“We’re laying down our rings”

When we first met Sarko last issue you could tell that Venditti was planting some seeds about the character’s lineage. This issue he’s drops more a big clue that is hard not to pick up on. I do think that tipping his hand so obviously lessens the impact on the reader when and if we get an on-panel revelation. I think I would have preferred to be read that moment as a surprise along with the characters rather than experience it as a confirmation of a foregone conclusion.
With this issue really focusing on action there isn’t a lot happening in terms of plot progression, but given how much fun the issue is to read I don’t really mind it one bit. The Green Lanterns are left in a lurch and it’s up to Hal and Rip Hunter to save the day. I do really like what Venditti has come up with for Hal to have to deal with in this issue’s final moments. It reminds me a little bit of a variation on the Oblivion character during the Kyle Rayner era, but with a twist. If indeed Hal is about to face something of his own making I think it’ll be a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Rafa Sandoval is back for this issue and as one might expect the issue looks gorgeous. There are some issues with Kilowog’s proportions which really show up when they revert back to their civilian clothes. But otherwise the issue is another solid showing from Sandoval and the rest of the art team.
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #20 feels like an action sequence from a big summer blockbuster. While the issue is light on plot development there’s enough to keep the narrative moving forward while giving readers a fun experience. Eight out of ten lanterns.