Green Lantern Corps (2006) #50

August 5, 2010

Title: Revolt of the Alpha-Lanterns Part 3

Writer: Tony Bedard
Penciler: Ardian Syaf
Inker: Vicente Cifuentes
Colorist: Randy Mayor & Carrie Strachan
Letterer: Steve Wands
Cover: Ardian Syaf
Editor: Adam Schlagman
Publisher: DC Comics

The Alpha Lanterns, as it turns out, have been taken over by the Cyborg Superman and his Manhunters. Unable to die, the Cyborg has begun plans for war with the lanterns. This issue, Ganthet and Soranik Natu are tied up in battles of their own, leaving the rescue mission for John Stewart in the capable ring of Kyle Rayner. This issue has some fantastic moments, with John facing the Cyborg in the depths of his own subconscious (and conveniently giving the reader a recap of the Cyborg’s origin in the process). The fight scenes are really strong as well, with Ganthet getting a chance to cut loose as only a Guardian can do, and Kyle showing off just how effective in battle he can be.

I guess it’s the anniversary issue mindset, but I do find it a little odd that this isn’t the end of the storyline. We’re sort of accustomed to see stories either beginning or ending when an issue number is a multiple of 25, but instead, this is a strong third chapter, but still ends on an epic cliffhanger. The artwork of Ardian Syaf and the rest of the team certainly helps out. Syaf does a fantastic job with lots of aliens, robots, and other assorted sci-fi and superhero concepts. A book like this one really does require an artist who can handle the science fiction elements, but still have the ability to blend it into the DC Universe proper.

Since taking over this title, Tony Bedard and Ardian Syaf haven’t really reinvented the wheel. It was a solid superhero science fiction yarn before, and it still is. The cast has shifted a little, but Green Lantern Corps remains one of DC’s underappreciated gems.

Rating: 9/10