The New Guardians Chaper One kicks off the Brightest Day for Hal Jordan in this Geoff Johns penned book.
Summary: Hector Hammond is imprisoned, while an ancient being trapped by the Guardians that predates both the Manhunters and Green Lanterns plots to protect the universe once more. Hal Jordan and his ex, Carrol Ferris discuss their relationship when Sinestro interrupts even though all the differnt Lantern Corps have a truce. Apparently, the entity of White Light is asking for Hal. Lex Luthor, meanwhile, wants a Black Ring, but is confronted by Larfleeze who wants land. Saint Walker of the Blue Lanters prays over the dead, while Barry Allen, the Flash, fixes their graves. Finally, Guy Gardner, Atrocious and Ganthet ally against the Guardians.
Thoughts: The Guardians and their manipulations coming home to roost seems to be the main direction that this series will follow. The issue is entirely set up, with nothing occuring or revealed within, but plenty of teasers left open. Who is the mysterious being at the start? Why would Guy ally with Atrocious and Ganthet? Why does the White Light want Hal Jordan? Where will Hal and Carrol go from here? How will Larfeeze get land? All of these are left open in this issue. If you’ve followed the book through Blackest Night, these questions are likely enough to keep you reading. If, however, you’re more invested in the characters than events, this is a big letdown. The Guardians former protector thus far speaks in pure cliche, and Carrol and Hal’s conversation was about as far from natural sounding as one can get. I don’t buy that they’re ex-lovers who just went through a traumatic experience… I don’t even buy them as three dimensional characters. This is less a problem in this mulit-part space opera than it might otherwise be, but since those two scenes make up 2/3 of the issue, it has to be downgraded.
Rating: 6/10
