Green Lantern: The Animated Series has been the life-line of the franchise for fans since Warner Bros.’ live-action feature film didn’t go over too well with the fan base. After a 13-episode half season that covered plenty of the mythology, Green Lantern: The Animated Series recently returned and brought along a new guy…Guy Gardner.
While interviewing producer Giancarlo Volpe earlier this summer about the show’s return, we talked just a little bit about Guy Gardner’s introduction and how it’ll affect Hal Jordan. He hinted that Hal and Guy will have a rivalry, which turned out to be one of the most hilarious and unique ones yet. Early on in the episode, Hal reunites with Carol and promises her that he can stay on Earth to maintain a healthy relationship, an option that Hal definitely tries to explore. The story of this episode is as simple as an unlikely duo working together to stop the threat, but since they’ve actually both been on the same team since the beginning, it adds a nice spin to the teasing they do to each other. Upon returning to Earth, Hal discovered that Guy Gardner had basically reached celebrity status among everyone, including the Green Lantern Corps and The Guardians, which had made Hal confused. The pair’s rivalry focused on who they think should be the rightful protector of Earth, and the better Lantern. The episode is full of fun moments of “the Corps loves me better!” or “I’m the rightful person” fights, even during fights with a menacing threat. However, Hal and Guy soon learn that they may have more in common than they think.
Diedrech Bader (a former Batman) provides an enjoyable portrayal of Guy Gardner, however sometimes can be inconsistent (but always conveys the douche bag persona) while Josh Keaton doesn’t fail to impress as Hal Jordan. This episode also actually features a heavy appearance from Carol Ferris who is voiced by the great Jennifer Hale. However, it’s disappointing to note that she probably won’t ever be a series regular. It’s going to be an interesting season though, seeing what the writer’s room have up their sleeve. Razer and Aya may possible be in love while the Anti-Monitor is flying through the universe destroying everything in its path. Sinestro, Tomar-Re and Ch’p are also making sure their presence will be felt.
A very stellar episode with great voice talent and improved animation, Green Lantern: The Animated Series doesn’t fail to impress with its big return. I recommend you buy the “Rise of The Red Lanterns” DVD immediately to catch up.
4/5 Stars.