Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Title: The Blind: Part One
Written by: Benjamin Raab
Penciled by: Rick Burchett
Inked by: Rodney Ramos
Colored by: Moose Baumann
Lettered by: Kurt Hathaway
Editor: Bob Schreck
Publisher: DC Comics
It’s hard to believe after 166 issues, this incarnation of the GREEN LANTERN title has only had four regular writers. Gerard Jones, Ron Marz, Judd Winick, and now Benjamin Raab. Each of the previous writers did some really good things with the book, and of course each had their drawbacks. I don’t want to dwell on the past, or the recent crossover between GREEN LANTERN and GREEN ARROW, which led into Raab taking possession of the writing duties on GL. Frankly it’s unfair to compare Raab’s work with the previous men as they all had lengthy runs, and the crossover is best left without further comment.
It’s impressive to see the changing of the guard from Winick to Raab go so smoothly. Benjamin Raab writes Kyle well, and continuing Winick’s direction towards the end, has him patrolling space as he was meant to in Sector 2814. Raab continues to make Ganthet and Oa important in the world of GL. Plus, he advances the story of the recently returned-from-the-dead, former GL, Kilowog. While the old poozer isn’t back to his normal self yet, it’s great to see such a beloved character return. DC has been undoing a lot of the damage that was caused by the wholesale slaughter of so many of their great characters in the 90’s! They’ve made a lot of mistakes over the last 15 years, and should be commended for their attempts to rectify things.
It appears the Black Circle is to be the main opposition Kyle will face for the foreseeable future. I said I wouldn’t talk about the recent crossover, but I have to break that promise for a compliment, of sorts. The ham fisted, drawn out storytelling did in fact serve a purpose, which was the introduction of Aman Sur (son of Abin Sur) and his intergalactic cartel. I like how Sur remained behind the scenes this issue, working his “puppets†as he makes Kyle’s life very difficult. It was high time for Kyle to face a big threat that wasn’t going to stand toe to toe and fight him.
The other success of Raab’s first two issues is that he hasn’t forgotten the wealth of supporting players that remain on Earth. While it’s a bit jarring to follow Kyle in space, then cut back to Jade and Merayn enjoying a night on the town. I welcome the continuation of these characters stories even when they’re not involved in the central plot. Jade’s encounter with two trashy club patrons is hilarious, and shows that Raab will bring a good sense of humor to the book.
Many great artists have leant their pencils and inks to GREEN LANTERN over the years. Most recently Dale Eaglesham graced the pages of the title with his wonderful pencils. New regular penciler Rick Burchett has big shoes to fill following Eaglesham, but judging by the first couple of issues, he’s obviously up to the test.
So far Ben Raab has far exceeded my expectations on the title. It seems the editors and Raab have a clear vision of where to take GREEN LANTERN over the next few years, integrating much of the traditional elements and characters that helped make the book so popular. It’s great to see a transfer of power between writers, that doesn’t create a jarring change in direction. GL fans have a lot to look forward to; if you gave the book up, it’s a great time to start reading again!
