Written by: Robert Venditti
Art by: Rafa Sandoval
Publisher: DC Comics
Robert Venditti is back with another issue of Hal Jordan and The Green Lantern Corps, and boy, is it an action packed affair. Where the first two issues were more focused on setting up story beats and characters, this latest iteration is all about the action. It’s a nice change of pace for an already entertaining series, and Venditti does a phenomenal job getting readers engaged from the first panel.
Heading into Hal Jordan #3, there is an immensely dire situation. The Sinestro Corps is roaming the galaxy, spreading terror on every planet. This is a frightening move from a previously calm group of heroes/villains, and it’s only made worse by the lack of defenders. Hal Jordan is working his hardest to stop the Corps, but he’s only one man. Even worse, many of the Green Lanterns are focused on rebuilding headquarters and lines of communication. Heroes like John Stewart can’t simply run off to fight villains when there are tasks to take care of. At least Guy Gardner is kicking some evildoer tail in his portion of the galaxy.
Despite the overwhelming feeling of desperation permeating the entire issue, Hal Jordan #3 is actually more positive than you would expect. Jordan never gives up in the worst of situations, which is exactly why Abin Sur chose him in the final moments of life. The battle between Jordan and the Sinestro Corps rages during the entire issue, and he throws everything under the literal sun at them. The battle is absolutely fascinating, especially when Jordan uses ball peen hammers as weapons.
Interestingly enough, the action doesn’t take away from the story beats happening during the issue. The Sinestro Corps has some despicable plans and finding them out is a great part of Hal Jordan #3. As it turns out, Sinestro is a very evil man. Who woulda thunk?
This evilness is on full display during the rare quiet moments where Sinestro is meeting with Administer Lash. Their discussion provides some much-needed backstory and the Sinestro Corps, as well as big evil plan. Obviously, there are some details that still remain a secret, so reading future issues is a requirement.
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #3 is a really entertaining entry in this already solid series. Robert Venditti has crafted a “fun” story full of intrigue and straight up violent action. The tiny little section with Guy Gardner is a perfect example of the tone that Venditti is going for. Unfortunately, this section only lasts two panels. Hopefully, Lantern Gardner will make a return along with John Stewart.
DC Comics’ latest is one of the best Rebirth series, and it’s definitely one that Green Lantern fans should check out.
