(Image Source: DC / Rafael Albuquerque)
The first issue of Absolute Green Arrow is another bullseye hit for DC. The publisher’s new Absolute Universe line has been critically and commercially successful. However, the new series distinguishes itself with some deep cuts into classic comics lore and a horror theme that grips the reader and doesn’t let go.
The action centers around Dinah Lance. A former cop turned MMA fighter known as Black Canary, Dinah left both jobs to become an “executive protection specialist.” This was because being a bodyguard to rich jerks pays her dad’s medical bills better than being a civil servant or modern-day gladiator. She was also, years earlier, the girlfriend of tech magnate Oliver Queen.
(Image Source: DC / Rafael Albuquerque)
It is this last point that gets Dinah transferred to a new client, who fears he’s the next target of a serial killer going after billionaires. Both Oliver and his former business partner (whom Dinah knew) are believed to be victims of the same killer. However, after her first contact with the assassin dubbed the Longbow Killer, Dinah isn’t entirely convinced he is human.
Absolute Green Arrow draws on lore yet still accessible
More than any Absolute Universe title to date, Absolute Green Arrow references other books within the line. Brief reference is made to Oliver Queen’s death in Absolute Evil. This first issue also features Hector Hammond from Absolute Green Lantern. However, familiarity with either book is not required. These are just Easter eggs for fans of the line.
(Image Source: DC / Rafael Albuquerque)
Writer Pornsak Pichetshote makes some similarly deep cuts into classic comics lore. For instance, Dinah’s therapist shares a name with a therapist from the 1980s Green Arrow series. Likewise, Olie’s former business partner (who is a Jeffrey Epstein stand-in) shares a name with a kingpin from the 70’s Green Lantern/Green Arrow comic.
These little touches show the craft that went into the story, even before we see familiar names on a suspect list for the Longbow Killer. However, Picheshote also establishes several mysteries to explore in later issues. Beyond the Longbow Killer’s identity, there is a hook regarding the dark past of Dinah’s mother.
(Image Source: DC / Rafael Albuquerque)
The artwork is just as complex and involved. Rafael Albuquerque is rightly regarded as a master of his craft and every page shows why. The action flows smooth as silk and even the scenes of talking heads have a subtle sense of motion. The colors by Marcelo Maiolo are perfectly chosen, with most pages having a thematic tint. The exception to this is the action sequences, where the shadows clash with the colors like they were waging war.
Absolute Green Arrow #1 is a rare first issue that does everything right. The artwork and story work together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a longtime Arrow-head or a newcomer to Green Arrow or the Absolute Universe, this is one book you don’t want to miss.
Grade: 10/10
