Directed by: Jeff Wamester
Written by: Ernie Altbacker / John Semper
Starring: Aldis Hodge / Jimmi Simpson / Nolan North / Jamie Gray Hyder / Brian Bloom
Popcorn Rating: 3 Buckets
Concise Review: This animated feature presents a complex and audacious narrative, with its portrayal of the veteran Green Lantern, Hal Jordan, potentially sparking debate among comic enthusiasts.
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Movie Sieve
Despite sharing the iconic “Green Lantern” as its central figure, the underwhelming reception of the 2011 live-action film hasn’t hindered the creation of numerous animated Green Lantern movies. Perhaps due to the live-action film’s fleeting impact on audiences, coupled with the animated versions’ distinct interpretations, the two are rarely associated. Thankfully, this allows the Green Lantern saga to be continually reimagined on screen.
The film follows John Stewart, a returning war veteran struggling to readjust to civilian life. One night, a spacecraft crash-lands nearby, and with his dying breath, an alien entrusts him with a glowing ring. This ring, it turns out, is the Green Lantern’s ring, and John Stewart finds himself unable to remove it. Seeking answers, he seeks out Green Arrow and other superheroes aboard their ship. He learns they are grappling with an intergalactic conflict. Stewart decides to use the ring’s power to help resolve the war, only to encounter the ring’s original owner – the former Green Lantern, Hal Jordan.
A Bold New Direction
This animated film ventures into intricate and daring territory, particularly in its depiction of Hal Jordan, which may not sit well with all comic book aficionados. However, the narrative unfolds with clarity, and Hal Jordan’s transformation is adequately developed, preventing it from feeling abrupt. The final reveal is surprisingly impactful. While the new Green Lantern’s personality isn’t extensively explored, perhaps because it’s not the film’s primary focus, it does leave viewers intrigued about future stories centered around this new hero.