Green Lanterns #12 (2016) – Comic Review đąđ«
Genre
Superhero, Sci-Fi, Cosmic Drama, Action
This issue blends traditional superhero storytelling with cosmic-scale conflict and emotional depth. It’s part psychological thriller, part interstellar showdown.
Main Characters
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Jessica Cruz – The determined and anxiety-prone rookie Green Lantern learning to master her fears.
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Simon Baz – A passionate and brash Green Lantern of Earth, driven by a strong sense of justice.
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Frank Laminski / Phantom Lantern – A desperate man turned unstable wielder of the Phantom Ring, shifting between Lantern emotional spectrums.
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Volthoom (First Lantern) – A powerful ancient being secretly manipulating events from the shadows.
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Singularity Jain – A villain linked to Jessica’s past, known for manipulating emotions and exploiting psychological trauma.
Writer
Sam Humphries
Humphries continues his strong narrative arc, bringing emotional stakes to the forefront, especially through Jessica’s personal struggles and the Phantom Lantern’s tragic descent.
Artist
Eduardo Pansica
Pansica’s artwork brings a vibrant, energetic feel to every panel—particularly with the varied Lantern color effects and cosmic backdrops.
Editor Details
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Group Editor: Eddie Berganza
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Editor: Andrew Marino
Their editorial direction keeps the pace tight, the stakes escalating, and the tone consistent with the evolving mythology of the Lantern Corps.
Publisher and Brand
DC Comics | DC Rebirth
Part of the DC Rebirth initiative, this issue continues to deepen character arcs while keeping the overarching narrative accessible to new readers.
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In Green Lanterns #12, the conflict with the Phantom Lantern escalates as Frank Laminski, driven by desperation and emotional instability, seeks vengeance against the Corps. Now wielding the Phantom Ring—capable of channeling any emotional spectrum—Laminski's power is as unpredictable as his mental state.
As Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz attempt to neutralize the growing threat, Jessica must confront an old nemesis—Singularity Jain—whose return adds psychological weight to the battle. Meanwhile, a deeper danger brews: Volthoom, the First Lantern, uses the chaos as a cover for his hidden machinations, threatening far more than just Earth’s sector.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
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“The Phantom Lantern” (Parts 1–6) – This arc introduces the Phantom Ring and expands on the emotional spectrum mythology. It challenges the idea of worthiness and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
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Jessica Cruz’s Mental Health Journey – The comic continues exploring anxiety through Jessica’s experiences, offering rare, layered character development in superhero comics.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
đ The Phantom Lantern as a Foil to Green Lantern Ideals
Fans often interpret Frank Laminski as a dark reflection of what could happen if the Lantern Corps abandoned their standards of emotional balance. Unlike chosen Lanterns, Frank gains access to every spectrum but lacks the will to control it, suggesting that unearned power is ultimately destructive.
đź Volthoom’s Grand Scheme
Another circulating theory is that Volthoom’s subtle manipulations during this arc are not merely distractions but steps toward reclaiming or reshaping the Emotional Spectrum entirely—hinting at his deeper connection to future conflicts in the Green Lanterns series.
Review Summary
đ„ Green Lanterns #12 delivers a compelling mix of cosmic action and emotional depth. Sam Humphries crafts a narrative rich in internal and external conflict, making Jessica and Simon’s dynamic feel fresh and genuine. Eduardo Pansica’s artwork pops with color—especially in scenes where the Phantom Ring rapidly shifts between spectrums, showcasing the instability of Frank’s powers.
Jessica’s personal growth remains a highlight, bringing representation and nuance to a superhero genre often dominated by invulnerable personas. The pacing is tight, the stakes feel real, and the looming presence of Volthoom promises even greater threats ahead.
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 – A well-balanced issue blending psychological insight with blockbuster spectacle.
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Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
