Green Lantern: Revenge of The Green Lanterns Graphic Novel review.

Green Lantern Revenge of the Green Lanterns is the second collection of Geoff Johns relaunched 2005 Green Lantern series putting Hal Jordan once again back on the forefront of the Green Lantern title. In the this volume Hal teams up with old pal Oliver Queen/Green Arrowand later Batman before the main story of the book, the One Year Later event where Hal discovers the fellow Corps members he left for dead are alive. Collects Green Lantern #7 - 13 with art by Carlos Pacheco, Ethan Van Sciver, Ivan Reis. 

Following Hal from the events of his resurrection and in the Green Lantern mini series Rebirth and the first volume of the series No Fear where Hal re-establishes his life in Coast City and as pilot while facing off with enhanced versions of the Manhunter Androids, Shark and Hector Hammond.

While Volume One: No Fear takes time to establishes Hal Jordan as Green Lantern once again on earth, this follow up dives straight into the action with three different stories. Classic team up of Green Lantern and Green Arrow open the collection for the two part story "A Perfect Life". Crossing over with the events of Infinite Crisis, Hal and Oliver take on the son of world conquer Mongul, here to finish his father's quest of conquering earth and subjects the duo the effects of the Black Mercy, a parasitic vine attaching itself to its victim giving them their vision of a perfect life while slowly killing them. It was a joy to see this concept that was first created for Alan Moore's Superman story, For The Man Who Has Everything in Superman Annual #1 in 1985.

"Branded", the second story is another team up with none other than the Dark Knight himself as the pair track down the hit man with the ability to make his tattoos come to life. Batman calls Hal for assistance while using the opportunity to test him and reconcile their differences. It was a good short story one that was crafted well to bring these two very different heroes together for a villain that they were well matched for while the two mend their relationship.

After those two fun team up stories we get to the real draw of the book, Revenge of the Green Lanterns. With issue #10 as part of DC Comics One Year Later event all titles jumped ahead one year after the events of Infinite Crisis. The story is interesting as Hal must face the consequences of leaving his fellow Lantern's for dead during the events of Emerald Twilight, the mid nineties story arc that led up to Hal's death. In that story Coast City had been destroyed by Cyborg Superman and Mongul. Hal tries to use his powers to rebuild his hometown but the Guardians of the Universe, the leaders and founders of the Green Lantern Corps who reside on the planet Oa forbid the act. Enraged Hal travels to Oa to and is confronted with several fellow Green Lanterns whom he stole the rings from and left for dead in space. Hal later went on to kill other members of the Corps and becoming a villain.

On the discovery that one of the Lanterns he left for dead is survived Hal and Green Lantern Guy Gardner led an a rescue mission to find these Lost Lanterns. Hal deals with the outcome from fellow corps members who hate him for all that he has done, once destroying the Green Lanterns Corps. Hal has a lot to overcome since being reinstated as a member and to make up for past actions he seeks to led the rescue mission to help redeem himself and save those he thought he had killed. Hal has to come face to face with those he's left for dead in the past and no wants to rescue. There's tension in this final story arc of the collection is action packed and exciting with great art by Ivan Reis. At this early stage in the series writer Geoff Johns is building towards the second of what's known as his Green Lantern Trilogy; The Sinestro Corps War. I've read several trades of his run on the series and this volume makes me want to get into more of Green Lantern run.

Revenge of Green Lanterns is an exciting and thrilling follow up to the previous collection No Fear. This includes a better series of stories, but then Green Lantern Volume 1 followed Rebirth which had a lot to live up to. This second volume consists of a central theme of more personal stories as Hal dreams of his perfect life that can never happen and reaching out to Batman on an emotional level. But Hal's biggest challenge is to confront the consequences of his actions of the past, rescuing those he left for dead who can never forgive him, it's hard hitting. I've been really getting more into Green Lantern recently and this book was a great read. I feel that's a great Green Lantern book in-between the massive epics of the John's Green Lantern series. This was great and well worth checking out. It was a book I was very interested and intrigued by about a year ago and it was definitely worth it.

Green Arrow Sounds of Violence Review.

Sounds of Violence is the sequel to the previous ten issue story arc Quiver. Writer Kevin Smith follows up his critical and popular success that resurrected the legendary hero. This next chapter is a harrowing tale with a brand new villain. It is the second and final part of Smith's run on Green Arrow with art again by Phil Hester and Ande Parks. Oliver Queen/Green Arrow is adjusting to his new life and his focus is his family. new bizarre serial killer stalks the streets hunting costumed heroes. Collects Green Arrow #11-15.

After the massive story that revived the original Green Arrow, re-establishing him as a more popular character. Smith had one more story to tell, that of a serial killer known as Onomatopoeia that is stalking costumed heroes, just as Oliver adapts to his new life with his family, his son Conor Hawke, his ex-girlfriend Dinah Lance and his new ward Mia Dearden are now his focus in his new life. He is getting to know his son Connor better and attempts to patch things up with Dinah Lance/Black Canary while Mia fantasies and wants to become Green Arrow's new sidekick, the new Speedy but Oliver's has deep reservations. He explains how things are so much more different in the old days when most superhero's had teenage sidekicks. His reluctance mirrors the upcoming threat.

Oliver and his closet loved ones are a potential targets for a enigmatic serial killer stalking non super-powered costumed heroes. Keeping consistent with the Mike Grell days, when his family is threatened, Green Arrow responds with equivalent force. New character Onomatopoeia quickly establishes himself as a lethal adversary. He is a creepy and unsettling villain. He is as mysterious throughout the story as he first meet him, Smith never reveals much about he character. It maintains the focus on Oliver and his family. The villain later returned as a adversary for Batman in both Smith's limited series Batman: Cacophony and its sequel Batman: The Widening Gyre. The original painted covers by Matt Wagner from the series are featured here in all their glory. While the last volume featured a miniature cover gallery on back few pages this book features each cover of the collected issues on a full page.The Kevin Smith 15 issue Green Arrow run has recently been released in as a Absolute Edition, a larger over-sized volume with bonus material.

Both Quiver and The Sounds of Violence were the ­final Green Arrow book's I was interested in, getting into the classic Green Arrow stories of the last few decades before or if I ever make the move to modern New 52 Green Arrow stories. I'm a huge fan of the Arrow TV series as a contemporary telling of stories featuring the Emerald Archer.

Sounds of Violence second Green Arrow Kevin Smith back into print that's a shorter read but is still an exciting story of Smith's acclaimed work on the character that's a bit more open and an accessible story. Green Arrow has seen a resurgence in popularity in last few years and Smith's is one of the many great runs on the character's long history. Smith revived Green Arrow in 2001 in the Quiver story line and this follow up puts new focus to what Oliver Queen's new life is all about family. This establishing of the family theme carried onto the next story arc when thriller novelist Brad Meltzer took over the series for a story that involved a member of Oliver's family that was absent in this story, his first ward Roy Harper/Arsenal spending time on together on road trip in the story Archer's Quest.

Sounds of Violence is less heavy on the dialogue than the Quiver story arc and it maintains the same tone and has more action. Its more adult than a lot of superhero comics with its darker themes and emotional and intense moments of drama breaking the usual mold in many ways. Sounds of Violence is a great story and follow up to Quiver, sharp, funny and chilling and with moments of tremendous tension at times.

Green Arrow Quiver Review.

Green Arrow Quiver was the phenomenal first story arc by acclaimed filmmaker Kevin Smith that re-launched the series after its cancellation. Oliver Queen was brought back from the dead and made Green Arrow once again. This collection features the first ten issues of best selling series by Smith with art by Phil Hester and Inker Ande Parks. This new edition was released after the Deluxe Edition of Smith's 15 issue run which was due for release last year was cancelled. Both story arcs have been re-released in trade paperback format with Sounds of Violence next on my reading list. Quiver is regarded as one of the best Green Arrow stories, a classic and thankfully now back in print since April.

Way back in Green Arrow #101 of October 1995,

Oliver Queen had died saving Metropolis from a terrorist attack and his son and Connor Hawke had taken over the mantle and remained so until the series was cancelled in 1998. Then in 2001, Oliver Queen was revived and was Green Arrow once more, but it wasn't all as it appeared. Oliver was back, taking down bad guys and protecting Star City but the mystery surrounding his return and apparent demise is what garners most attention from his Justice League colleagues and intrigue for the story.

The opening issue is a prelude of events to come and predominantly features the loved ones of Green Arrow, remembering what Oliver meant to his ex-sidekick and adopted son Roy Harper/Arsenal, ex-girlfriend Dinah Lance/Black Canary and his son Connor Hawke. All reminisce about him and what they meant to them, this exposition fills the reader in on some of history and interactions with each of them, recounting moments from their past that informs the reader about the character without him being present on the page. Green Arrow Oliver Queen makes his triumphant return as Star City's protector taking down corrupt city officials and drug dealers and his on the hunt for the Star City Slayer, a child killer and later he goes further down to path to discovery of what happened to him. It's a interesting and great read, Oliver has no recollection of the past decade, his last memory is the infamous road trip he and Hal Jordan/Green Lantern had undertaken. The interesting premise of his memory lapse adds more depth and weight as Oliver has no recollection of what good and harm he's caused in his past to his loved ones and who is gonna break it to him that his best friend Hal is dead. It even restores his personality to that of the old fashioned view of the character had decades ago. His Justice League colleagues are in shock and amazement of his return, Batman is less sentimental, taking a direct role into the mystery of Oliver's return. The serial killer subplot runs in the background without Oliver's influence as he goes further down to road to discovering what's going on with him, but ultimately both elements tie together near the end story. Both the main story and subplot do feature elements of the supernatural, its a both nice addition and surprise to story, due to the theme of resurrection of a character in a series starring non super powered and realistic hero. Mia Dearden is a new character to the series and DC Universe, this marks here first appearance and is introduced as a teenage prostitute who Green Arrow saves on his earliest ventures actions into resuming his role as protector of Star City. She's a character that's notable in the Green Arrow mythos of this age. 

The story does acknowledge several events in the DC Universe but the important ones are explained in this book, as they are part of the story. The opening of the book features two key moments that start off the story a discussion between Superman and Batman on the rooftop of the Daily Planet during the events of Final Night, where earth's sun was extinguished by the Sun Eater, an extraterrestrial being and the event of Zero Hour in which Hal Jordan /Green Lantern had gone insane and possessed vowing to destroying the Universe in which the Emerald Archer played a key role. The art that I enjoyed so much when I first read Green Arrow Vol. 3 The Archer's Quest is still great here. Hester and Parks work is a light cartoon style that balances the dark story. Its a humorous and enjoyable story, Smith does a good job to get a few laughs. There is some great action panels in between the dialogue heavy story that's both complex and interesting, a character piece just as much as its a comic book action adventure story about second chances.

The ten issue story arc sold over a million copies back in 2001 - 2002 and became a number one selling tittle, a testament to how great the story is, Smith's tale paid homage to other Green Arrow creators of the past. It revived the old fashioned approach to Green Arrow, his amnesia reverted his personality back to a more classic iteration along with his classic trick arrows. Smiths writing is humorous and in the right moments somewhat self aware of the absurdity of some scenes.The book that I wanted since I got into the character but had been out of print and almost released last year only to be cancelled. Green Arrow Quiver lives up to the hype and reputation, a fresh spin on the character on that's been revived in a great story for a new series. Batman has a supporting role in the story and almost steals the show at some points, Smith writes the Dark Knight so well and went on to do later in career writing two limited series. I knew I'd enjoy the story to some degree been such a huge fan of Smith's previous comic book tenure Daredevil: Guardian Devil, but Quiver is a great comic book story that does what all great resurrection stories do reviving the character while touching on their long history.

Quiver rightfully held in high regard in a great story with some fantastic characterization and great dialogue makes it all a highly enjoyable read. Its arguably one of the best written stories in DC Comics history and managed to propel Green Arrow to the number one selling title for the company at the time. It goes beyond the standard revival story of and old hero, it tells a well thought out and plotted story without a retcon to continuity returning Oliver Queen back to the DC Universe.

New Graphic Novel reviews, Green Arrow: Road to Jericho, Batman: Zero Year-Secret City Volume 4 and Blackest Night

Hello all,

Few new book reviews, Green Arrow: Road to Jericho, Batman: Zero Year-Secret City Volume 4 and Blackest Night.

Batman Volume 4 Zero Year - Secret City

Batman Zero Year is a new take of the Batman origin. Since the New 52 relaunch DC Comics has changed, it has altered and modernized many of its heroes and villains in the DC Universe. Batman Volume 4 collects issues #21- 24, the first half of the Zero Year story arc.

Initially conceptualized as a Batman story line, that was announced in November 2013 and several titles would tie in directly to the "Zero Year" story arc. Writers of various titles in The New 52 were given the opportunity of writing a tie-in that would include their connections to Gotham City and first encounter with Batman. The Flash, Green Arrow, The Green Lantern Corps and Superman along with others in the Batman line, Batgirl, Batwing, Batwoman, Birds of Prey, Catwoman, Detective Comics, Nightwing, and Red Hood and the Outlaws all feature a tie in.

The Batman origin story has been told many times; most notably in 1987 by Frank Miller's and Dave Mazzucelli's Batman: Year One. This tale is hugely influential and that's still evident here in this modern retelling of the Batman origin story, along with the Batman Begins film of 2005 and more recently in comics the alternate origin story within Batman Earth One. Some would say the notion of redoing an origin over Miller's classic was untouchable. When I first learned that the next story arc in the New 52 Batman comics was going to re-tell the origin story, I felt unfavorable to the concept, the previous three aforementioned stories had been so well established in my mind. I loved the movie which was the reason that got me into comics and the Batman Earth One and Year One stories are two of my favorite Batman graphic novels and the latter my first graphic novel, if I didn't enjoy it I wasn't sure comics would have been for me, but I loved it hugely and continued getting into Batman books. Batman Earth One was an alternate origin told by one of my favorite and the best modern comic book writers Geoff Johns.

After Scott Snyder's and Greg Capullo's hugely successful and critically acclaimed run on Batman, the Owls saga; Court of the Owls and City of the Owls were a completely new facet and antagonist for the Batman. The idea of the city being as big a character part of the story also exists here. Then later their take on the return of Batman's arch nemesis the Joker was a brilliant story and one of the best Joker stories ever. I loved it, how could they follow it up after telling the best Joker Batman story of recent times? I became interested to see their take of the origin story of Batman. 

Starting off with Bruce Wayne as costumed Batman, taking place six months earlier in a four page prologue in a unrecognizable savage Gotham City, our story then skips back to five months earlier which see’s Bruce in a disguise in the middle of an encounter with the Red Hood gang. With a bag full of gadgets and Alfred in his earpiece providing him with information, Bruce dangerously but successfully saves the hostages from the Red Hood gang. The gang consists of wealthy Gothamites blackmailed into joining the gang by it's leader Red Hood One. You later see the frustration as Bruce's initial attempts at being a vigilante are failing, he has the skills, the methods and the gadgets, but some element is missing. Its not working. Where as Miller's Year One was a decidedly low tech Batman, Snyder’s is quite the opposite, Bruce is determined to take on the gang that is the biggest threat to Gotham. As the story progress you see that Bruce coming up short and needs to become the Batman. There are many familiar elements here that are consistent with the best known origin; young Bruce falling into the cave and the iconic moment of an injured Bruce seeing the omen of the bat and declaring "Yes Father I will become the Bat" straight from the pages of Miller's Batman Year One.

A Batman origin story is best when he takes on a non-super powered antagonist, like Carmine Falcone's and the mob in Year One. A great twist here in this tale is with the ever increasing gang of red hoods that can be anyone, anywhere. It's interesting to read throughout the story and notice the mannerisms and language of the leader of the gang, Red Hood One, it’s intriguing to see is this Red Hood, is he the man to destined to become the Joker? Is this his origin and beginning of his crime career? Before the Joker was never a factor in Batman's origin so this was a nice addition. This along with the backup stories at the end of the book showing up where Bruce got various types of training are nice bonus. Uncle Philip Kane is a new addition to history of Batman and his desire to have Bruce return to claim his place in the company, but yet his association with a certain somebody make his a suspicious individual. Jim Gordon plays less of a prominent role here as he did in previous origin stories; Year One, Earth One and Batman Begins. This first installment ends on an cliffhanger, it's likely that Batman Zero Year Dark City will feature the building of that partnership. Snyder’s earlier pre New 52 Batman: The Black Mirror was extremely reminiscent of Year One, getting to know Gordon and the bond between he and Batman. The Black Mirror is a one of the best modern Batman graphic novels and I would highly recommend you check it our, you won't be disappointed.

It doesn't go over all the same moments, a key component that is omitted is the is the shooting of the Wayne's in Crime Alley. Again, it's likely that in later issues in the next part of the arc will cover some of these important story elements. Its an intriguing to see a story that we've all been told before but in new and refreshing way. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's have already done exciting work on their Batman series. Although Batman’s Origin story is already so well known and legendary both in comic book form and live action, it is thrilling to see what these new creators would do with the already famous story. Although it may not have the same impact it’s a useful exercise in getting a new origin for a new generation. Exciting to see how these two creators would tell the origin story with their new twists and way of storytelling. Zero Year is especially praised for its unique spin on Batman’s origins, while also honoring the character’s history and spirit. 

How could you follow up the amazing Death of the Family story, that would be pretty hard to top, so taking it all back and tell a Batman story from the beginning was a stellar idea. If there is going to be a new origin for Batman it needs to be both retain familiar classic elements and well as new ones to make to stand out from the previous tales, and Batman Zero Year Dark City does just that and Snyder and Capullo were the right guys for the task. It is not a retelling of such origin stories like Batman:Year One but is a fresh take on the background of the Dark Knight.

Green Arrow Road to Jericho 

Road to Jericho is the 9th and final volume in this Green Arrow series collecting issues #66 -75 before Oliver featured in a new series with Dinah Lance titled Green Arrow/Black Canary.

What happened to Oliver Queen during the time before he became Mayor of Starling? Batman, Red Hood, Brick, Merlyn, Constatine Drakon, Deathstroke and the return of Black Canary all take place in this collection and finale. Road to Jerhico is a follow up that relies very heavily on the events of Green Arrow Crawling Through The Wreckage. The first three issues cover the events that took place preceding the events of the last volume. Oliver is again on an not so isolated island but this time he is here to improve on his training, this will only seem repetitive to the reader if they have recently read a origin story like Green Arrow Year One. The later story picks up from the last collection as Green Arrow teams up with Batman, as he comes to Starling City to track down the Red Hood.

The story opens on a wounded Oliver Queen and takes us back to fill in the blanks of the One Year Later event. Oliver, Mia and Conner are all on an island, Oliver feels the necessity to retrain himself and his partners to contend with the escalating threats they face. He has hired an assassin named Natas, the man who trained Deathstroke. These first three issues fill in the events of the year that Green Arrow was absent from Star City, as mentioned in the previous arc; Crawling Through The Wreckage. The rest of the story picks up where the last book left off. Oliver continues to deal with the crime in the Glades and as his role as Mayor. Things gets very interesting when Bruce Wayne shows up in StarCity and as Batman is on the trail of his former sidekick turned self styled vigilante the Red Hood. Writer Judd Winnick first created this character during his time writing Batman. I loved that aspect of this story, Batman Under the Red Hood is one of my favorite and one of the best animated Batman movies. The film is based on Judd Winick's Batman "Under the Hood" story arc and here you get to back to the character from Winnick's creation.The final arc follows Deathstroke and Drakon's escape from Alcatraz prison while continuing their feud with Green Arrow and these assassins are causing political difficulties for Mayor Queen.

A lot happens in this volume, from Oliver's time on the island to teaming up with Batman against the Red Hood, threats to his role as Mayor and the return of the two assassins seeking revenge against Green Arrow. The book and series ends on a high note. I liked the book the Red Hood arc was the most interesting to me and the great return of Deathstroke. Fascinating story and a great send off for this series. The book is very good full of great moments and the flashback to one year later missing events are just there to fill in the gap it serves a purpose within the story. The idea of a non powered superhero needing to retrain to be able to compete with the ever increasing threat of criminals was a worthy and thoughtful addition to the arc. I was extremely curious to what happened to Oliver during his time away along with to how is so skilled with a katana sword. Although the main draw of this volume presents itself later, the events the one year on the island was not a filler or wasted storytelling. Oliver and Dinah Lance/Black Canary are reunited and have a very personal reunion . A big part of Green Arrow is his true love Dinah Lance, and they share an intimate discussion about their love for each other, it's a pleasant change of pace for an action packed story. It is a worthy sequel to the events of Crawling Through The Wreckage so make sure and check that out first.

All in a all great book and one I was very much looking forward to with the inclusion of Batman and Red Hood featured in the for a segment of the story. Thrilling to get another face off between Green Arrow and worlds greatest assassin Deathstroke so shortly after their recent clash. It does feel like a grand finale of the series, all the stops are pulled out for this heroic showdown that has been building up to. My favorite moment of the end of the series the return of one very fan favorite arrow. The plot building in the background of recent issues of the series come into play in a grand finale. After the One Year Later events are revealed The Red Hood/Jason Todd, has come to Star City and Batman isn't far behind. The situation becomes one that will take the team of DC Comic's most recognizable vigilantes to handle. But with the likes of Brick, Merlyn, Drakon, and Deathstroke joining the fray in the aftermath, Green Arrow may have his work cut out for him. But all this action aside, the most important thing in this story is Ollie's relationships, most notably the one with long time lover, Dinah Lance/Black Canary. Great book with plenty to keep fans interested, action packed with quieter moments. Great end to a great series.

Blackest Night 

In the Blackest Night, the dead rise, the story that has been building for two years. Black Hand, a character that has been present in Green Lantern comics for some time and since Geoff Johns run has been preparing for his masters arrival for the Blackest Night. Across the Universe the dead have risen and are recruited into the Black Lantern Corps. Heroes and villains have risen for one purpose to extinguish life across the universe.This limited series collects the main story; Blackest Night issues # 0 - 8. It focuses on the events on earth and features various heroes of the Justice League while other aspects of the story being collected in Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps books. Other tie ins of the story are available, collected in other editions of the story.

The prophecy has arrived. Black rings descend and reanimate the dead, the prophecy that Hal Jordan’s predecessor Abin Sur had feared. The book gives a text introduction to what have happened before. The story begins with the main characters; Green Lantern Hal Jordan and Barry Allen/The Flash at the unmarked grave of Bruce Wayne/Batman. Barry, who has recently returned to life, is our point of view character at various points of the story including here where Hal fills him in how Batman died and what other heroes have passed away during Barry’s absence. Hal shows Barry all the heroes that have died in a double page spread using the power of his ring. So it helps the reader follow on what has transpired before this story.

Death is always something that was a big part of the DC Universe and now in the form of Nekron, the embodiment of death and leader of the Black Lantern’s poses the greatest threat to the Universe and all life. Many heroes like Superman, Green Arrow and the Flash have died and returned while others such as Arthur Curry/Aquaman and J’onn J’onzz/Martian Manhunter have been dead for some time. Earth’s heroes fend off the threat together. The dead just don’t return as mindless zombified versions but have a emotional response to those friends and colleagues they have targeted. As Barry Allen points out “Only the dead with emotional ties to people like us are rising. The rest are staying in their graves”.

Like Brad Meltzer’s Identity Crisis the story focuses on other heroes getting an opportunity to shine including Barry Allen/The Flash along with Aquaman’s wife Queen Mera, Ray Palmer/The Atom and the new Firestorm/Jason Rusch and Gehenna Hewitt. Although Hal is one the main characters in this book he is absent for a short time in the middle of the story as he must depart to fulfill his mission in order to help stop this threat on earth. His task is covered in collected edition of Green Lantern: Blackest Night. In the beginning of Part One, Hawkman and the Atom still dealing with the fallout events from the epic of Identity Crisis, this exemplifies how important of a story it is and some are referenced a few times. It is refreshing for a big event story like this where other heroes feature more prominently than the DC Trinity of Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman take a back seat in this story. But unlike Identity Crisis their presence isn't felt. There is a reference to how important these heroes are and at one point The Flash informs The Atom and Queen Mera that they must stand in for Superman and Wonder Woman in the event of this current threat.

Great that the story focus on Hal and Barry, the two most recently resurrected heroes in the DC Universe, both their “Rebirth’s” were written by Geoff Johns. Hal and Barry have both recently returned from the dead and with their former team mates so far being denied the same privilege. Aquaman, J’ohn J’onzz and others possibly harboring some resentment towards the duo.The Blackest Night has been two years in waiting, sometime big event comics don’t live up to the hype, lose their grasp or going off-road with story quality declining halfway. This does not, each chapter gets better and better while the quality of storytelling remains consistent and has the threat ever increasing going from bad to worse for our heroes. It’s a thrilling story full of amazing, shocking and one particularly very sad moment.The art is stunning, Ivan Reis who has previously worked on Green Lantern comics does some gruesome artwork and great double page spreads and some great crowd scenes. I'm now a new fan of his since his work on New 52 Justice League. I appreciated how the dead see the emotional spectrum aura of their victims and how it changes depending on their emotional state.

The story is filled with some great fanboy moments including one that was so big that was spoiled by DC Universe Classics Wave 17 action figures here. There are some revelations to change that mythos and what we thought we knew according to one of the Guardians of Universe. As within the Sinestro Corps War it was revealed that Oa was not the center of the universe, instead earth is and this story shines some light on to the reason why. As a Green Lantern, Hal Jordan has faced his two biggest challenges, The Sinestro Corps War and The Blackest Night, fear and death, both things Hal has overcome before and now with the Blackest Night he must face and defeat death once more. This is a big story that is open to analysis and interpretations. It is one of the biggest event stories in comics, it also feels like it would make a great movie, it action packed on a large scale. It was a momentous and epic story.The miniseries event from DC Comics does double-duty both as a line-wide DC crossover and another chapter in writer Geoff Johns's ongoing Green Lantern series that has both engaging with emotional depth.

That is it for now. Check back for more soon, including Flash: Rebirth, Batman: Birth of the Demon and Green Lantern/ Green Arrow collection.

K

My Collection: DC Universe Classics Wave 20 Green Arrow

I have always been a fan of the Green Arrow since I became first aware of the character in the first episode of Justice League Unlimited series, which he was a prominent figure in that episode. I have only been really getting into the character recently with the Arrow TV series and now that Season 2 is complete I've been getting into his best stories collected in various Graphic Novels. I’m highly anticipating its return in a few months for Season 3.



I became a huge fan of the TV series and I think it was one of the best shows on television. It is a great thriller action drama series that got better and better. It's brilliant. Since I stated my action figure collection I knew I would have liked a Green Arrow figure and then later on with the release of DC Universe Classics Wave 20 I knew that this was the figure that I wanted. The new look first appeared Into The Woods as part of the Brightest Day event. I made the purchase on eBay from Taiwan for a really good price. 

In the last few years Green Arrow has become one the characters in the DC Universe I became interested in. When he was introduced into to the Justice League Unlimited TV series I became a fan of this character. His views and want he did appealed to me and I always like heroes with no super powers that tackled street level crime like two of my other favorite comic book heroes; Batman & Daredevil.

Batman is the most popular comic book hero and when Green Arrow first appeared in More Fun Comics #73 in November 1941 he was intimation after the success of Batman. Oliver Queen, A wealthy playboy with no super powers instead fought crime with a wide array of gadgets/trick arrows, The Arrow Car, The Arrow Plane and a teenage sidekick - Speedy, he was very similar to Batman. He stared off as a knock off but then become distinctive in his own way the superhero community for his voice, views and controversial opinions. He became a important hero. 

In his first Justice League Unlimited episode he told Batman how he always strives to help the little guy and was reluctant to join the league. His political views differentiated him from other heroes. He is truly a socially conscious hero as displayed during Denny O' Neil and Neal Adams 1970’s series when he partnered with Hal Jordan/Green Lantern tackling the dangers of drug abuse, racism, pollution, corruption, and more. For a character deeply rooted in a capes and tights universe where the solution to everything is to punch it in the face, that’s pretty noteworthy.

Wave 9 Green Arrow

Since Wave 17 of Mattel’s DC Universe Classics, each wave was themed on a DC Comics story line. Wave 17 was based on character appearances from the Blackest Night and Wave 20 figures were themed on the Brightest Day event and each figure contained a piece to collect and connect to build the Nekron figure. Green Arrow is one of the very few figures to get a second sculpt released. His Silver Age inspired look was first introduced in Wave 9 and is considered one of the best figures of Mattel’s DC Universe Classics line of adult collector action figures and this new release of the Emerald Archer is shares that privilege.

There is so much detail and many things to love about this figure. Most superheroes wear a one piece suit with a cape and a chest logo. Heroes like Green Arrow with no powers rely on more than just their super abilities. I love the modern rendition of this figure and the loss of the underwear/trunks look. 

So many new details on this new look, smaller quiver, arm gauntlets with small arrows on them, the band and pouch on his leg. His new belt with pouches and updated G logo belt buckle. The knife on the back of his belt and the subtle detailing in the stitching in the lower part of his tunic and creased parts of his hood are all great on this figure. The bow and arrow accessory is just okay, it would have been nice to get a little bit of silver paint applied to the arrow. Like the Mattel's Wave 9 bow and arrow did but this is just one piece, but does the job and is looks okay. This is also a new head sculpt with a minor alternation, in the previous Green Arrow figure the hair was all underneath his hat but in this hooded version you can see small frays of hair on display above his mask. This new look figure still retains elements of his best know look, cross stitching on the vest, pointed shoulders and the wraps on the biceps and of course the hood. The hooded look first made its appearance in writer/artist Mike Grell’s run in the late 80’s. The hood look had been used times at the various parts in his career including 2007's Green Arrow: Year One and Judd Winick and Scott Daniel’s stories from 2006.The hood aspect has been retained in Green Arrow’s appearance in the New 52. As well as his other appearances in DC Animated Short Green Arrow, Young Justice animated series and both live action TV appearances. I still prefer this more natural look than the armored elements of his New 52 costume. 

DC Universe Classics called it a day 3 years after Wave 20. It was the final wave of figures to contain a Collect and Connect build a figure and the last numbered wave before it was renamed as All Stars with the first of the New 52 figures and later re-branded into DC Comics Unlimited and Batman Unlimited. This Green Arrow figure was released the same year as my New 52 Batman and Superman. 

I was aware of that he featured in Smallville but I never got into the show. Arrow is amazing, I was hooked. It was dark and moody, and didn't shy away from the fact that its hero was primarily using a weapon designed specifically to kill. The opening scenes hinted at how deep the series was going to go, and the acting and action were both really promising. The shows more than lived up to expectations. The Dark Knight of TV is easily the best superhero live action series right now and beyond. The darker color scheme, smaller quiver and the  hood are all elements that translated to Arrow costume for the highly acclaimed TV series. 

Green Arrow is one of the lesser known and underrated characters of the DC Universe but is one of my favorites. The previous classic look Green Arrow figure looks great too and I‘d nearly consider adding it to my collection. But the modern version is so much more prevalent and goes along better with my other modern appearances superhero action figures.This is the single Green Arrow related merchandise I own, I have t-shirts and clotting of other characters but this is the first and only Green Arrow related item I own. It is such an excellent figure. This is my favorite of all the Green Arrow costume designs.

Mattel's earlier Green Arrow figure may have had a more iconic look, but the costume design on this one is just a lot more interesting. Being both a huge Green Arrow and the TV series Arrow, The modern rendition of the Emerald Archer is a great addition to my collection symbolizing one my new favorite comic book hero of the last decade.

K

Graphic Novel Book Reviews, Daredevil, Justice League, Green Lantern, Green Arrow.

Hello readers,

I'm catching up on some of my recent Graphic Novels reviews. Daredevil Vol. 1 was the last one I read that I received at Christmas and the rest that have followed from then up until last night. Hope you enjoy them and you find these useful.

Marvel Masterworks Daredevil Vol.1

Marvel Masterworks is a series of graphic novels collecting issues of the original series of Marvels most loved characters. These books reprint the issues in full colour. Marvel Essential series collect more issues in a single volume but all issues are in black and white. So in my opinion Marvel Masterworks are the best choice when wanting to experience the original incarnations of Marvels most popular heroes. This Daredevil collection features the first 11 issues of Stan Lee’s Man without fear, Daredevil. Issue one depicts his origin and the rest of the book follows his early adventures and foes. All was as introducing readers to Foggy and Karen Page. 

I thought this was a fantastic book full of crazy and really out there moments that would have been the norm in the 70’s when these comics were first published. There fun and gives readers a real taste of how these characters in their first incarnation.Daredevil meets many foes and a love triangle develops between Karen, Foggy and Matt. These earliest stories were the inspiration for Tim Sales and Jeph Loeb’s much loved mini series Daredevil: Yellow.

Justice

The Justice League are not the only ones who can come together working towards a common goal. Enter the Legion of Doom.The Justice Leagues fall at the hands of their villains as they all strike them at once, how will the heroes come back and how will they stop the evil plans of all their enemies combined. This Graphic Novel collects all 12 issues of this mini series by Jim Kruger and the amazing Alex Ross.This is a brilliant book, I got such a kick out of it and I couldn't recommend it enough. It was a great story from Alex Ross and Jim Krueger. This 12 issue series is one of the best books I've read in recent months.

Although superhero stories can be very complex and have over the decades grew past the traditional good guy vs. the bad guys kind of stories. This story is both the traditional aspect of a group of Superheroes and Super-villains facing each other while still being an extremely clever and sophisticated blockbuster of a tale. It feels epic.

When a group of villains all experience a shared dream of earth’s demise and The World’s Greatest Super-Heroes, the Justice League unable to stop it they form an alliance to prevent the destruction of the planet. Every character gets their moment in this story with each hero narrates their own chapter that their the lead in, giving great variety to the narrative as villains take down heroes, one by one in a coordinated attack, while the characters like Poison Ivy and Captain Cold are doing good deeds to benefit mankind as the Legion of Doom turn the populace against earth's heroes. The story is full of great surprises and turns that I don't want to give away. Its one of the best Justice League stories out there and  I cannot praise this book enough, it’s exceptional, a good old fashioned tale of good guys vs. the bad in this awesome story.

Justice League Vol.4 The Grid

Throne of Atlantis was the high point of the series and in my opinion, the best stories of Justice League New 52. This story carries on for the events from Throne of Atlantis where the League wants to expand it ranks and give full time membership to many of it's reserves. Two story-lines exist in this book, the second is that of the Justice League series has been building to since its beginning; The Trinity War, where three different Leagues to war over a mysterious object. The Trinity War was the first big crossover event and this volume collects the first and the concluding chapter of the epic story-line with chapters of the story found in other books of to complete the Trinity War story arc. I wasn't really a fan of this story, it was good but it to too hard to top the three previous volumes that have come before it; Origin, The Villain’s Journey and the crowning glory Throne of Atlantis. These tales by Geoff Johns and various artists just got better and better and will be difficult to top. I enjoyed this book but I don’t feel the need to go and seek out the missing parts to complete the story, it wasn't for me. On a positive note I was extremely satisfied with the final issue and conclusion of the Trinity War story as it paved the way for a bigger and more interesting plot to unfold in Volume 5 with the arrival of the Crime Syndicate of Earth-3. 

Green Lantern: Secret Origin
Geoff Johns retells comics most popular Green Lantern, Hal Jordan’s origin story. This story was released mid way through Johns 2005-2011 series in issues of Green Lantern #29 - #35. The story was re-imagined to include several new aspects of the Green Lantern mythos; The Blackest Night prophecy and the introduction of Atrocitus , the soon be leader of the Red Lanterns. This story line served as the main inspiration for the Green Lantern 2010 live action movie in which Geoff Johns was involved with. You get to discover a lot of similarities between the book and the movie, even some direct quotes and scenes. The also focuses on some of Hal’s moments of his youth. The book is great and it tells the pretty standard origin story and it does a great job of wetting your appetite and wanting more of a Green Lantern story. This book is a great introduction into Hal Jordan, Green Lantern of Sector 2814. 

Identity Crisis

Such an brilliant book and suspenseful a murder mystery story. The 7 issue miniseries by Brad Meltzer, a well known and acclaimed thriller novelist creates a truly suspenseful and dark tale. Sue Dinby, wife of the Elongated Man is preparing her husbands Birthday surprise when an unknown intruder attacks and resulting in Sue’s murder. This tale takes a more human look at our heroes, every hero is out searching for the killer while still in fear that their own loved ones could be next.

This was a hugely successful story. I think it is exceptional when writers incorporated a classic genre story into the world of Super-heroes. Green Arrow has a prominent role in the story and long buried secrets come to light. There is a division in the Justice League, a team within a team. It is a great aspect of this story. It will keep you hooked from start to finish and with ramifications for years to come.

Green Lantern: Rebirth 

Geoff Johns 6 issue mini-series that resurrected the greatest Green Lantern of them all, Hal Jordan.

Hal made the ultimate sacrifice and had taken his final bow. A new Green Lantern of earth had taken his place. Kyle Rayner had been earth's primary Green Lantern for many years since Hal’s death and he is vital in his resurrection. Hal’s body was dead but his soul was seeking redemption and became the host for the Spectre; the Spirit of Vengeance. During the Identity Crisis story I was introduced to this aspect of Jordan’s new existence and during a conversation with his best friend Oliver Queen/Green Arrow, Hal teased that he was working on something when Oliver asked him about making a return to the land of the living.

This was easily one of the greatest Green Lantern epics that will ever be told. At a previous Comic Con DC Comics had a video of various creators and had a montage of them all specifying it was one of the best stories and also this was the place for new fans to begin with Green Lantern. Mid way through the story Kyle summarizes the events that had transpired to fully catch the reader up to what had happened. It was a great part in  the story and if you had been a long time reader of Green Lantern you would know the story but it was delivered here is such a great fashion and integral to the story.

It is another one of those epic stories that features the entire Justice League and other heroes including the other earth bound Green Lanterns. It is easily one of the most important Green Lantern stories of in existence and better again Green Lantern’s Brightest Day.

Green Arrow: Year One

I've had this book for quite a while and it was worth the wait. I'd been saving it along with other Green Arrow books for after the fantastic second season of the ARROW TV series had come to its conclusion. I was waiting to enjoy these books when I was missing the greatest TV show I had ever watched.

Green Arrow is a great character to get into, he's one of my favorites and it's great getting into the characters roots. These comics are the TV series inspiration as well as potential future story lines. Green Arrow graphic novels new and old are growing in popularity due to the success of the show and Green Arrow: Year One is the best place to start. First of all I love the cover, when I ordered the book online it had a different cover image. This one is just exceptional looking and so reminiscent on the ARROW TV series. Green Arrow Year One as the title suggests is the origin story of how Star City's Emerald Archer came to be. This 2007 mini series written by Andy Diggle with great art by Jock who modernizes and retells the events the led to the arrival of Green Arrow.

Oliver Queen; frivolous playboy and reckless thrill-seeker, who also seeks more out of life, and after a rather embarrassing public display Oliver decides to join his friend and bodyguard, Hackett on a sea voyage. Oliver later finds himself betrayed and left for dead, marooned on a not so deserted island. He struggles to survive the harsh environment and later stumbles upon drug running cartel that has enslaved some the islands inhabitants for their drug manufacturing operation all ran by a woman Oliver has named China White. He has always been seeking a more meaningful life and has now found one thing he does care about, justice. Oliver takes the stand to stop them and free the people, and all while figuring out what he wants to do with his life and who he wants to be. The story plays out like a survivor action story in this grounded superhero origin tale. All the adventure takes place on the island while giving birth to a new hero for justice.

This series served as an inspiration for the creation of the ARROW TV series. Writer Andy Diggle even has two characters named after him, one of the main characters John Diggle who has a brother named Andy. The character of China White, whose first and only appearance is in this limited series, appears in the television series, - Season 3 has her introduced as a main villain in the flashbacks- direct homage, it seems, to her role in Year One.

This book is a great start for fans looking to begin an interest in the Emerald Archers stories. Green Arrow Year One manages to tell a thrilling re-imagining of Oliver Queen's beginnings as Green Arrow that keeps the essence of the original origin but updates it in a very formidable approach to Green Arrow's definitive origin story.

Green Lantern: No Fear 

The greatest Green Lantern of them all is back. I really enjoyed Green Lantern: Rebirth, Hal’s resurrection and redemption was complete, now it time for him to get on with his life as Hal Jordan and a Green Lantern. No Fear was the follow up and the re-launch of a new Green Lantern series penned by Geoff Johns. The book collects the first six issues. I wanted to get this because I like origin stories and stories early in a hero’s career. I was interested too because it is an earth bound Green Lantern story. It featured two antagonists that I as a reader haven’t encountered before. The opening segment is beautifully illustrated by Darwyn Cooke. His work is a joy to behold but in my collection of graphic novels it is scarce. The opening of the book is Hal flying with Kyle Rayner, without him Hal would not have gotten a second chance and Hal is very grateful of that. The story could never be as good as its predecessor but is still good. It is a new start and introduction to the series and Hal’s life on his home. I enjoy his new relationship with General Stone, calling on Green Lantern when matters arise. There is some great action scene’s in this story, especially those involving The Shark, a gruesome villain that I've never encountered before. The book is great and I really enjoyed the earth bound element of it all. I liked the “What Has Gone Before” cosmic recap of events. The book was great but for now I’ll skip the next two books and go straight into the next big event;The Sinestro Corps War is coming soon.

Bye for now

K

Arrow meme

Arrow Meme

So, I've really looking forward to the return of Arrow to SKY1 next week. My girlfriend finds loads of funny superhero related meme and tags me in it and I wanted to share this one just for laughs and the anticipation is building. I've four weeks of episodes to wait the featured episode "Heir to the Demon" 

ARROW Kill Count

ARROW Kill Count Info Graphic 

by Comic Book Resources.com

My Girlfriend found this online and thought it was very cool

Enjoy