Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Title: Straight Shooter: Part 6 (of 6)
Written by: Judd Winick
Pencilled by: Phil Hester
Inked by: Andre Parks
Colored by: Guy Major
Lettered by: Willie Schubert
Associate Editor: Michael Wright
Editor: Bob Schreck
Publisher: DC Comics
The writer may change, but the quality remains the same.
Green Arrow has been one of DC’s most successful books since being relaunched with the return of Oliver Queen, under Kevin Smith’s writing. I consider the fact that four writers have played a part over only 31 issues, a clear indication of very strong editing. As an example Flash, was relaunched in 1987, and has employed only 6 regular writers (one or two issue fill-ins aside) in more than fifteen years. Often brief writing stints lead to a fractured narrative, but that’s simply not the case with Green Arrow.
Judd Winick began his run 6 months ago; this month marks the completion of his first story arc. Winick has taken on two high profile DC books of late. Outsiders has been good, although somewhat disappointing, while Green Arrow has been nothing short of amazing. Winick from his first issue nailed all of the characters to such a perfect degree. It’s much like the work of Gail Simone on Birds of Prey; there’s never been that awkward period of transition. This is Judd’s book now, and has been from his first issue.
The Green Arrow character has never had a tremendous gallery of rogues. Kevin Smith did his part to alleviate that problem, introducing the original character Onomatopeia, who had a knack for sounding out his actions. Winick has far exceeded Smith, bringing us a more realistic and seemingly undefeatable killer in Constantine Drakon. Winick has built Drakon up so well over the space of this arc, you almost feel like Ollie doesn’t stand a chance in the end.
While six issues seemed a little long for the arc, after a slow start the story developed at a nice pace. Ollie is given some great character moments especially concerning his affair with Joanna Pierce, the niece of superhero Black Lightning. The story wraps up nicely, but doesn’t leave everything in a perfect state of bliss for our heroes. As is normally the case with Oliver Queen, he gets the job done, but along the way makes plenty of mistakes.
A clear vision, and artistic stability
One big reason the book has remained successful through the varying writers has been the ability to maintain the same art team. Phil Hester and Andre Parks have been the regular team since the debut issue. While their work has a somewhat cartoony feel, there is also a decided grit and realism to it. They strike the perfect balance of humor and realism that Green Arrow demands, due to the quirky nature of Oliver Queen.
I only touched on it earlier, but the real heroes of Green Arrow thus far are editor Bob Schreck and associate Michael Wright. The book began with Oliver Queen’s return from the dead, and has been about Ollie’s quest to regain his place in the world ever since. Keeping Connor Hawke (who was the title character of the pervious series for almost three years), an integral part of the cast was a smart move. Not to mention Arsenal, former Arrow sidekick Speedy, a frequent guest shows respect for the concept as well. The strong editing is probably the biggest reason that this book has remained towards the top of the monthly sales charts.
