One of the coolest aspects of science fiction is how it can blend with/incorporate fascinating elements of real science. Take for instance this new Green Lantern series from DC Comics: The Lantern Corps are stuck in the universe that precluded our own before the Big Bang. What worlds and aliens existed then? It’s a fun aspect as anything could happen, but the Lanterns want to get home and this is the first issue detailing that adventure. Is it good?
Green Lantern Corps: Edge of Oblivion #1 (DC Comics)
The Green Lantern Corps are trapped in a dead universe with only Mogo (the Green Lantern member that’s a planet) as a respite. They’ve spent six months trying to figure out how to escape with no luck. It’s not until a mysterious rock comes flying their way that things get interesting. Check out the full preview here.
Why does this book matter?
Seeing as this series is taking place in another time and place anything can happen. The stakes are extremely high and writer Tom Taylor can go bonkers with new story elements and twisted versions of things we thought we knew. That means surprises, people!
Squirrels are hilarious.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
This issue takes its time with the story, but never feels boring or pointless. Instead we’re given ample time to understand how dire things are for our heroes and also learn about the new characters introduced in the issue. Taylor has put these characters between a rock and a hard place so the Green Lanterns are potentially making the wrong decisions for themselves. The new characters seem trustworthy enough (except for those evil looking clothes) and there’s an even bigger threat looming on the horizon. Taylor establishes all of this plus the main Green Lanterns we’ll be following in the series quite well.
Since these characters know as much about their surroundings as we do we’re all on a level playing field. That makes this read accessible to nearly anyone (as long as you understand what the rings can do). I haven’t kept up with the series over the last few years as closely as I’d like but had no trouble enjoying the issue. The characters that are established all get plenty of time on the page and while there are a lot of folks in the Corps it never feels like there are too many.
I wonder what they’ve been eating for six months while they argue.
Taylor gives us a scene that helps make their big choice in the issue believable too. While their new “friends” look evil, strike first and have somehow survived in a dead universe, the Corps discuss helping them. Sure, it’s a bit naive to trust them so quickly considering one of these characters attacks them outright, but they at least talk it over. Call it a mix of desperation and heroics as they make this choice and it’s nice to see Guy isn’t so sure.
The art by Ethan Van Sciver is in his customarily detailed style. The design of the new characters, with black chins making it appear as if they don’t have mouths, is very cool and they sport very unique costumes too. The opening sequence with an irate squirrel Lantern is pretty funny and Sciver does a good job making him realistic.
It can’t be perfect can it?
The obligatory fight sequence takes place here due to confusion – ever the comic book trope – and while it doesn’t last long it does make you roll your eyes a bit!
Is It Good?
A desperate Green Lantern Corps is a fresh take on the characters, and the new villains and supporting characters make this accessible and a whole lot of fun to all readers.
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