Red Lanterns #2

October 8, 2011

Title: Pure Rage

Writer: Peter Milligan
Pencils: Ed Benes
Inks: Rob Hunter
Colorist: Nathan Eyring
Letterer: Carlos M. Mangual
Cover Artist: Ed Benes
Editor: Brian Cunningham
Publisher: DC Comics

As Atrocitus ponders the future of his Corps, he relates the tale of Ghan IX, a planet “engulfed in rage.” In the midst of a war on this planet, a young girl sees her family butchered, and Atrocitus is forced to make a choice that may change the direction of the Red Lanterns.

Peter Milligan raises some interesting questions with this book about the nature of rage itself, as well as how it has changed the course of evolution for Atrocitus and the rest of the Red Lanterns. As you can imagine, it’s not the most peaceful existence they enjoy, and we see an interesting moment here where the rage-filled Lantern actually ponders whether to induct another child into his ranks. Her rage is pure, but will allowing her to succumb to it be a kindness, or a curse?

The only complaint I have about this book is that it does seem to be moving along rather slowly. Last issue introduced a subplot on Earth that isn’t touched upon at all this issue. The flashback to Ghan IX takes up most of issue two, but it probably could have been tightened up to allow at least a bit of a visit to the other storyline. The title is strong, but needs to pull together.

Ed Benes’s artwork still surprises me. He’s made his reputation more or less on cheesecake, so seeing him draw moments of war and monsters so effectively is actually a welcome surprise.

Good book, but it can get better.

Rating: 7/10