The 10 Greatest Green Lantern Comic Book Runs, Ranked

As a longtime comic book fan with a particular affinity for the Green Lantern Corps, I can’t help but be utterly captivated by the iconic runs of both Ron Marz and Geoff Johns on this beloved franchise.

“In Brightest Day, in Blackest Night. No evil shall escape my sight.” The Green Lantern, the protector of Space Sector 2814, has said that oath for decades. As a character, Green Lantern has been a mainstay of DC Comics since 1940, with many different heroes wielding the emerald Power Ring. Soon, DC Studios will tackle a Green Lantern TV series for HBO, simply called Lanterns. So now is the perfect time to take a deep dive into the many decades of Green Lantern comics from DC. And to help you choose, we present to you the ten greatest Green Lantern comic book runs of all time.

10. The Green Lantern

by Grant Morrison and Liam Sharp

Grant Morrison is one of the greatest writers in modern comic book history, having written definitive runs for DC’s Superman, Batman, Justice League, and Wonder Woman. While we can’t say their Green Lantern run is a truly definitive run for the character, it definitely contained many interesting moments. In 2018, Morrison took on Green Lantern Hal Jordan, for a new ongoing series simply called The Green Lantern. The intricately detailed artwork for almost the entire run was provided by UK artist Liam Sharp, doing some career-best work.

Morrison often favors the unconventional approach in their take on “Green Lantern.” Instead of focusing on the vast ensemble cast that had been a staple of GL mythology for years, they put greater emphasis on Hal Jordan’s character development. In Morrison’s interpretation, Hal transforms from an ordinary man into someone whose mind has been expanded by his encounters with cosmic events, death, and rebirth. However, not all elements in this run resonate equally well, as Morrison occasionally strays too far into the abstract for a “Green Lantern” comic. Nevertheless, some of the innovative ideas, particularly Sharp’s captivating artwork, make this series worth exploring if you are a devoted fan of “Green Lantern.”

Issues in Grant Morrison’s Green Lantern Run:

The Green Lantern #1-18, Blackstars #1-3 (2018-2021)

9. Green Lantern War Journal

by Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Montos

Despite being the first African American superhero for DC Comics, John Stewart hasn’t had many opportunities to star in his own “Green Lantern” series. The initial attempt was the unconventional and intriguing “Green Lantern: Mosaic” from 1992. However, in 2023, DC granted John another chance at a solo ongoing title with the impressive “Green Lantern: War Journal,” written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson and illustrated by Montos.

In this series, John Stewart yearned for tranquility on Earth, intending to hang up his hero cape. However, when a baffling threat emerged, he was compelled to don the Power Ring again. This narrative resolves the conflicting portrayals of the character: the compassionate architect from the ’70s versus the tough-as-nails Marine from the 2000s “Justice League” animations. The answer? Why not merge the two aspects? Regrettably, this engaging comic book will conclude after only 12 issues in 2023. Nevertheless, the first eleven issues were captivating and a must-read.

Issues in Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Montos’ Green Lantern War Journal Run:

Green Lantern War Journal #1-12 (2023-2024)

8. Green Lantern Corps (vol. 1)

by Steve Englehart and Joe Staton

During the early ’80s, the Green Lantern comics lost their excitement. After a ten-year partnership with Green Arrow, Hal Jordan went solo as the Green Lantern. However, aside from the backup stories of Green Lantern Corps in Tales by Alan Moore, nothing much was new or interesting about the Green Lantern series. To shake things up, DC retired Hal and introduced John Stewart as his replacement for an extended period, followed by Guy Gardner. Still, these changes didn’t significantly boost sales. In response to the events of Crisis on Infinite Earths, DC decided to make some major adjustments. The Green Lantern title would transform into a team comic book.

Starting with issue #201, the title of “Green Lantern” transformed into “Green Lantern Corps.” Steve Englehart, who had previously worked on “Avengers” and “Batman,” took charge of the writing, while Joe Staton provided distinctive artwork. In the aftermath of “Crisis,” the Guardians left this dimension, allowing their Corps members to forge their own paths and eliminate the concept of space sectors. A team formed under Hal Jordan’s leadership, comprising John Stewart, his wife Katma Tui, Guy Gardner, the rodent-like Green Lantern named Ch’p, and a fresh recruit called Kilowog, who gained significant popularity among fans. This phase demonstrated that “Green Lantern Corps” could succeed as a team book, despite its brief 24-issue tenure. It’s unfortunate that this series is not compiled today, a gap DC needs to address promptly.

Issues in Steve Englehart and Joe Staton’s Green Lantern Corps Run:

Green Lantern Corps vol. 1 #201-224 (1986-1988)

7. Far Sector

by N.K. Jemisin and Jamal Campbell

N.K. Jemisin, a renowned science fiction author, penned this intriguing limited series. Jamal Campbell’s captivating illustrations accompanied the text. The story introduced an entirely novel protagonist, Earth’s latest Green Lantern named Sojourner “Jo” Mullein. As if we didn’t already have enough Green Lanterns from Earth in DC Comics!

In the narrative of “Far Sector,” newly appointed Green Lantern Jo Mullein embarks on an investigation, as the first murder in half a millennium unfolds on a distant planet. Contrary to common portrayals of Green Lanterns in other stories, this series acknowledges that their role is not merely one of soldiers in space but rather that of interstellar law enforcers. The complexities of policing, both in the vastness of space and on Earth, are explored, particularly from the perspective of those with minimal power. “Far Sector,” published in 2020, is a captivating solo tale that warrants more recognition. Fortunately, Jo Mullein has since been integrated into the broader DC Universe.

Issues in N.K. Jemisin and Jamal Campbell’s Far Sector Run:

Far Sector #1-12, 2020-2022

6. Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn

by James Owsley, Keith Giffen, Gerard Jones, and M.D. Bright

Following the conclusion of the Green Lantern Corps, only two Green Lanterns remained on Earth: Hal Jordan and Guy Gardner. While Guy featured prominently in the Justice League International series, Hal Jordan, the original Green Lantern, found himself without a base. In an attempt to revitalize Hal Jordan’s origin story post-Crisis, DC published the limited series Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn in 1989. This project aimed to gauge whether Hal was still a crowd favorite and deserving of his own ongoing series once more. The team behind this endeavor included writers James Owsley, Keith Giffen, and Gerard Jones, as well as artist M.D. Bright. Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn quickly gained popularity, leading to a sequel and eventually the revival of Hal Jordan’s solo series.

In this six-issue mini-series, Hal’s past was fleshed out with intriguing new details. Before donning the Lantern mantle, Hal wasn’t entirely virtuous. He grappled with numerous personal troubles that surfaced even before Abin Sur’s Power Ring selected him. Among these challenges was a prison sentence for a DUI-caused car accident. Moreover, it was revealed in this series that Sinestro, later known as Hal’s arch-nemesis, served as his Green Lantern mentor at one point – a plotline that continues to shape Hal’s narrative today. The artwork by M.D. Bright, with its blend of contemporary and classic styles, keeps this comic engaging and enjoyable even now.

It’s important to mention that among the three authors of “Emerald Dawn,” Gerard Jones, has a criminal record for serious offenses. This may be the reason why the series hasn’t been reprinted.

Issues in Keith Giffen, James Owsley, Gerard Jones, and M.D. Bright’s Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn Run:

Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn #1-6 (1989-1990), Green Lantern: Emerald Dawn II (1991)

5. Green Lantern (vol. 2)

by John Broome, Gardner Fox, and Gil Kane

As a passionate gamer and avid comic book reader, I can’t help but be in awe of the rich history behind Green Lantern’s mythology. While there was a Green Lantern during the Golden Age, it was really the Silver Age stories that shaped who Green Lantern truly is for us today.

In the memorable Silver Age run of Green Lantern, an iconic period in comic book history, the introduction of Hal Jordan was just the beginning. This era also brought to life the Green Lantern Corps, the Guardians of the Universe, Sinestro, and numerous other enduring concepts. Although some may find the characterizations simplistic and a tad goofy, a product of the times, the captivating storytelling and Gil Kane’s stunning artwork are sure to captivate you. While Hal’s adventures during this period predominantly took place on Earth, later writers would build upon this foundation and elevate Green Lantern to new heights.

Issues in John Broome, Gardner Fox, and Gil Kane’s Green Lantern Run:

Showcase #22-24, Green Lantern vol. 2 #1-60 (1959-1960)

4. Green Lantern Corps

by Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason

During Geoff Johns’ remarkable tenure on “Green Lantern,” many praise his work as the pinnacle of superhero storytelling. Rightfully so. However, it’s important not to overlook the exceptional quality of the companion “Green Lantern Corps” series during that time, written by Peter J. Tomasi with art by Patrick Gleason. After the successful mini-series “Green Lantern Corps: Recharge,” DC decided to give an ongoing GLC series another try. Mostly set in space, this series showcases Honor Guard Lanterns John Stewart, Guy Gardner, Kyle Rayner, and others as the main characters.

As a longtime fan of the Green Lantern Corps, I can’t help but be thrilled by the addition of new and exciting characters like Soranik Natu, who stepped up as Sinestro’s replacement in this series. Reading “Green Lantern Corps” alongside Geoff Johns’ main Green Lantern title created a sense of grandeur and interconnectedness that felt epic in its scope.

Issues in Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason’s Green Lantern Corps Run:

Green Lantern Corps vol. 2 #1-47 (2006-2010),

3. Green Lantern/Green Arrow

by Denny O’Neil and Neal Adams

Towards the close of the Silver Age in American comic books, there was a notable shift. Instead of being primarily read by elementary school children, an increasing number of college students were turning to these publications. Consequently, the themes and characterizations became more intricate, most notably at Marvel Comics. In response to this transformation, DC commissioned the talented team of Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams in 1970. Their mandate was to revamp Green Lantern into a socially relevant series. To accomplish this, they introduced Green Arrow as a joint protagonist, leading to one of the most beloved bromances in comics. With issue #76, Green Lantern’s title officially morphed into Green Lantern/Green Arrow.

During the “Hard Trravellin’ Heroes” comic book series by O’Neil and Adams, Hal Jordan embodied traditional American values while Oliver Queen’s Green Arrow became a radical, counterculture hero. These two contrasting characters clashed as they journeyed across America tackling societal issues such as racism, drug addiction, and even cults reminiscent of Manson’s followers. At times, the storytelling could come off as heavy-handed and didactic, but the captivating artwork and engrossing narratives by O’Neil and Adams made up for it. This influential series saw the emergence of John Stewart, and Hal and Oliver remained a team throughout the 1970s. Despite the passage of time, this run by O’Neil and Adams continues to be regarded as a benchmark in comic book history.

Issues in Denny O’Neil and Neal Adams’ Green Lantern/Green Arrow Run:

Green Lantern/Green Arrow #76-89 (1970-1972)

2. Green Lantern (Vol. 3)

by Ron Marz and Daryl Banks, Paul Pelletier

In 1994, the comic book industry experienced a significant setback with the occurrence of what became known as the comic book market downturn. Sales for previously successful franchises, such as Green Lantern, saw a drastic decline. For instance, titles like Green Lantern, which had three editions and a quarterly publication just a few years prior, were now struggling. In an attempt to revive flagging sales, DC Comics took a risky move during their Death and Return of Superman storyline. Hal Jordan, the former Green Lantern, went insane, destroyed the Green Lantern Corps, and transformed into the villain Parallax within just three issues. The last remaining power ring was then given to a young slacker wearing a Nine Inch Nails t-shirt, marking the beginning of a new era for Green Lantern.

In 1994’s “Green Lantern” #50, the final Guardian of the Universe bestowed the last Power Ring upon jobless artist Kyle Rayner, transforming him into the last Green Lantern. A stark contrast to Hal Jordan, Kyle was younger, more relatable, and had a greater affinity for art than aviation. Ron Marz assumed writing duties with Daryl Banks on illustrations, resulting in a hero tailored to the ’90s, which continues to resonate with fans. Kyle’s adventures bore strong resemblance to Spider-Man’s everyday superhero struggles, all while striving to uphold an iconic legacy. Marz penned the initial issues during a period when “Green Lantern” significantly bolstered DC Comics’ publishing roster. A decade later, Hal made his return, but Kyle’s tenure as Green Lantern is indisputable.

Issues in Ron Marz’s Green Lantern Run:

Green Lantern vol. 3 #48-125 (1994-2000)

1. Green Lantern (vol. 4, vol. 5)

by Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, Ethan Van Sciver, Doug Mahnke

In terms of “Green Lantern” comic book authorship, it’s widely acknowledged that Geoff Johns’ nearly decade-long tenure from 2004 onwards stands out as exceptional. At the time, the series was struggling. Kyle Rayner remained the lead Lantern, but the title had lost its momentum after a prolonged period. The absence of creator Ron Marz added to the sense of stagnation. Hal Jordan’s transformation from villain to deceased character to spectral hero, the Spectre, further complicated matters. The Corps was disbanded, leaving the franchise in a state of disrepair. However, Johns quickly revitalized the series with his groundbreaking mini-series “Green Lantern: Rebirth.”

In “Green Lantern: Rebirth,” Johns and artist Ethan Van Sciver breathed new life into the series by resurrecting Hal Jordan and his arch-nemesis Sinestro. They provided a believable reason for Hal’s previous allegiance to darkness, introducing the fear entity Parallax that had controlled him. During Johns’ tenure, collaborating with artists such as Ivan Reis and Doug Mahnke, they significantly expanded the Green Lantern universe unlike anyone before. Their work resulted in some of the most captivating ongoing superhero storytelling in recent history.

During his time as writer for Green Lantern, Johns brought about the formation of the Sinestro Corps, and introduced the Emotional Spectrum and various other colored Lantern Corps: the fiery Red Lanterns fueled by rage, the Third Army, and most notably, the groundbreaking mini-series “Blackest Night.” In this series, the Black Lantern Corps emerged, consisting of reanimated corpses of deceased DC characters. Johns’ work on Green Lantern was so influential that no writer has managed to surpass it since. For a while, Green Lantern became DC’s second most popular franchise next to Batman. The impact of Johns’ writing will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of fans for a long time to come.

Issues in Geoff Johns’ Green Lantern Run:

As a longtime fan of comic books and specifically, the Green Lantern Corps, I’ve had the pleasure of following Hal Jordan’s journey through various stages of his superhero career. The Green Lantern saga is one that has always intrigued me with its complex characters and intriguing storylines.

2024-07-19 02:33