[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Robert Venditti
Artists: Rafa Sandoval & Jordi Tarragona
Colors: Tomeu Morey
Letters: Dave Sharpe
Summary
Hal and Tomar-Tu are locked in combat as John, Kyle, Guy, Zod, Orion and Arkillo have to face down the army of Darkstars. Zod, tireless as a Kryptonian is concerned that the rest of them may not be able to face the Darkstars much longer. He’s ready to use lethal force to quicken the end of this affair. This leads to John, Kyle and Guy having to split their attention and make sure Zod doesn’t kill anyone.
After slowing Tomar down with some ring slinging, Hal gets the idea that the only way to stop the Darkstars is to infuse his will into them. The only way he can do this is to have Hector Hammond ease up on the control he’s exerting on the psychic link between the Darkstars so Hal can jump in and attempt an override. Hal jams his ring into the system and links all the Darkstar minds. He infuses his will into them in order to help them choose life over lethal force.
This stops the Darkstar attack and Tomar-Tu realizes the broader repercussions of his actions on his soul. However, he and Hal are surprised by an angry General Zod who is still looking for revenge Tomar-Tu’s failed actions which led to the destruction of Krypton. Tomar picks up a Darkstar gauntlet and points it at himself stealing Zod’s satisfaction, yet taking his own life in the process.
The issue wraps up with two hopeful scenes. On Oa with the release of numerous new Green Lantern rings and a moving speech by John. Hal returns to Earth to finally see Carol for a satisfying ending to this chapter in Hal Jordan’s life.
Positives
This series always delivers on character. It should come as no surprise that the final issue is no exception. The lump in the throat moment comes at the very end as Hal and Carol finally reunite. There’s no long drawn out discussion with an angry Carol looking for explanations. It’s a simple, heart warming moment between two people who love each other, yet nuanced in their brief dialogue with all that’s transpired over the past 50 issues.
But, that’s not it! Hal’s insistence on remaining true to his commitment to not killing is inspiring and a great spotlight on Hal’s strength of will. It seems only fitting that it is his will that finally stops the Darkstars. As a story element it ties up this part of Hal Jordan’s life wherein his will was explored and served him as his greatest attribute.
Negatives
This story paces pretty fast, slow down the read to enjoy it. Let some of it sink in, as the wrap up is the best part.
Verdict
Well, we’re finally here at the end of Robert Venditti’s run on Hal Jordan and the end of this particular Green Lantern series. It’s been a pleasure to review this book for the past few years. This has to be one of the best runs on Green Lantern, if not THE best. It has brought classic concepts back and yet pushed to concept further than ever before. It has explored intellectual and moral issues all while remaining entertaining and true to the characters. This final issue puts all the toys back in the box, and yet has left profound marks on characters and set a lofty standard for the next creative team.
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