Green Lantern: War Journal #12 – Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Writer; Montos, Artist; Adriano Lucas, Colorist
Ray – 9.5/10
Ray: John Stewart has been a prominent member of the GLC for decades – some would argue the most prominent member – but he’s always had a problem with solo stories centered around him. His most famous run up until this point is no longer in print due to the creator, and other attempts at giving him solo runs were met with a mixed reception – until this one, by the writer of the Warworld Saga, which takes John into a year-long cosmic mystery balanced with some deeply personal stories about his deceased younger sister and his mother’s battle with dementia. Now, as he goes up against the Revenant Queen – now revealed as the mad spirit of a murdered girl from eons ago – his mother and the being created from his ring as a simulacrum of Ellie battle for survival on Earth against twisted creatures from another world. It sets the stakes sky-high for the final chapter.
It’s not a big surprise that John does wind up triumphing over the villain and returning to Earth, but the method by which he does it is a great spotlight for how John combines a good balance of practicality and compassion that heroes often lack. While he does ruthlessly protect his fellow fighters, he never forgets that this villain is a victim as well. But as phenomenal as Montos’ art is, it’s the back half of the issue that packs the biggest emotional punch. This will be all too familiar for anyone who has had to say goodbye to a parent all too soon, as well as an intriguing dose of wish fulfillment for those who wish they could still get advice from that loved one. This series has left some surprising permanent status quo changes for John – ones that are likely to stick as long as Johnson continues to write the character. And we know at least a backup is coming in the next few months – but a teaser hints there may be even more coming.
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GeekDad received this comic for review purposes.
