The Good

Since the New 52 started, some characters, like Green Arrow, have gone through changes. In some regards, it felt as if he was a completely different character than he was before. There were some interesting changes, such as having Q-Core and the ability to get whatever tech he needed to fight crime. But it just felt as if something was missing. This didn't feel like the Ollie we knew and loved.

This series has seen a few different creative teams in the previous 16 issues. Now Jeff Lemire steps up to the plate and he hits a homerun. With Andrea Sorrentino at his side handling the art and colors, we're seeing a new direction for the series.

This is the perfect jumping on point for new readers or those that haven't been keeping up. While there is mention to ideas such as Q-Core and Ollie's young and brash ways, we're almost seeing a re-invention of the character. What you need to know is spelled out on the first few pages. Lemire places Ollie in a dire situation and completely shakes up the status quo of the book, something that was desperately needed. With the suspense and action introduced here, you will absolutely want to come back for the next issue to see what Lemire has planned.

Sorrentino is an amazing artist. He brings a feel to the series that fits with the new direction. We've been seeing Ollie pretend to be the arrogant and irresponsible spoiled rich boy but Sorrentino's art shows there's no place for that here. The action scenes are beautifully executed and the use of highlighting certain points of impact in the action is brilliant.

The Bad

It might be that I'm used to Sorrentino's art on I, VAMPIRE. With the brighter palette required here, it takes some getting used to. It'll be interesting to see how the vibe of the series continues after this first arc.

We're getting some mystery about Ollie's past introduced. With talk of 'the island,' one has to hope the series won't try to align itself with the TV show.

The Verdict

Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino have arrived to change everything you know about Green Arrow in the New 52. With a new creative team, this is the perfect jumping on point for all readers. There is mention to what has happened to Ollie so far in the New 52 but with the direction of the story, everything you need to know to move forward is present. Lemire and Sorrentino add a different feel to the character and the action and suspense is remarkable. Things may not be looking good for Ollie as he is now in the middle of something possibly bigger than he's prepared to handle but it's looking great for readers and fans of the character. This is Green Arrow as you want to see him. This is definitely going to be a fun ride.