This limited series is running behind schedule, and there's no denying that it's lost some momentum as a result. This issue boasts a couple of confusing moments and even a couple of corny ones, but those moments are eclipsed by intense, cool action sequences, with classic characters doing new and unexpected things. Green Lantern: Rebirth isn't taking iconic characters in daring new directions. It isn't redefining an archetype for a new century. Johns is telling a story about a character returning to his roots, as a hero, pure and simple. On the surfance, this looks like a dark, edgy take on super-heroes, but in reality, it's a return to a more traditional, brighter tone.
Sinestro is back from the dead and wreaking havoc in the JLA Watchtower, where only Green Arrow and a badly injured Kyle Rayner stand to oppose him. Meanwhile, Ganthet, a Guardian of the Universe, frees Green Lanterns John Stewart and Guy Gardner from the thrall of Parallax, and they join the elder alien in a fight against the creature composed of pure fear. And they're not alone, as a throng of other heroes arrive to enter the fray as well. Meanwhile, the Spectre separates from Hal Jordan's soul, freeing it to seek out a new host while Jordan is finally called into the afterlife.
Ethan Van Sciver's work here is more than a little reminiscent of the style of Phil Jimenez, especially when it comes to the more crowded scenes. The artist is really on his game when it comes to the Sinestro/Arrow/Kyle scenes. Sinestro's callous and almost bored expression is chilling, given the brutality he so casually rains down on the heroes, and Green Arrow's Herculean effort to step into a role he was never meant for really shines through on his face and body language.
There's so much going on in this issue, it's easy to get a little lost at times. There are multiple Hal Jordans running around, for example. The fleeting nature of John and Guy's malevolent intentions makes me wonder what the point of it was, and the appearance of most of the major heroes from the DC Universe is a surprisingly anti-climactic moment, especially given their inefficacy. Still, the action is fun and colorful, and the dialogue allows some little bits of characterization to creep into this action-oriented story.
The Sinestro/Arrow scenes are definitely the strongest ones in the book. Green Arrow's newfound appreciation of a Green Lantern's abilities and mettle make for a wonderful moment. If the villain's actions were enough, Johns's script really paints a chilling picture of the sort of evil and cruelty of which Sinestro is capable. This book isn't just a Hal Jordan revival, but breathes new life into a classic villain as well. 7/10
