Review: ‘Green Lantern Dark’ #1

Green Lantern Dark #1 presents an Elseworld tale set in a world devoid of heroes and hope. Amidst the darkness, Rina Mori, a reluctant Green Lantern, wanders across cities and towns to keep evil entities away from innocent civilians.

Brombal's script sets the stage for this new world, introducing a desolate landscape devoid of heroes. While the premise isn't overly complex to establish in a first issue, it provides a solid foundation for the story. The world-building is subtle yet effective, conveying the dire circumstances and desperation of its inhabitants.

Additional characters, such as Lunette, a young tween who steadfastly believes in the Green Lantern, and her family, are introduced. Lunette's unwavering faith serves as a catalyst, while her brother’s skepticism provides contrast. Although they verge on being one-dimensional, fitting into standard character tropes that drive the plot, their interactions serve as a microcosm for the friction amongst the masses.

I hate to say it, but Werther Dell'Edera's artwork and Giovanna Niro's colors didn’t standout for me. The visual style felt too reminiscent of Dell’Edera’s work in the Slaughterverse. I couldn’t help thinking I was reading a House of Green Lantern or Something is Killing the Green Lanterns book. Additionally, some scenes, like Rina's introduction in a crowded diner, suffer from disjointed visual storytelling, disrupting the flow and limiting the impact.

Even with visuals that didn’t grab me, I thought Green Lantern Dark #1still provided a worthy enough exploration of hope in darkness. As the world grapples with uncertainty, this issue's themes feel eerily relevant. With a pivotal US election looming, Brombal's narrative serves as a timely reminder of hope's importance in the face of grilling despair.

Rating: 7/10