Green Lantern: First Flight (2009)

2 Discs DVD

The Green Lantern mythos come to the bronze screen in this thrilling chapter of the DC Universe exceptional line of animated movies. In Justice League: The New Frontier, the second in the line, we glimpsed a small part of Hal Jordan's origin in embracing his destiny as a Green Lantern. It is within this new fifth installment that we get the full treatment, from the retelling of that very same origin to a larger, more widescale story, as Jordan is inducted into The Green Lantern Corps, the self-imposed "Guardians of the Universe." Hal Jordan's first adventure is - Green Lantern: First Flight.

The story quickly delves into the rich mythology surrounding the emerald costume along with its synonymous ring of power. As much as it is a story of the ultimate initiation of sorts to prove one's worth as a super-being of immense authoritative dictatorship, I find that it is more of a story about bravery, coming into one's own, and the longing of acceptance. I enjoyed the film. Which is a rarity among my efforts, for immersing myself into anything specifically surrounding comic book-themed elements usually result in large disappointments and massive constructive criticism. However, that being said, I must admit to being ignorant to the Lantern mythos. I am well aware of their importance in the DC Universe as well as Hal Jordan's Green Lantern presence as the top of the line of all the B-Tier characters, with The Flash pulling a close runner-up. And while I was largely oblivious to the Corps, I found that I could sit back and take my time to let the story play out, opposing my usual take as to waiting for certain events to unfold, as they do in the corresponding characters' mythologies. I find myself open to this stance more recently, as I have begun to watch the well-known out-of-whack Supes mythos TV series, "Smallville," yet again. Anyways, that little irrelevant detail aside, I therefore had no idea what to expect in the story of the Lanterns and their galactic judicial government, and was surprised to find that the main plot device of the source of power of the rings, and thereby, all Green Lanterns, was a keen interest in moving the story forward.

The animation was top-notch, but really, did you expect much less after seeing the other Animated Original Movies from DC/Warner Premiere? Didn't think so. Sinestro was a superb mentor/villain, and keeps you entertained throughout his arc while also keeping you guessing what his true motives are. There are also some double-crosses and other surprises that I found enjoyable. To me, this was like Superman meets Star Trek. Yet I only wished it could have been a little longer of a film, although the special features entirely make up for it.

Over 2-and-a-half hours worth, here's what you get.

Disc One with Movie
Exclusive Sneak Peek at Superman/Batman: Public Enemies
This is going to be so awesome, I literally cannot wait! Yes it's the geek in me, but with a name like ComicBookFan you can't expect for me to be above this. All the previous voice actors from Bruce Timm's DCAU are returning to voice their respected roles, and the storyline comes from one of the most thrilling modern adaptations of Supes and Bats from just a few years ago! Not to mention a SLEW of characters make appearances, like THE ENTIRE LEGION OF DOOM, just to name a few, President Lex Luthor, and the massive Kryptonite Asteroid. This will undoubtedly be the best in the series. I'd put my money on that.

Behind the Scenes of Blackest Night, The Epic DC Comics Super Hero Event in which the Dead Rise
Very interesting segment regarding Summer 2009's company-wide publication in DC Comics, told by the writers themselves. Though as I said I am not big on Lantern tales, this take actually looks quite intriguing.

3 Other DC Universe Animated Original Movie Promos

Disc Two
Behind the Story with Geoff Johns: The New York Times' Best-Selling Writer Discusses the Mythology of the Green Lantern
The heart of these releases' extras, I thrive on these featurettes and are the primary reason I target their 2-Disc Special Edition counterparts. This opened the door for me to appreciate the epic history of one of DC's most beloved characters. Not to mention it's officially documented by Geoff Johns, one of the best writers in comics, TV, and films to date.

Duck Dodgers Series Episode: "The Green Loontern"
A funny take on Daffy Duck becoming a misplaced, crimefighting superhero when his laundry is switched with Hal Jordan's.

Green Lantern Corps Character Profiles: Sinestro and the Guardians of the Universe

Bruce Timm Presents: 2 Bonus Cartoons
Two Justice League Unlimited episodes revolving around Green Lantern, similar in fashion to what they did on the Wonder Woman DVD.

I may seem a bit biased in my review, but this time it has no pre-formulative umph behind it. It is simply because I enjoyed the movie. And while this may ring true for many of you who decide to see it, I encourage you to do so regardless. DC has once again brought us a quality release, much to my satisfaction. At this rate, the company seems fit to take the lead as the #1 comic book enterprise, much to the help of all the great writers as well as having Bruce Timm on their side. I would not be surprised if this generates enough positive praise in order for the live-action film to be made. I can only wait silently in great anticipation for the sixth installment which is sure to outdo them all.