For untold eons, the Green Lantern Corps has defended the universe from chaos and evil. Sometimes that required them to be soldiers. For the most part, however, they have acted as intergalactic police officers and peacekeepers. It is in this capacity that a new Corps has formed, and a new comic book built around this organization.
Green Lantern Corps #1 is quick to establish the current status quo for those who haven’t read the recent GLC miniseries. It is a time of turmoil on the galactic stage, following the collapse of the United Planets. Thankfully, a new Corps has come forward to restore order, Unfortunately, they face many challenges beyond a rise in crime.
(Image Source: DC / Fernando Pasarin)
Chief among these is a growing instability within the emotional spectrum that powers the Green Lantern Corps. Many beings across the universe are tapping the spectrum without a power ring, resulting in considerable damage. Additionally, some (like the villain Sorrow) have found ways to summon energy from emotions beyond the recognized forces of rage, greed, fear, will, hope, compassion, and love. Throw in a heaping helping of politics and personal issues between the officers, and the new team have their work cut out for them.
(Image Source: DC / Fernando Pasarin)
While leaning heavily upon the cosmic lore of the DC Universe, Green Lantern Corps #1 is a police procedural first and foremost. Beyond explaining the setting, the focus is on the GLC officers from Earth and establishing their personalities. Not all the Lanterns featured on the covers get extensive scenes, but there are enough to establish the ensemble. One particularly amusing scene involves Jessica Cruz, the newly elected desk captain, venting to long-time partner Simon Baz about her new responsibilities. The script by Morgan Hampton and Jeremy Adams is full of fun character moments and surprises like this.
(Image Source: DC / Keron Grant)
The same is true of the artwork of veteran Green Lantern Corps artist Fernando Pasarin. One of my favorite visuals involves Guy Gardner bottle-feeding a baby refugee in the background of one page. Beyond being a bit of a laugh given Guy’s macho persona, it’s a subtle nod to his true character and his weak spot for kids. Praise must also be paid to inker Oclair Albert and colorist Arif Prianto. This is one of the finest looking books I’ve seen in some time.
All in all, Green Lantern Corps #1 is everything one could hope for in a first issue. It sets the stage for a grand conflict, but offers continuity without drowning the reader in exposition. The artwork is simply amazing and the story full of surprises for old and new readers alike.
Grade: 9/10
Green Lantern Corps #1 arrives in comic shops everywhere on February 12, 2025.