The Good
Before we dive into discussing the plot, it needs to be said artist Andrea Sorrentino and colorist Marcelo Maiolo are doing a phenomenal job. Jeff Lemire's writing is great and we'll get to that in a minute, but these two create some beyond impressive pages and the two make this book simply amazing. There's some breathtaking panels and no amount of praise will do it proper justice. The way the action is brought to life literally made me cheer out loud at least twice, the island is beautiful and lush, and the vibrant use of red makes a more dramatic scene leave a lasting impact in your mind.
Now that Lemire provided all of the basic plot points in the last issue, the writer ramps things up and hits us with a beyond thrilling issue that's also packed with emotion and not one, but two twists. Shado may be present (and there's a cameo, too), but it's clear this issue's all about unveiling more of who Oliver is and also delivering some majorly awesome action. It's great to see Lemire has such huge plans for the character and with every issue he teases a little more of the big change he's bringing to Ollie's world. Lemire's script is full of action and drama this time around, but there's a surprising amount of comedy implemented, too. The Shield Clan's leader had me laughing like a fool and the banter about trick arrows was nicely timed. Still, these moments of levity never took away from the more serious and compelling tone this issue was aiming to create.
The Bad
I've read the issue twice and I honestly have no significant complaints.
The Verdict
The opening chapter of GREEN ARROW's latest story, The Outsiders War, was really good but primarily establishing all of the basics. This second chapter, though? I'm completely blown away. Jeff Lemire moves the story ahead at full speed and winds up creating a great issue that is easily one of my favorites from the entire series so far. On top of that, Andrea Sorrentino and Marcelo Maiolo's artwork is as creative and impressive as ever -- it's a real visual treat. GREEN ARROW is without question one of the top books from DC and you need to check it out.
39 Comments