the Green Lanterns faced off against the Khund back in 2013's Green Lantern Corps #22 and #23. But what really got me was the appearance of Myrwhydden in the sciencecells. Myrwhydden is a sorcerer first created by Gardner Fox and Gil Kane back in 1964 who hasn't been seen since a brief appearance in 2004's Justice League of America: Another Nail. It seems like a little thing but in the eyes of a long time reader I think it's important to make those kinds of nods back to the things which define the mythology you're writing about.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #22 is a fantastic start to another story arc for one of DC's best series. While the action takes center stage there's plenty going on that builds on the foundation that Robert Venditti has laid, and with the fantastic art team of Ethan Van Sciver and Jason Wright the book looks amazing. Nine out of ten lanterns.

Fan Poster Captures the Glory of the Corps

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Thu, 25 May 2017 21:25:00 +0000

Some of the things I love most about doing The Blog of Oa are interactions I have with people who I would never have had the opportunity to do so had I not created the site. Several months ago I was contacted by Eudocimus Ruber from France who posts on Deviant Art with the user name ClarkyBoingo. Eudo was looking for some direction for a rather ambitious project, a poster that featured all the Green Lanterns on it. Not just the current characters, but everything since the dawn of the Silver Age!

Eudo had apparently been working on this project off and on for three years, now that's willpower! Just recently he finished the poster and it looks great! Here's the image below which Eudo has given me permission to share with fellow fans - it's a really big image! Make sure to stop by the image over on Deviant Art where you can see all the great detail in the finished product - and make sure to let Eudo know what a fantastic job it is!

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #21 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Thu, 25 May 2017 20:36:00 +0000

"I don't get boxed in by facts"

We've had a terrific buildup to the conclusion of "Prism of Time" so far and this week's Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #21 aims to conclude the story by pitting Hal Jordan against the living embodiment of Krona's gauntlet while the Green and Yellow Lantern Corps do their best to hold off the mechanizations of Sarko on the surface of Mogo. Writer Robert Venditti is joined by artist V Ken Marion on the final chapter of the latest Green Lantern arc.

I think one of the Robert Venditti's greatest strengths with this series has been how he has found a voice for each of the four main Earth Lanterns. His understanding of what makes them tick is summed up nicely as Hal Jordan shares his observations with Rip Hunter during the journey to Sector 563. I enjoyed Venditti showing Hal having more going on between his ears than we've sometimes seen in the past and quite often it's easy to forget that Hal is more intellectual than he's given credit for when writers put all their focus on his unpredictable, roguish nature. So I really appreciated this issue giving a few panels to showcase that in a way that may help readers who may not have the history with these characters to see some of the great diversity that makes up the Green Lantern universe.

This issue continues to build up the tension as the clock seems to tick down on the surface of Mogo as the Lanterns there struggle against the overwhelming odds of the Prism Beasts. V Ken Marion does a really nice job of showcasing the emotions of Tomar-Tu as he essentially turns his back on his comrades who face death with a far braver face than him. We know there's an inner struggle going on inside Tomar's finned head and looking at the solicitations we know that his error in judgement is going to catch up with him sooner rather than later. Here we can clearly see that combination of shame and regret as Tomar watches John Stewart rally the rest of the Corps.

Tomar-Tu turns his back on the Green Lanterns

Venditti pulls the trigger on reigniting the Soranik Natu / Kyle Rayner romance full on as the two share an embrace before entering the fray. I do seriously hope that there's some sort of plan for Carol Ferris in the not too distant future because this particular elephant in the room gets larger and larger as time passes. While I loathed the whole Kyle/Carol romance I'd prefer it be addressed rather than swept under the rug or retconned out of existence. It'd be so easy at this point for she and Kyle to admit that the whole thing was a Star Sapphire induced fling out of necessity for Carol to use the ring and move on. I really, really want to see the moment when she finally has to ask Hal for forgiveness for the way she's treated him, not just in the relationship department but in how she always gave him such a hard time for putting his Green Lantern duties above Ferris Air now that she's gone and done the very same thing.

Getting back to this issue, Sarko's lineage is finally addressed head on and to me the unfortunate part of this plot point is that it was telegraphed so far in advance that there's no surprise value when the information is revealed formally. Where the issue does provide some emotional beats playing off of this comes in the closing moments when Venditti resolves the conflict and Kyle comes face to face with the resulting outcome. I can only imagine how Kyle will deal with this now that things have heated up with Soranik but I'm glad that Venditti has found a way to make Kyle more important in the series.

Kyle is about to learn what we've all suspected from the beginning

Regarding the conclusion to this arc's main conflict I wished we'd have gotten more out of it. The pacing seems off as we've had a nice build up and then the threat of Sarko feels very rushed and predictable. When last issue ended with the reveal of how Krona's gauntlet evolved I was really looked forward to something powerful in the finale. But in the end the fight ends before it really starts and I'm left feeling unsatisfied with how quickly it all ended. Sure Venditti leaves the door open to more with the gauntlet by teasing that it's not really over yet, but for the sake of this story we don't get a conclusion that rewards the reader given how much of a threat Sarko's plan is made out to be. I think the story would have been better served if the final battle had been drawn out more and given the room to breath it deserved.

V Ken Marion provides clean visuals and while his style isn't as detailed as Ethan Van Sciver's or have as much flair as Rafa Sandoval it does do the job. I appreciate that he pays attention to some of the thing that other artists goof up, like getting the ring logos consistent. It reminds me a little of Joe Staton during the Steve Englehart run in the mid-eighties with its straight to the point simplicity.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #21 ends the "Prism of Time" on a strong emotional note, but the conclusion feels rushed and slightly disappointing considering all the great build up that Robert Venditti put into the threat of Sarko up to this point. While the ending of the conflict is a bit of a let down there's plenty of great character moments and foreshadowing that makes this book a fun if predictable read. Eight out of ten lanterns.

Green Lantern August 2017 Solicitations

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 23 May 2017 01:50:00 +0000

DC Comics has released their comics solicitations for August 2017. Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz are trapped in time with the seven original ring bearers while Hal Jordan and Kyle Rayner are the line the in sand in a battle to defend the New Gods. Will this new meeting of the Corps and the New Gods tie back into the events of "Godhead"? If so - will we get to see Hal vs. Orion round two!?

Meanwhile Superman goes to Qward and his last hope comes from Sinestro!? That's sure to be an interesting read as Peter Tomasi and Doug Mahnke dip their toes back into the Green Lantern universe!

GREEN LANTERNS #28
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by EDUARDO PANSICA and JULIO FERREIRA
Cover by BRAD WALKER and DREW HENNESSEY
Variant cover by BRANDON PETERSON
“OUT OF TIME” part two! Simon and Jessica go from basic training on Mogo to training some of the first beings in the universe to wear green rings! Trapped in the past, the Green Lanterns of Earth must rally the first seven Lanterns to defeat a threat that could destroy the cosmos!
On sale AUGUST 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

GREEN LANTERNS #29
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by EDUARDO PANSICA and JULIO FERREIRA
Cover by BRAD WALKER and DREW HENNESSEY
Variant cover by BRANDON PETERSON
“OUT OF TIME” part three! The death of one of their own shakes the new Green Lanterns’ resolve. Simon and Jess step up to lead the charge that may be their only hope of ever returning home to their own time.
On sale AUGUST 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

HAL JORDAN & THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #26
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover RAFA SANDOVAL and JORDI TARRAGONA
Variant cover by TBD
“FALL OF THE GODS” part one! Ancient hunters awaken across the cosmos to end Highfather and the New Gods! Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps draw the line between gods, but that won’t stop the body count as the most powerful deities in the universe go to war.
On sale AUGUST 9 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 • RATED T

HAL JORDAN & THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #27
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover RAFA SANDOVAL and JORDI TARRAGONA
Variant cover by TBD
“FALL OF THE GODS” part two! Hal Jordan and Kyle Rayner face off against God Killers as they try to protect an injured Orion from certain death. As the battle turns against the Corps, will they have to sacrifice a New God to save an entire sector of space?
On sale AUGUST 23 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 • RATED T

SUPERMAN #28
Written by PETER J. TOMASI, PATRICK GLEASON and KEITH CHAMPAGNE
Art by DOUG MAHNKE and JAIME MENDOZA
Cover by DOUG MAHNKE
Variant cover by JORGE JIMENEZ
“FEAR ITSELF” part one! The writing team of Tomasi and Gleason are joined by co-writer Keith Champagne in a story that returns to their Green Lantern roots and asks the question “What scares Superman?”
On sale AUGUST 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

SUPERMAN #29
Written by PETER J. TOMASI, PATRICK GLEASON and KEITH CHAMPAGNE
Art by DOUG MAHNKE and JAIME MENDOZA
Cover by RYAN SOOK
Variant cover by JORGE JIMENEZ
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“FEAR ITSELF” part two! This looks like a job for...Sinestro?! Thrust into the anti-matter universe of Qward, Superman’s only hope is the former greatest of the Green Lanterns!
On sale AUGUST 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

JUSTICE LEAGUE #26
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and OCLAIR ALBERT
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“LEGACY” part one! A group of heroes from a post-apocalyptic future escape into the past to stop their world from coming to be. But to do it they’re going to need the help of the Justice League—who just happen to be these time travelers’ parents!
On sale AUGUST 2 • 32 pg, $2.99 US • RATED T

JUSTICE LEAGUE #27
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and OCLAIR ALBERT
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“LEGACY” part two! A massive metahuman war threatens to leave the future ripe for conquest by the despot known only as Sovereign. So warn the children of the Justice League, who have come back in time to save the world. But the term “blood feud” takes on new meaning when the younger heroes declare that for the crisis to be averted, one of the Justice League must die!
On sale AUGUST 16 • 32 pg, $2.99 US • RATED T

DARK NIGHTS: METAL #1
Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Art by GREG CAPULLO and DANNY MIKI
Foil-stamped embossed cover by GREG CAPULLO
Variant covers by ANDY KUBERT, JIM LEE and JOHN ROMITA JR.
The superstar BATMAN team of writer Scott Snyder and artist Greg Capullo reunite for a massive, universe-spanning event!
DARK NIGHTS: THE FORGE and THE CASTING hinted at dark corners of reality that have never been seen till now! Now, as DARK NIGHTS: METAL begins, the Dark Multiverse is revealed in all its devastating danger—and the threats it contains are coming for the DC Universe!
DARK NIGHTS: METAL is a DC event unlike any other—one that will push Batman, Superman and heroes of the Justice League beyond their limits to take on threats unlike any our world has ever seen! It will take the combined might of the World’s Greatest Heroes as you’ve never seen them before to face what’s coming their way!
“I’ve been planning METAL for as long as I’ve been writing Batman, but I want METAL to be built upon the stories happening now in Rebirth. Most of all we want to create new material that feels really modern and different. And above all, it’s going to be fun. Even with terror and nightmares, it won’t be grim. DARK NIGHTS: METAL will be celebratory, huge and crazy.” — SCOTT SNYDER
“I’m looking forward to rock’n and roll’n together again. Fans have been loud and clear; they want more from us. We’re primed and ready to blow it up.” — GREG CAPULLO
On sale AUGUST 16 • 32 pg, FC, 1 of 6, $4.99 US • RATED T+

Green Lanterns #23 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Fri, 19 May 2017 19:39:00 +0000

"The Emerald Sun is always up there...."

This week's Green Lanterns #23 takes what we knew about Green Lantern history and spins it on its head, revealing new information which challenges what we thought we knew about the origins of the Corps. This issue also tackles the training of Jessica Cruz head on while also showing Simon Baz challenged in ways he never has been before.

The majority of the issue is spent with Jessica and Simon as they face training at the hands of Green Lantern veterans Guy Gardner and Kyle Rayner. Guy channels his inner Kilowog in his approach to how he treats Jessica, pushing her just as hard mentally as physically. Cruz's inner monologue shows her disdain and lack of respect for her trainer, the usual trope we've come to see between a rookie and the hard nosed, grizzled, "you're not good enough" superior officer who's in the rookies face all the time. The sequence does no favor to the perception of Guy, however I fully expect writer Sam Humphries to show that Guy is only pushing her buttons so that she'll be better prepared for duty - that is the way of the trope. What was interesting was seeing Kilowog playing the role of the kindhearted mentor, showing Jessica that she has the strength in her all the time.

Simon's training at the hands of Kyle Rayner proved more interesting in my opinion as Kyle pushes Simon to challenge how he handles the ring, helping him see that the only limitation to its abilities are the ones he places on himself. I thought it was interesting that Simon was not changed to a "white circle" given he's also never gotten training, but it must be that his time as a Lantern has gotten him a pass. What will be an interesting development over the course of the next couple of issues is how Simon and Jessica react when they learn of John's new edict about pairing one Green and one Yellow Lantern per sector. Unless he makes an exception, which wouldn't set well with Soranik Natu's group, someone may be out of a job....or wearing a different color ring.

Jessica and Guy Gardner go all "Full Metal Jacket"

For me the most interesting part of this issue was the six pages where Rami/Volthoom reads through the notes Rami made during the creation of the rings. We learn of Rami's apparent betrayal of Volthoom and the forging of seven rings which predate the Manhunters. Humphries ties the first Green Lantern to the Third World. Not being as well versed on my Kirby as I would like to be I'm not sure how this parses with DC history so I'm taking this at face value. We see the origins of Alitha, the first person to don a Green Lantern power ring. We'll likely see the stories behind the other six over the course of the next few months, taking the story of Volthoom's revenge plot and turning it into a quest for the seven rings.

For those not familiar with Lantern lore this notion really undoes what we've come to know over the years. The history as we knew it was that the Green Lanterns were created in response to the malfunction of the Manhunters at the hands of Krona. Rori Dag, who's history made up our first Green Lantern 101 article found here, has always been considered the first until the "Sinestro Corps War" and the presentation of the biographies of a number of notable ring bearers. It was in the "Secret Files" issue that Rori's history was changed from being the first Green Lantern to "one of the founding" Green Lanterns. Whether he'll be included in the first seven or not remains to be seen.

Alitha makes her debut as the first Green Lantern

For me I'm trying to fit the pieces together and what I'm thinking at this early juncture is that for some reason the Guardians ditched the Green Lantern concept for the Manhunters, only to reverse course once again after their failure. Without knowing why it's hard to have much of an opinion but I sincerely hope that we get the detail that this warrants and readers deserve. I'd be sorely disappointed should we leave this tale behind having altered our perception of this fictional history with that kind of detail a part of it. So the jury's out on this part of the tale for me.

Eduardo Panseca's artwork looks solid as usual this issue. The characters' expression really help convey the emotions that Humphries' script calls for, and the peek into history as we witness Alitha's ascension to Green Lantern was as dramatic as one could hope for. There are a few blips on the radar like Kyle looking a little thick or the Green Lantern logo flipped ninety degrees on the power ring as it arrives on Galactica, but those are little things compared to how good the issue looks overall. Blond is the all-star this issue however as his coloring work is spectacular.

Green Lanterns #23 inserts a new chapter into the fabled Book of Oa which changes what we thought we knew about the origins of the Green Lantern Corps. Sam Humphries puts Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz through basic training, however those moments seem torn from the pages of the script of every military movie ever made. Seven out of ten lanterns.

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #4 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 16 May 2017 20:40:00 +0000

"I don't believe in luck"

While the Justice League / Mighty Morphin' Power Ranger crossover is being shelved mid-stream, the collaboration between BOOM! Studios and DC Comics on the Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern series is chugging right along. This week's fourth issue push the plot forward and sets the series up for a big showdown between the Green Lanterns, Sinestro, Cornelius' faction and the team up of Gorilla Grodd and the Red Lanterns. If that sounds like a lot of moving parts, it is, but fortunately Justin Jordan's script does a nice job of keeping all the balls in motion in a cohesive manner.

I really liked how this issue started out by giving us an interesting backstory for the Green Lantern whose ring was discovered last issue. Jordan pushes the narrative along by getting both Hal Jordan and Sinestro back into a state where they have power rings, a good move considering both characters would be under-served by entering the final two chapters essentially powerless. It also reunites Cornelius with Zira and his fellow Apes while sharing with readers Cornelius' ultimate vision where the universal rings are wielded by ape and man alike.

The lost Lantern gets a brief backstory

The sequence between Sinestro and Dr. Zaius does a nice job of giving some background on how the Green Lantern universe works, which is helpful for anyone reading this series from the Planet of the Apes side of things who may not be familiar. I love the condescension dripping off of Sinestro's tongue as he talks down to the the orangutan and how Zaius doesn't seem to realize he's being insulted.

Barnaby Bagenda has been pretty consistent with his artwork throughout the crossover so how you feel about his style will likely remain unchanged by this issue. I'm not personally a fan of it here, but I did find his portrayal of the Red Lantern versions of Cornelius and Zira to be particularly menacing. There's the ongoing white boot problem that has been persistent throughout the series, and in addition there's a scene where the power ring features prominently where the logo is rotated improperly. There's also some minor continuity problems with Cornelius, who switches back and forth between wearing boots and being barefoot. But none of those things are particularly distracting enough to take the reader out of the story.

Cornelius shares his vision of what he will do with the Universal Ring

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #4 is possibly the best issue of the series so far, moving the series into a showdown which will take center stage for the final two chapters. Justin Jordan's script keeps the story moving in an entertaining way while positioning all the moving parts to where they need to be. Seven out of ten lanterns.

Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds #6 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 16 May 2017 01:39:00 +0000

"Who's the New Guy?"

I've really enjoyed IDW's crossover between Star Trek and Green Lantern so the release of the last issue in their second outing one was that comes with the bittersweet acknowledgement that this is the end for now unless the series has sold well enough for a third one. As much fun as I've enjoyed the first two series I do hope that we get to see more from this pairing in the future.

We spoke with writer Mike Johnson in episode 114 of The Podcast of Oa and one of the things I said to Mike was how much I appreciated how he kept Kirk and Hal Jordan unique when there is so much in common with these two characters. In the series finale that line gets even more blurred as Kirk wields a power ring to help the Green Lanterns take on Khan and Sinestro. It was really fun to see Hal command the Enterprise during "The Spectrum War" and it was just as fun to see Kirk all decked out in a Green Lantern uniform brandishing his universe's first power ring.

Captain Kirk becomes his universe's First Lantern

As you'd probably expect this issue focuses on the final battle, but Johnson does leave the door open to further adventures. I like how Johnson has brought the origin of the Corps to the 23rd Century and the end of the series really seems more like the dawn of something new rather than the end. Johnson also does some fun foreshadowing on the final page, providing a wink and a nod that there are other elements of the DC Universe that may have a different history than the universe the Green Lanterns left behind.

Angel Hernandez provides a stable force with the series' visual look and for the most part everything looks fine. Sure the character design is slightly different than in the DC Universe proper but it is consistent throughout the series. I can live with Guy and John's odd hair style and Kilowog's face makeover, but I've always had a problem with white boots which the art team gives Guy Gardner. At least they are consistent with it, though!

Writer Mike Johnson sets things up for a hopeful third installment

Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds #6 provides an exciting conclusion to the second crossover between these two venerable science fiction franchises. Here's hoping the wait for a third installment isn't a five year mission. 9 out of ten lanterns.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #20 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 16 May 2017 00:44:00 +0000

"We're laying down our rings"

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #20 ratchets up the action for the third chapter of "The Prism of Time" as Hal Jordan tries to take out the Prism Beasts as John Stewart commands a full frontal assault to provide some much needed backup. As Hal connects the dots he and John come to the same conclusion as Hal is sent to deal with Sarko head on while the Green and Yellow Lanterns try to survive the onslaught of the Prism Beasts.

Robert Venditti continues to provide each of the main characters with moments that highlight their individual strengths. Hal's bravado is very apparent, as it John Stewart's calm strength and Guy Gardner's stubbornness. I don't think he's quite got Kyle's voice down yet and I hope over time that improves. There is a downside unfortunately and that's seeing great characters like Arisia and Kilowog constantly relegated to nothing more than background fodder. It reinforces to me that one of the problems with Rebirth is that, while trying to get to the core concepts of the DC Universe, the Green Lantern corner of it hasn't benefitted in the way that it should. There are just too many great characters shoved into this one series to make it as rewarding to readers as it could have with a smaller cast. I love this book but I can't help but think of how much better it would be if two of the main Earth Lanterns were off on their own.

John Stewart rallies the troops

When we first met Sarko last issue you could tell that Venditti was planting some seeds about the character's lineage. This issue he's drops more a big clue that is hard not to pick up on. I do think that tipping his hand so obviously lessens the impact on the reader when and if we get an on-panel revelation. I think I would have preferred to be read that moment as a surprise along with the characters rather than experience it as a confirmation of a foregone conclusion.

With this issue really focusing on action there isn't a lot happening in terms of plot progression, but given how much fun the issue is to read I don't really mind it one bit. The Green Lanterns are left in a lurch and it's up to Hal and Rip Hunter to save the day. I do really like what Venditti has come up with for Hal to have to deal with in this issue's final moments. It reminds me a little bit of a variation on the Oblivion character during the Kyle Rayner era, but with a twist. If indeed Hal is about to face something of his own making I think it'll be a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Sarko drops another clue about his parents which leaves little room for doubt about his lineage

Rafa Sandoval is back for this issue and as one might expect the issue looks gorgeous. There are some issues with Kilowog's proportions which really show up when they revert back to their civilian clothes. But otherwise the issue is another solid showing from Sandoval and the rest of the art team.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #20 feels like an action sequence from a big summer blockbuster. While the issue is light on plot development there's enough to keep the narrative moving forward while giving readers a fun experience. Eight out of ten lanterns.

Green Lanterns #22 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 10 May 2017 02:24:00 +0000

"Looks like they'll give anyone a green ring now"

It was only a matter of time before the Green Lanterns series would have to make some sort of connection with the greater Green Lantern universe and in Green Lanterns #22 readers ride along with Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz as they journey to Mogo.

Right away Jessica Cruz has issues with the notion of space travel, stopping short her trip to Mogo and leaving herself in a position where she has no idea where she is or how to make her way back home. There's a major flaw in the script as writer Sam Humphries refers to Earth being in Sector 2184 instead of the correct 2814. At first I thought it was a lettering error that slipped by the editors, but in seeing how Humphries crafts the dialogue when the ring tells Jessica how far from home she is the math indicates it was what he called for. I get that Humphries came to the series not well versed in the Lantern universe but at this point simple things like what sector his titular characters inhabit is hard to excuse - and harder yet to excuse the editors who didn't catch it, either.

While Jessica floats aimlessly in space, Simon shares a beer with Kilowog

I've got to get this off my chest as well - doesn't anyone at DC remember the Templar Guardians? This issue Ganthet claims that he and Sayd are all that are left - but there are more of them out there somewhere!

From a pacing perspective the arrival of Kyle Rayner appears to come from nowhere. We find out later than Simon sent Kyle to bring his partner in, allowing Baz to commiserate with Kilowog about his exploits on Earth. Jessica's experience is what one might expect, full of wonder and "gosh wow" moments. When Jessica learns that she must give up her lantern logo until she receives proper training she has a melt down of major proportions. Between her ranting and claiming to have been asking for training (when?) the whole sequence left a bad taste in my mouth.

But the bigger problem I have with the issue comes from the characterization of John Stewart. While John may think of Hal Jordan as a loose cannon he's far too much of a professional to make a disparaging remark like that in front of two junior corpsmen. That's bad leadership 101 and makes John look unworthy of the position he's in.

Ganthet and Sayd reunite with Rami

The arrival of Rami/Volthoom provides the only interesting moments of this issue as he at first thinks his cover is blown only to be taken in by Ganthet and Sayd. Neither Guardians see through the facade and Ganthet ends up ready and willing to provide Volthoom with Rami's notes on the creation of the power ring. Given one of the images from Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #13 showed an plethora of Volthoom style power rings it's a fair assumption to think that Volthoom is going to use the knowledge to make his own rings in the issues to come.

The art team does a pretty good job this issue, particularly in portraying the wonder of seeing all the various Green Lanterns flying about on Mogo. There are several cases of "white boot syndrome" but all in all the issue looks fine.

Green Lanterns #22 isn't a must read by any stretch of the imagination. Other than one minor plot point nothing happens and there are several things which should rub Green Lanterns fans the wrong way. Five out of ten lanterns.

Podcast of Oa Episode 114

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 10 May 2017 01:28:00 +0000

Trek to Oa

The Podcast of Oa welcomes back writer Mike Johnson from IDW Publishing in a one on one interview with co-host Myron Rumsey. Johnson is the writer of Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds, the sequel to the crossover event Star Trek / Green Lantern: The Spectrum War. Mike previously appeared in episode 91 of the show to talk about the first series and is back this time to talk about how the sequel expands on the story.

Show Links:
Crazy8Comics Podcast (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/crazy8comics/id1195629598?mt=2)
Blog of Oa YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/Blogofoa)
The Podcast of Oa Soundcloud Page (https://soundcloud.com/podcastofoa)
The Podcast of Oa on Google Play Music (https://goo.gl/KAfEBA)
The Podcast of Oa on Tunein (http://tunein.com/radio/The-Podcast-of-Oa-p881651/)
The Podcast of Oa on Iheartradio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-The-Podcast-of-Oa-A-Green/)

Show Notes
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:58 Conversation with Mike Johnson
00:38:43 Closing

Podcast of Oa Episode 113

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 02 May 2017 01:33:00 +0000

Back in Green and Black

Co-hosts Bill Giancoli and Myron Rumsey are back with episode 113 of The Podcast of Oa. This episode we are talking about the latest issues of Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps and the conclusion of the "Quest for Hope" storyline before jumping into the first chapter of "Prism of Time". Myron and Bill also discuss the second and third issues of the Green Lantern / Planet of the Apes crossover from BOOM! Studios.

Show Links:
Crazy8Comics Podcast (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/crazy8comics/id1195629598?mt=2)
Blog of Oa YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/Blogofoa)
The Podcast of Oa Soundcloud Page (https://soundcloud.com/podcastofoa)
The Podcast of Oa on Google Play Music (https://goo.gl/KAfEBA)
The Podcast of Oa on Tunein (http://tunein.com/radio/The-Podcast-of-Oa-p881651/)
The Podcast of Oa on Iheartradio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-The-Podcast-of-Oa-A-Green/)

Show Notes
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:26 Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #16-18
00:36:19 Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #2-3
00:49:11 Closing

Hal Jordan and The Green Lantern Corps #19 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 02:31:00 +0000

"I'm a doer"

With Rip Hunter's surprise return to the DC Universe last issue writer Robert Venditti has imbued "The Prism of Time" with an almost nostalgic feel of those classic Green Lantern adventures of old. The Green and Yellow Lantern Corps are faced with an opponent from the future whose goal is to make sure that their alliance doesn't destroy the legacy of Sinestro. This week's Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #19 serves as the second chapter of this four issue sci-fi driven arc.

Robert Venditti provides just the right amount of new information in this issue to keep readers interested in the plot while keeping a few of the best cards in his hand under wraps. The wonderful dynamic between Gorin-Sunn and Space Ape continues to play out as they get introduced to the story's antagonist. Sarko reveals some secret information about one of the two new partners that doesn't yet seem to be significant, but knowing how Venditti likes to write in long form storytelling I wouldn't be surprise to see this become more important down the road.

Venditti uses the fact that the Green Lanterns know nothing of Sarko as a way to organically have Rip Hunter and Sarko inform readers of everything they need to know about this new threat which I thought was very effective. Given what we learn of Sarko's motivations this issue, his familiar facial structure and his skin tone, I'm sure I'm not alone in thinking that Sarko is not only Korugarian but a descendant of Sinestro's as well. Combined with the banter between Soranik Natu and Kyle Rayner I would not at all be surprised if we learn that Sarko is Sinestro's grandson or great grandson.

Sarko begins to reveal why he's come back to 2017

The flirting between Kyle and Soranik is the first obvious statement that the whole Kyle Rayner / Carol Ferris romance is done and over, either through an off panel breakup or as a fortunate casualty of Rebirth's impact on the timeline. I for one am glad that particular experiment is behind us but I am interested in seeing how Venditti will tackle the Hal/Carol dynamic if and when he brings her into the fold. I really think the their breakup was poorly written and I'd like to see someone really give them a scene or two of real emotional honesty.

We finally get a name for the crystalline creatures that are under Sarko's command, Prism Beasts, who serve as the first salvo in Sarko's bid to break the alliance between the Corps. Hal has connected the dots about their point of origin and he alone takes them on head first in space as they head to Mogo, giving John Stewart the time he needs to formulate his strategy.

I like that Venditti is showing some repercussions of Hal leaving Krona's gauntlet behind, a plot thread that's been dangling since the Rebirth issue. What I'm not quite as keen on is the portrayal of Hal as irresponsible as he's been depicted for some time now. Sure he's impulsive and confident, but he's not one who'd intentionally leave something as dangerous as the gauntlet lying around for someone to find, especially now that he's got the Corps back and a place to securely stow it away.

Kyle tries to pick up where he left off with Soranik Natu

V. Ken Marion is back for another go round on art duty and by the looks of things he may be assigned to this book for the long term. Marion's recent appearance at C2E2 had him sporting a banner using artwork from the Corps splash page in this issue for his booth so I'm guessing he chose the artwork due to a long term assignment on the book. If so I'm hoping he's a third artist for the series rather than replacing anyone as I'm very fond of the work that Rafa Sandoval and Ethan Van Sciver have given us so far. Marion's work is solid to be certain and this is another good effort that showcases his abilities.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #19 is another solid chapter of one of DC's most consistently good series. There's some great action this week as well as some reveals that increases my interest in the story. Time travel tales can be a hairy proposition but Robert Venditti unsurprisingly has it all under control. Eight out of ten lanterns.

Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds #5 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 21:07:00 +0000

"The death of your dream"

As someone who's been a fan of both Star Trek and Green Lantern for a long, long time the idea of a crossover between the two has certainly entered my mind on multiple occasions. Both mythologies have so much richness that all it would take is the right writer to find the right balance between them. IDW's crossovers have proven that Mike Johnson is an excellent choice to bring these two beloved franchises together. In this week's penultimate chapter of Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds readers are treated to the same kind of action packed space thriller that I've dreamed of since I was eight years old.

I really need to give Johnson a great deal of credit with how much he is in touch with the Kirk/Spock/McCoy dynamic. Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry spoke of the triumvirate as representing three parts of the human mind, with Spock representing the logical mind or superego, Dr. McCoy representing the emotional heart or id and Kirk being the human spirit or ego who tries to find the balance between the other two. The opening pages really capture the essence of that relationship which has been at the core of some of Star Trek's greatest moments and it was a treat to see it play out as the three debate the best course of action.

Sinestro triumphant

Khan as a Red Lantern continues to brutally chew scenery this issue as he makes his way through Kronos leaving a trail of destruction and broken bodies in his wake. Having already killed Atrocitus he and his followers are no match for the Klingons as he reaches what is left of their leadership and makes an offer which could very well position him to once and for all have what he wants above all else.

Johnson brings all the players together on Oa and the craziness begins. While the battle between the Enterprise, the Klingons, the Manhunters, Sinestro and Khan rage on the Green Lanterns race to get to the central power battery and the Guardians of the Universe unleash their own prototype weapon. The pace of the story picks up with the turn of each page until we reach the end and Johnson unveils a moment that fans have likely wanted to see as much as Hal Jordan as the center seat of the Enterprise.

The Green Lanterns find the central power battery, but will they get to charge their rings in time!?

Angel Hernandez turns in another solid performance and with all the action that Johnson's script calls for it gives him a lot to do. I particularly like how Hernandez shifts from a more traditional panel layout to a more chaotic looking one when the the scene shifts to more frenetic action sequences. His depiction of a Parallax powered Sinestro constructs is very much on point with what we've seen on if the DC universe proper and Hernandez uses that to create some outstanding visuals.

Star Trek / Green Lantern: Stranger Worlds #5 is an exciting science fiction romp that will leave fans of either franchise happy. While I can't wait to see how Mike Johnson ends this story I'm sad thinking that there's only one more issue left. Ten out of ten lanterns.

Green Lanterns #21 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 02:29:00 +0000

"It's about to get weird out here"

The "Polarity" arc reaches its conclusion in this week's Green Lanterns #21 although it's not really as much a conclusion as a "to be continued somewhere down the road" ending which may leave readers unsatisfied. At the end of the day the arc serves to do little more than reintroduce Dr. Polaris into the DCU while giving Simon Baz some food for thought.

Sam Humphries' strength is in writing character and this whole arc has been a character study of Neal Emerson as he psychologically battles against his id driven Dr. Polaris persona. While this part of the story has been pretty good it's a little overkill for my personal tastes. Three issues in to what is essentially an origin tale would be fine with a character like Sinestro, but Emerson is no Sinestro. Polaris' turn would have been just as effectively told in one issue and maybe we could have gotten a more complete story out of the arc.

Simon tries his best to save Neal Emerson's brother Seth

Humphries finally give Simon Baz his due and we see how he struggles with his own experiences with Nazir's coma as he tries to bring forth another miracle by saving Seth. There are a couple of things that separate Baz's revival of Nazir from this, however, and despite all his best intentions Baz discovers he can't summon a miracle on demand. Bringing someone out of a coma that Simon has a deep emotional connection with is in the end far different from bringing someone you barely know back from a dead state. Baz's failure hits him hard and it was good character development during the denouement to see him reflect on it and the support he gets from Jessica Cruz.

Something that really bugged me about this issue, besides seeing a power ring say "Ready to rock", was the lack of continuity between this issue and the last. Last issue we saw John Stewart tell Isamot Kol and Vath Sarn to go back to Earth and escort the Green Lanterns and Rami back to Mogo. However Humphries has John appear at the end of the issue and pull the Lanterns from Earth by force with not a single mention of Rami. Does Humphries even pay attention to his own scripts?

The Watchtower nearly becomes collateral damage

Robson Rocha is back and his pencil work looks great throughout the entire book. He does a fantastic job conveying emotion which matches well with the melodrama that Humphries' story calls for. The scene where Simon tries to revive Seth is very strong as is the moment when Simon and Jessica charge their rings and the rescue of the Justice League Watchtower. The coloring was a bit too muted in my opinion and I don't think the color work was as a whole on par with the quality of the pencil work.

Green Lanterns #21 doesn't serve as a strong finish to the "Polarity" story arc which may leave readers underwhelmed. Despite good character work the narrative seems incomplete and rushes to the next story headlong, contradicting a subplot started in the last issue. Robson Rocha's looks great but the art alone isn't enough to save the issue. Six out of ten lanterns.

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #3 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 02:06:00 +0000

"I remember you too, furball"

After what was a shaky start Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #3 seems to be an improvement over the first two issues of the BOOM! Studios crossover event. While the story still presumes that the reader be familiar with both franchises this issue moves the story forward significantly and positions the major players for the second half of the story.

Sinestro lives up to his reputation by quickly adapting to this alternate timeline and by issue's end finds himself on higher ground than the Green Lanterns thanks to the presence of another trinket from our universe. Writer Justin Jordan leaves this revelation for the issue's final page and one has to wonder how it arrived there given that the ~~Phantom~~ Universal Ring was kept a big secret. Jordan will no doubt expound on the history behind this latest twist in the next issue but for now Sinestro has gained a significant advantage over Hal Jordan.

Sinestro gains the upper hand

Meanwhile Zira is helping to bring Hal Jordan to find Cornelius but the road is hard to travel given the status of humans on this world. Hampered by the plight of the humans Hal finds himself the clear underdog in a race against time with little resource to help him other than the handful of sympathizers and Nova.

Fortunately for Hal the cavalry is coming and they are bringing a friend. The addition of Gorilla Grodd to the story kind of comes out of nowhere considering there's not a lot of history between him and the Corps, but given the far out nature of the story you just have to go with it and enjoy the ride. They all arrive just as the Universal Ring wielding Cornelius is being confronted by General Ursus and his troops. The resulting battle is the focal point of the issue and it's crazy to see all the characters interacting in this bizarre battle until Grodd gets involved.

Guy, Arisia and Kilowog not only bring Grodd along but they unknowingly open the interdimensional door for the Red Lanterns who make their presence known by going straight after Cornelius with explosive results. All these elements make this issue a better read than the first two issues, partly because the similarities between the Universal Ring and the Phantom Ring take a back seat as Justin Jordan focuses more on the interplay between the characters while advancing the plot much more significantly.

The Green Lanterns enter the fray

While the script for this issue is a marked improvement I'm afraid I can't say the same for the artwork. Barnaby Bagenda's pencils are very loose and lacking in detail which makes it look like a rush job. This is compounded by lackluster coloring which does little to compliment the pencil work. The white boots are ever present and Arisia's hair color is far closer to Guy Gardner's than her blond locks. It's really a shame that the same care and effort that was put into the cover designs was spent on the internal artwork.

Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern #3 is an improvement over the two previous installments but still suffers from below average artwork. The good news is that the this issue significantly advances the story while being a fairly entertaining read but that's not enough to convince me to recommend this series yet. Six out of ten lanterns.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #18 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 21:44:00 +0000

"Can't believe I gotta be the adult here"

In Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #18 writer Robert Venditti launches the next arc in DC's foremost cosmic title. While giving us a glimpse at a new threat Venditti and artist V. Ken Marion also provide the first appearance of a fan favorite character who brings ominous news from the future which introduces a whole new mystery to be unraveled.

I'm glad to see Gorin-Sunn get more panel time as he is one of my favorite of the new lanterns that Venditti and former Green Lantern Corps writer Van Jensen introduced in the post-John era. The dynamic between Sunn and "Space Ape" are are a bit of a role reversal in that the Sinestro Corps member seems to be more of a protagonist in comparison to Sunn's not so sunny disposition. Between this and the recent actions of Tomar-Tu it certainly looks like Venditti is trying to provide some commentary about the Green Lanterns and their preconceptions. Their situation becomes dire when they encounter a strange new threat while investigating a temporal anomaly, a threat Venditti foreshadowed back in issue thirteen. I'm sure their appearance, and the veins of rock made up of dense will, are somehow tied to Krona's gauntlet given that Hal Jordan recognizes the location as being where he ditched it back in the Rebirth re-launch issue.

While the fates of Sunn and Space Ape are left up in the air their distrust is echoed even more strongly back on Mogo when the Green and Yellow Lanterns end up in a brawl. Venditti uses John Stewart to provide a voice of reason and re-examination of how we look at our enemies once our struggles have ended, again perhaps serving as commentary on recent events in the real world. John's observations aside the fracas erupts nonetheless until Guy Gardner and Arkillo, of all beings, inject rationale thought into the situation.

John Stewart is finding, like Hal, that leading the Corps when the universe isn't at stake is a bigger challenge.

The whole sequence on the surface level seems almost throwaway, but coupled with the Sunn-Space Ape situation and the mysterious disappearance of Romat-Ru last issue I believe that Venditti has something in mind that he's building up to. My first reaction is that we'll see Tomar-Tu's actions come to light and it will be the Green Lanterns who cause the relationship to turn sour when it's discovered that they are the ones who couldn't be trusted to take the high road with John and Soranik's grand plan.

With Kyle Rayner back as a regular part of the team Venditti takes no time in having him interact with Soranik Natu. Their interaction is very brief but there's a casual flirtatiousness about it that hints that there's more to come should these two be given the chance to rekindle their relationship. There's no such happy reunion for Saint Walker and the Blue Lanterns and he's once again charged with building his Corps from the ground up. There's a real sense of foreboding as Ganthet and Sayd briefly take stock of their contributions to the universe and realize that despite all they've done there is so much more beyond them.

The issue's conclusion brings about the return of Rip Hunter to the DC Universe in his first appearance since Rebirth. Rip's appearance is also tied to a temporal anomaly which leads me to wonder about any connection between Hunter and the crystalline beings that Sunn and Space Ape encounter in the opening sequence of the issue. Hunter brings news to the Mogo from the future and it's not good news either. Perhaps tied to the interference with Kyle's attempt to resurrect the Blue Lanterns someone is also erasing the Green Lanterns from the future.

Saint Walker must rebuild the Blue Lantern Corps anew.

All in all this is a nice setup issue that introduces so interesting new challenges for our heroes while continuing to build on the solid foundation that Robert Venditti has established on this series. There's a lot happening in this series for those who pay attention to the details while Venditti does a good job of making sure that those layers don't muddy the straight forward science fiction action elements that serve as the core of the Green Lantern franchise.

V. Ken Marion does a nice job overall with the pencil work on this issue. There are some proportion issues here and there but nothing which takes too much away from the overall reading experience. Denei Ribeiro's colors are a little less vibrant that what we've seen so far in this series, but everything still looks good overall.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #18 hints that there are some major events looming over the horizon while setting readers up for the next chapter of Robert Venditti's space opera. There are plenty of things in motion but it never feels overwhelming thanks to Venditti's ability to juggle all the moving pieces. Eight out of ten lanterns.

Green Lantern July 2017 Comics Solicitations

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 21:16:00 +0000

DC Comics has released their comics solicitations for July 2017. Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz are going to do some time travelling as the history of Volthoom takes center stage and it looks like the alliance between the Green and Yellow Lanterns is coming to an end. It also looks like Hal Jordan is going to be a part of DC's summer event plans with his appearance in "Dark Days: The Casting" and this month wraps up the BOOM! Studios Planet of the Apes / Green Lantern crossover.

GREEN LANTERNS #26
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by RONAN CLIQUET
Cover by MIKE McKONE
Variant cover by EMANUELA LUPACCHINO
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“OUT OF TIME” part one! Ten billion years ago, Volthoom nearly wiped out the Guardians of the Universe. What power was able to stop him, and where did it go? Learn more about the history of the First Lantern as “Out of Time” begins!
On sale JULY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

GREEN LANTERNS #27
Written by SAM HUMPHRIES
Art by RONAN CLIQUET
Cover by BRAD WALKER and DREW HENNESSEY
Variant cover by EMANUELA LUPACCHINO
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“OUT OF TIME” part two! Cast back in time, Jessica and Simon must survive on the savage Earth of ten billion years ago! With a single ring
between them, can the Emerald Knights locate the first Green Lanterns?
On sale JULY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T

HAL JORDAN & THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #24
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
Variant cover by KEVIN NOWLAN
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“FRACTURES” part three! Secrets are out and battle lines are drawn. The partnership of the Green Lantern Corps and the Sinestro Corps begins to crumble before it explodes!
On sale JULY 12 • 32 pg, $2.99 • FC • RATED T

HAL JORDAN & THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS #25
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and cover by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
Variant cover by KEVIN NOWLAN
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“FRACTURES” part four! In this extra-sized issue, it’s Lantern vs. Lantern as the GLC and Sinestro Corps duke it out over the murder of Sinestro Corps members. And a Lantern turns his back on their friends, embracing the darkness.
On sale JULY 26 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

DARK DAYS: THE CASTING #1
Written by SCOTT SNYDER and JAMES TYNION IV
Art by JIM LEE, ANDY KUBERT, JOHN ROMITA JR. and others
Cover by JIM LEE and SCOTT WILLIAMS
Variant cover by ANDY KUBERT
Variant cover by JOHN ROMITA JR.
Retailers: This issue will ship with three covers. Please see the order form for details. Includes a code for a free digital download of this issue.
The Joker's surprise attack threatens to lay waste to all of Batman's carefully laid plans. Will the Dark Knight be able to regain the trust of his closest allies, Green Lantern and Duke, and prevent the forces of darkness from consuming the DC Universe?! Will Hawkman's warning stop our heroes from peering into the abyss?
The great comics event of summer 2017 is on its way, courtesy of superstar writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV with art by a master class of comics artists: Andy Kubert, Jim Lee and John Romita Jr.!
ONE-SHOT • On sale JULY 12 • 40 pg, FC, card-stock cover, $4.99 US • RATED T+

JUSTICE LEAGUE #24
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and OCLAIR ALBERT
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“AFTERLIVES” part three! Our heroes’ mission into the afterlife goes horribly wrong when the Demons Three trap the Justice League in a hellish realm where they’re haunted and tortured by the ghosts of fallen heroes, dead villains and innocent civilians whose lives they failed to save.
On sale JULY 5 • 32 pg, $2.99 US • FC, RATED T

JUSTICE LEAGUE #25
Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and OCLAIR ALBERT
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
Variant cover by NICK BRADSHAW
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
“AFTERLIVES” part four! With the Justice League locked out of reality, the secret mastermind behind their predicament makes his move on the world of the living. Luckily (or unluckily), the JL is trapped in the afterlife with Felix Faust, who works with the heroes to fight their way out of limbo! The team-up no one saw coming kicks off in this extra-sized epic!
On sale JULY 19 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

PLANET OF APES / GREEN LANTERN #6
Written by Robbie Thompson, Justin Jordan
Art by Barnaby Bagenda
Cover by Dan Mora
The battle has infected Ape City. Cornelius’ army of empowered mutants and apes lay waste to Grodd’s Gorilla Army and Red Lanterns. This world’s only hope lies with Hal Jordan and Sinestro, who must work together to save Cornelius from the corruption of the Universal Ring.
$3.99 US • RATED T

Movie Poster Variant Cover

Classic Cover Variant

Vintage Action Figure Variant

Green Lantern Corps - What we know so far

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 19:33:00 +0000

News and rumors about the 2020 Green Lantern Corps movie have slowed down in the past month and with Warner Brothers focusing squarely on the release of Wonder Woman and Justice League it's fair to say that we likely aren't going to get any announcements soon about the GL film that would distract the public from those two highly anticipated movies. Now that the dust has settled it seems like a good time to summarize what little is known for certain at this point and how it fits with some of the rumors that have been circulating for months.

The script and release date

David Goyer

Deadline exclusively reported in January that David Goyer and Justin Rhodes are collaborating on a script for Green Lantern Corps, based on a story by Goyer and Geoff Johns. Goyer is set to be the film's producer with Geoff Johns being one of the executive producers. The script will focus on Hal Jordan and John Stewart with a Lethal Weapon feel. What exactly Deadline means is unknown and many have taken this description quite literally including the age differential between Murtaugh and Riggs. As someone who pitched this idea a little over three years ago my own take was purely on the dynamic between partners, one rule breaker and one by the book type and in my own opinion Warner Brothers would be better served showing both characters in their prime rather than age one of them.

An interesting point in the Deadline article is their use of the phrase that the studio is "moving aggressively" with the film. This dovetails nicely with a report from Digital Spy which reported on comments from a reporter from Variety that, with the DCEU slate of films being pushed back, the studio included Green Lantern Corps in a short list of films that may move up the batting order to keep the DCEU moving ahead. With that in mind, casting becomes a priority.

Casting

Many people, myself included, bought into the notion of Chris Pine taking on the Hal Jordan role. For me it was how much Pine's version of Captain Kirk in the new Star Trek films is taken from the Hal Jordan mold. But Pine has gone on record as saying he isn't really interested in the superhero movie genre beyond his role as Steve Trevor in this summer's Wonder Woman.

January's report from The Wrap indicated that WB internally had a list of six actors they have in mind for Hal Jordan. While the article indicated that were no talks going on with any of the actors, fans have been weighing in on two names in particular: Ryan Reynolds and Armie Hammer. We Got This Covered, in corroborating the story, added actor James Marsden to that list.

Fan art showing Hammer as Hal Jordan

Hammer has gone to the extent of teasing fans on the Internet about the role, as has his former Man From U.N.C.L.E. co-star, Henry Cavill. When Hammer and Geoff Johns followed each other on Twitter it created quite a buzz and seems to point to Hammer playing some sort of role in the DCEU.

Things are much quieter with regards to the casting of John Stewart. Both Andre Gordon and Tyrese Gibson have used social media to connect their names with the role, but no reliable media outlet has yet to come forward with anything beyond speculation and actor's online efforts to promote themselves for the role.

The Justice League factor

Fans have been vocal about the absence of Green Lantern as a founding member of the Justice League when the movie reaches theaters this fall. Media outlet The Wrap reported that a Green Lantern does appear in a key sequence of the film with reporter Umberto Gonzalez saying later via Periscope that he couldn't remember the name of the Corps member, implying that it isn't Hal or John as he's very aware of both those characters. This of course has led many to think that Abin Sur may arrive on Earth during Steppenwolf's attack and die during the course of battle, logically giving us a much abbreviated Hal Jordan origin scene. This makes sense when thinking on the Armie Hammer situation knowing that Jason Momoa held onto the secret of his Aquaman casting for well over a year.

Sources: Deadline, Digital Spy, Cosmic Book News, The Wrap, Sports Betting Dime, We Got This Covered

Green Lanterns #20 Review

noreply@blogger.com (Blogofoa) — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 21:39:00 +0000

"Fall down seven times, stand up eight"

Part two of "The Green Impurity" was released this week with Sam Humphries and Eduardo Panseca on board for issue twenty of the Green Lanterns series. With Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz sinking fast it appears that Neal Emerson, aka Dr. Polaris, may have won the day, but of course not everything goes as planned for the master of magnetism as the opening panels of this issue convey.

While one might expect that Jessica Cruz would panic under the circumstances, after all she did loose it against a guy with a gun and a western hat, it's Simon Baz who freaks out this time. It's pretty uncharacteristic for Baz to lose control like this considering all he's been through since he got his power ring, but that's the choice Humphries makes in order to create a moment where Jessica can prove her value to the team and it's Cruz who saves the day.

This time Simon Baz is the team liability when he can't find the will to break free from Dr. Polaris' trap.

The issue spends most of its panels adding more detail to Emerson and drawing comparisons between him and Baz as the latter reflects on the status of his relationship with his best friend and brother-in-law, Nazir. While Baz's flashback does a good job of showing how Simon is trying to figure out the new dynamic between Nazir and himself, the bits with Dr. Polaris seem like overkill after the exposition we already got in the previous issue. It does showcase the mental battle between Emerson and his villainous persona but it does so at the expense of sucking the momentum out of the story due to how much time is devoted to it.

The most interesting part of the story to me was the all too brief scene that takes place in space orbiting Mogo as John Stewart, Guy Gardner, Vath Sarn, Isamot Kol, Ganthet and Sayd discuss Sarn and Kol's recent trip to Earth. Rami's presence is revealed and John Stewart sets actions in motion that will lead the Green Lantern Corps on a collision course with Volthoom. I'm drawn back to Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #13 where we see a number of Volthoom rings flying through space and thinking that somehow that's tied to the Rami/Volthoom plot in this series.

Will this lead to the first Green Lanterns / Hal Jordan and the GLC crossover?

Eduardo Panseca turns in another fine effort this issue and once again his ability to convey emotion serves as one of this issue's greatest strengths. Besides some other Green Lanterns Panseca gets to draw Cyborg in another quick cameo which allows us to see his interpretations of them. Blond does another find job with the colors in the issue, and his shift in coloring for the flashbacks nicely conveys the shift in time to the reader to prevent any confusion.

Green Lanterns #20 spends an abundance of time on character at the expense of moving the narrative forward in any significant fashion. With very little happening you could easily skip this issue and not miss anything. Seven out of ten lanterns.