New Lanterns Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz promised to protect others in brightest day or blackest night, but as “Red Planet” begins to rise, the partners find themselves confronted with an unimaginable threat from Bleez and the Red Lanterns!

I really enjoyed Green Lanterns: Rebirth which set the tone for what we might expect in Sam Humphries‘ run. Focusing on Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz, this new series packs a lot into this first issue playing a bit with what’s come before, and I’m not sure how new readers might react to that.

It’s no surprise that the Red Lanterns are the new focus as the first villains these two Lanterns will deal with, but it’s not well explained who they are, or their connection. And, while I know that info, I’m not sure how a new reader might react to that.

What the issue does great is setting up Cruz and Baz. It’s clear they’re looked at as the “B team” and not taken too seriously. There’s lots of references like that as both are still getting used to their roles. Humphries also gives a nod to folks who might be wondering where there rest of the Green Lantern Corps is and also adds his mark with Baz showing off some interesting powers towards the end of the issue.

The art by Robson Rocha is really good and keeps a look that feels consistent with what’s come before. There’s some slight issues with character designs, but it’s only for a panel or two, but it’s all generally good with some cool panels and lots of gore… it has to do with Red Lanterns after all.

The first issue is a good, not great, one that dives into setting up what’s coming up for the series. It looks to dive pretty deep into the Lantern myth. That might not be great for new readers, but for long time readers, this should feel like a continuation of things that have come before.

Story: Sam Humphries Art: Robson Rocha
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review