Before we begin the latest class I just want to make sure everyone interested in this post remembers that TODAY IS FREE COMIC BOOK DAY!!!! Head to your local shop for all the goods.
The first time I read an issue of the Green Lantern, I have to admit, the idea of creating a super hero out of a ring seemed a bit… Crackerjack Box. But since that first issue, I’ve been somewhat hooked on the John Stewart (not the famous guy on Comedy Central) storyline. So before you dismiss the Green Lantern make sure to check out some facts and learn a little bit about his history. How about right now?
Green Lantern should be thought of as a title, and not a person.
The very first Green Lantern was published by DC and created by Bill Finger and Martin Nodell in 1940.
The very first “ring” possessed magical powers, but as time went on it was revealed that the “ring” was in fact a manufactured technological advancement bestowed upon individuals worthy of wielding the “ring.”
The ring gives the wearer complete control over the physical world enabling them to create and manipulate any object no matter the size.
The title of Earth’s Green Lantern has been given to 5 main DC characters (Alan Scott, Hal Jordan, Guy Gardner, John Stewart and Kyle Rayner).
Alan Scott was the original Green Lantern who crafted the magical ring from a magical lamp.
Hal Jordan was later introduced as Green Lantern when he was given the ring by a dying alien.
Guy Gardner was actually the second choice behind the dying alien Hal Jordan saved.
John Stewart came into play when he was chosen to replace Guy Gardner who went into a coma.
Kyle Rayner was chosen to wear the final Green Lantern ring for his knowledge of fear.
The universe consists of many Green Lanterns chosen by the Guardians of the Universe. As a whole, all of the Green Lanterns are referred to as the Green Lantern Corp.
Green Lantern has been involved with The Justice League since its inception.
Green Lantern is not Green Arrow (although they did have a few cross-over issues) or Green Hornet.
Alan Scott’s daughter Jade once wielded the ring, but was killed in a battle with Lex Luthor Jr.
Hal Jordan once turned evil in the form of Parallax where he destroyed a lot of the DC Universe. He was later returned to his true self with the help of Spectre.
After rising from a coma, Guy Gardner became an unstable Green Lantern. He is currently in charge of Green Lantern training.
A lot of this can get confusing with the constant changing of titles and multiple ring bearers, but some of the Green Lantern’s stories are really good reads. He was heavily involved in Infinite Crisis as well as playing a huge role in a lot of the JLA story lines. There have been rumors about a Green Lantern movie, but nothing is confirmed at this point. Not sure which character they would focus on, but they’ve got plenty to choose from.
April 22nd, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Um, yah a lot has been confirmed about the GL movie.
Its being made by Warner Bros. filmed in Sydney, Australia. Still looking for lead actor to play the role of Hal Jordan.
Being directed by Campbell who directed Casino Royale.
the budget is 150 mill approx. And the release date is for Dec 17, 2010.
Its all over the internet.
superherohype.com will keep you in the know.
April 27th, 2009 at 7:45 am
Thanks Nathan.
Some rumors have Chris Pine wearing the ring. Any confirmation on this?