Last issue delivered a major hook with Parallax possessing John Stewart. Any Green Lantern fan knows that when Parallax takes hold, it spells serious trouble. Hal Jordan’s fall during Emerald Twilight reshaped the franchise for years, and Kyle Rayner’s encounter during the Sinestro Corps War stands as another defining moment. Those are “greatest hits” arcs, so where does John Stewart’s turn fit into that legacy?
Morgan Hampton answers that question surprisingly and refreshingly: he doesn’t make the story about Parallax.
DC
Instead, Hampton zeroes in on one of the long-standing elephants in the room since John’s return – his personal life, and what he’s been overlooking in the present. Rather than revisiting past victories or tragedies, Hampton crafts a story about what John is missing right now. That choice gives the issue emotional weight and makes John feel grounded in a way that’s both relatable and overdue. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into John’s past struggles, Green Lantern Vol. 3 #147 still stands as a powerful companion piece, and it’s interesting to see how those themes echo here.
That said, I do wish the Parallax possession had lasted longer. Lately, Parallax hasn’t quite felt as impactful as it once did. Compared to its extended influence over Hal and Kyle, John’s encounter feels brief; similar to Barry Allen’s experience in Green Lantern Vol. 4 #59. For now, I’ll chalk that up to the current status of the Emotional Entities, especially with Guy Gardner witnessing their rebirth as “baby” versions, setting up his ongoing quest.
And what a quest it’s shaping up to be. Guy’s team continues to stand out as one of the most entertaining ensembles in the series. Between Fatality (now firmly rooted in the Indigo Tribe), Razer, Sinestro, and Larfleeze, the dynamic is unpredictable in the best way. Thankfully, Guy has Jo, Ellie, and Aya to help keep things from completely spiraling.
DC
Their storyline pulls double duty, showcasing Aya’s evolving abilities while reestablishing the Manhunters as a credible and dangerous threat. There’s also a great touch of humor, particularly with Razer’s interactions with Aya, especially given the form she takes on in that moment. It’s a small bit, but it adds charm and personality to an otherwise high-stakes mission. On the visual side, Fernando Pasarin, Oclair Albert, and Arif Prianto continue to deliver stellar work. Their art keeps Green Lantern Corps among DC’s most consistently strong-looking books. From emotional character beats to large-scale action, the visuals carry both the heart and the intensity of the story.
Overall, this issue strikes a strong balance between emotional storytelling and cosmic stakes. As the Manhunters close in and the Corps faces mounting pressure, one thing remains clear: “No Man Escapes the Manhunters!” The question now is just how far they’re willing to go, and what it will take for the Lanterns to stop them. Green Lantern Corps #15 shifts focus away from Parallax’s possession of John Stewart and instead delivers a more personal, emotionally grounded story about what John has been neglecting in his life. Morgan Hampton balances that introspection with Guy Gardner’s evolving quest to reunite the Emotional Entities. At the same time, the Manhunters rise as a major threat. Strong character work and consistent artwork make this a compelling and well-rounded chapter in the series.
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