Green Lantern #50
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Doug Mahnke and Christian Alamy
Blackest Night has been continuously upping the ante with each successive chapter when it comes to sheer “What the *@&#!” moments, and Green Lantern # 50 is no different. Occurring right after the shocking climax of Blackest Night #6, this issue opens with the newly expanded Lantern Corps taking the fight to the Black Lanterns and trying to free those not-quite-dead heroes who are in their grasp. The main conflict of this book takes place between Hal Jordan and a big-ass Black Lantern Spectre, who wants Hal fused with its consciousness again. In order to bring down the undead Spirit of Vengeance, Hal does the unthinkable by releasing Parallax, the destructive yellow force that once took control of him and led to his corruption and death. This might have been a surprise if not for the fact that Parallax is on the cover, but I digress. The fact that Hal tries such a desperate move shows just how dire the heroes’ situation is and how much they are willing to do anything to gain an upper hand in their battle against the Black Lanterns.
In addition to the fantastic action in this book, there are some wonderful character moments between the veteran Corps members and their recruits. My personal favorites are Atrocitus’ growing pride in Mera’s intense fury and Larfleeze’s tug of war with Lex Luthor. Johns proves once again why he is such a fantastic comics writer as he effortlessly combines thrilling action, amusing character beats and mind-blowing plot points. The art by Mahnke and Alamy continues to improve with each issue. I’ve always liked Mahnke’s art, but I’ve never seen his pencils look more dynamic than in this issue.
I’ve said before that Green Lantern is the one book that needs to be read in tandem with the main Blackest Night mini, and this issue further proves that point. Its conclusion will no doubt lead right into Blackest Night #7, making this issue a must-read for everyone following the event. Luckily, its quality matches that of the mini in both story and art, which raises this book above the standard obligatory tie-in.
5 out of 5 Willpower-constructed Sledgehammers to the jaw
Completely agreed on all accounts. I LOVED this issue.
Larfleeze wanting Lex’s ring was great, and so was Atrocitus’ pride in Mera.
Mahnke’s art was FANTASTIC. That shot of Hal sledgehammering the Spectre’s jaw was beautiful.
I am SERIOUSLY bothered by each issue’s reveal being given away on its cover, but… ::shrugs:: whatever. The story’s great and the characters are awesome. “What do you think I’m trying to do Green Lantern!?”
Random Star Wars quote FTW!
The only complaint I have about this book, and Green Lantern in general, is that I want more Larfleeze.
Agreed. This issue rocked.
QFT. Well said, dude.