Comic Book Review – Green Lantern #36
Context
Rage of the Red Lanterns Part 2
Story
Geoff Johns’ writing can be filled with breath catching moments and this issue is no exception. Rarely has an issue so expertly conveyed a range of different emotions. Emotions are the fuel that is driving Johns’ latest Green Lantern story. The DC Universe is now populated with a rainbow colored variety of ring bearing entities – some good and some evil. Johns is now introducing us to Red Lanterns who embody rage. We also get a good first look at the Blue Lanterns who embody hope. The issue features a startling statement for both Hal and Sinestro.
Geoff Johns (The Flash, JSA) does so many interesting things here. I like how these new lanterns’ power can control the emotional state of those around them. Sinestro’s captivity on Ysmault, the world of the Red Lanterns, inspires true dread and you even start to feel sorry for Sinestro (just a little bit maybe). This is Johns at his finest – he is in his own little universe and he can pretty much do as he pleases.
Art
Ivan Reis provides us with a rich universe filled with detailed aliens and planets ranging from lush to desolate. His figures and layouts are reminiscent of Alan Davis (Excaliber, ClanDestine). What sets him apart is his use of detail. Although his lines are smooth when needed, he can really get into the corners of an object and give it depth or menace when required.
One of the highlights of Reis’ art is what he does with energy. A Lantern’s energy can be (and has been) treated like an afterthought by some artists. Ivan sees energy as an opportunity. Each Lantern color group has its properties and each individual within that color has his or her own identity. Check out how a Red Lantern’s power almost bleeds and how a Blue Lantern’s power is more aura-like.
This, much like Marvel’s Thor, is great storytelling talent on a “second tier” character.
What to look for
The interaction between John Stewart and the Blue Lantern should interest any Stewart fan.
What might put you off
You have to wait 30 days until the next issue.
Recommendation
Green Lantern should be on your pull list.
| Title | Green Lantern |
| Issue Number | 36 |
| Publisher | DC Comics |
| Release Date | 1/2/2009 |
| Writer | Geoff Johns |
| Penciler | Ivan Reis |
| Inker | Oclair Albert |
| Colorist | Nei Ruffino |
| Letterer | Rob Leigh |
| Production | Irene Lee |
| Associate Editor | Roam Schlagman |
| Editor | Eddie Berganza |
| Cover | Shane Davis, Sandra Hope and Nei Ruffino |
| Reviewed By | Geoff Jolliff |
Related posts:
- Comic Book Review – Green Lantern #38
- “GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH” #1 SELLS OUT
- GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH #1 REVIEW
- Geoff Johns on Final Crisis: Rage of the Red Lanterns
- Green Lantern Gets The Green Light
