John Stewart’s time as a Green Lantern has come to an end…or so he thinks. A family tragedy calls him back home. As John begins to reclaim the career he once left behind, he tries to embrace a peaceful post-superhero life. It’s that aspect that makes Green Lantern: War Journal #1 stand out as one of the best debuts of the year. It delivers an emotional gut punch that’ll leave you choking up by the end.

Green Lantern: War Journal #1 does an amazing job of mixing the grounded and fantastical with a start that grounds Stewart but looks towards the sky as well. Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson, the comic has Stewart back home taking care of his mother as goes about every day mundane tasks. Fixing a sink, doing some gardening, it’s all rather simple tasks that we can all relate to. But, it’s the moments with his mother that stand out. For those who are older and dealing with aging family and parents, it’s an emotional punch that delivers a take on a comic character that’s not just grounded but one that’s easy to relate to and connect with. Stewart’s a beloved character but small details takes it to another level.

But, things aren’t all like that. Johnson keeps things fantastic as well as a new threat emerges and a new Lantern is introduced. The comic nails it. The teases feel like it uses the best of horror, something Johnson has shown a deft ability to use. There’s a emerging threat that builds throughout the comic like a stalker getting ready to go after its prey.

The art by Montos is fantastic. With color by Adriano Lucas and lettering by Dave Sharpe, the comic balances its sci-fi and every day life aspects. A fantastic opening sequence feels right out of a summer blockbuster while John at home feels like a family drama. The art goes back and forth between the two in ways that flow perfectly. With some some strong visual moments that really drive home Johnson’s script this is a great example of writer and artists in sync.

Green Lantern: War Journal #1 is a fantastic start to the series that tugs at heart strings and gives us even more reasons to love the character. It also delivers an ominous threat that is intriguing and interesting with a cinematic setup that’s memorable and delivers amazing action. The comic is a damn near perfect package.

Story: Phillip Kennedy Johnson Art: Montos
Color: Adriano Lucas Letterer: Dave Sharpe
Story: 10 Art: 9.0 Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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