Every comic book fan has a character or team that they aren’t a fan of, even though they’re popular. I’ve seen people call Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman all overrated, overpowered, and outdated. I may not agree, but we’re all entitled to our opinions. Also, I would be a hypocrite to say otherwise since these are things that I’ve said about the Green Lantern Corps.
Look, I understand that there are decades of lore within the Green Lantern Corps that I haven’t read. Within them are dozens of classic stories with some of the most powerful and popular characters in all of comics. Nevertheless, I didn’t see the allure until Nora Keita Jemisin’s Far Sector and Jeremy Adams’ Green Lantern. Even then, that was only two of the many characters that took the oath. Then, Morgan Hampton's Green Lantern Corps debuted, and now I’m singing his praises.
There has been a common theme in the Green Lantern Corps since Morgan Hampton has been writing it (and co-wrote with Jeremy Adams until issue No. 10), and that has been emotions. I know what you’re thinking. “Duh! The Lantern Corps are all about emotions!” While that is true, there have been more than a few moments that have hit harder than ever. Issue No. 15 is a perfect example.
John Stewart had to let the memory of his mother go and come to terms with his failures while fighting off Parallax. It was an instance that showed the true strength of John and why even the best of the Green Lantern Corps look up to him for leadership and guidance. It would have been impossible to read that storyline and not become a fan. Then, when I thought things couldn’t get any deeper, I read issue No. 17.
Guy Gardner has a very unique look. His bowl-cut is ridiculous, and he’s always joking. But most of this is to hide his insecurities. Morgan Hampton showed readers that truth in a way that may be triggering to some: He reminded readers of the abuse Guy took from his father as a kid.
As if the beatings weren’t enough, Guy's father said things to him like, “You ain’t worthy of callin’ yourself a Gardner!” and “You’re nothin’ more than a piece’ a gum on my shoe.” That'll give anyone insecurity issues. Thankfully, Guy decides against giving up when he sees his older self, who helps him overcome that moment. He does it by telling him to embrace his emotion. Granted, younger Guy had some help from the physical embodiment of willpower (Ion), but he had to believe in himself to get the strength to succeed.
"I'm not a mere mortal. I'm the Allsight. But above that...I'm a kid from the streets of Baltimore who's had to fight for everything he's ever got in this life. I'm not supposed to be here, yet here I am."
- Guy Gardner
If that wasn't enough to get you on board with Guy Gardner, he finally embraced being the Allsight (think of it like the Pope for all the Lantern Corps). With that came a promise to the emotional entities to always protect them. Having all of the entities in his care may make him the most powerful member of any of the corps. Or it could drive him crazy. Either way, it will be interesting to see what happens next.
Of course, there’s still all of the space action, creative constructs, and quips you’d want from a Green Lantern Corps series. And Morgan Hampton also doesn’t skimp on the character development, which has highlighted more than just the regulars like Jessica Cruz, Sinestro, and the aforementioned John Stewart and Guy Gardner. Whether they’re a hero or villain, everyone is being elevated and becoming more interesting.
In short, this is one of the best ongoing series DC Comics is publishing, and Morgan Hampton has been killing it as a writer. Trust me when I say that this series will make you a believer in Green Lantern's light.
Thanks for reading. Stay tuned to Bam Smack Pow’s social media pages on Bluesky, Instagram, and Twitter for more comic book, TV, and movie news, opinions, and rumors as they come out.
Add us as a preferred source on Google