The Emotional Spectrum & Cosmic Crisis in Pages 1 to 5
The issue starts with a strong cover that says "THE STARBREAKER SUPREMACY BEGINS," which gives a big, dramatic feel for a huge battle. Pages 2 to 5 explain the main problem: the Emotional Spectrum, a powerful force from the universe, is getting out of control. It needs a way to focus its energy, but without that, it's breaking apart and could cause the universe to explode. The Guardians of the Universe, who have lost their memories and powers, admit they can't fix this on their own. They ask the Green Lantern Corps to help rebuild the Central Power Batteries, which is the only chance to stop the Spectrum from tearing reality apart.
Meanwhile, a secondary plot follows an unnamed character (possibly a Lantern) probing the mind of someone named Keli, searching for the source of her debilitating headaches. This subplot hints at a personal connection to the larger cosmic threat.
The Hunt for the Song Stones: Pages 6-12
The Lanterns—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, and Guy Gardner—along with their friends, go on a mission to find the Song Stones. These are special crystals that can boost emotional energy. The stones are important because they help restart the Central Power Batteries. The team’s dynamic shines here, with Guy’s sarcasm ("WHAT COULD GO WRONG?") contrasting Hal’s confidence and John’s cautious leadership.
Tension builds as they infiltrate a dangerous location, awakening a crystalline dragon-like guardian. Hal’s reckless solo attempt to secure the stones leads to a chaotic encounter, ending with the creature roaring in defiance—cliffhanging into the next section.
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Corruption and Conflict: Pages 13-16
The Lanterns’ mission takes a darker turn as emotional energy corrupts their allies. Amethyst, the young Princess of Gemworld, is overwhelmed by jealousy, lashing out at Star Sapphire. The scene visually depicts the Spectrum’s destabilization, with Amethyst’s emotions weaponized against her friends. Star Sapphire subdues her, but the damage is done—the team is fractured, and the stakes feel personal.
Starbreaker’s Ambush and the Final Gamble: Pages 17-22
The villain Starbreaker arrives, mocking the Lanterns’ efforts. A corrupted ally, Nathan, resists redemption, forcing the team to confront him while battling Starbreaker’s forces. Despite the chaos, they secure one of the three Song Stones, losing the others to Nathan.
The issue’s emotional core peaks as Amethyst and Star Sapphire reconcile, with Hal acknowledging the toll of their mission. The Lanterns race back to OA, hoping one crystal is enough to reignite the Batteries before Starbreaker does the same for his own sinister purposes.
Aftermath and Tribute: Pages 23-26
A haunting scene reveals Razer, a fan-favorite character, emotionless and detached—a teaser for future storylines. The story then becomes more emotional, paying a touching tribute to artist Jackson “Butch” Guice (1961–2025), honoring his famous work on Resurrection Man and other DC comics. Colleagues like Dan Abnett and Mike Carlin praise his timeless artistry, adding a meta layer of reverence to the comic.
“Worlds Collide” Backup Story: Pages 27-30
A Gotham-based side story follows Batgirl and Nightwing as they intercept a museum heist led by Catwoman and Gotham’s rogues, all vying for Pandora’s Box. The conversation is quick and witty (Catwoman says, "ALLEGEDLY"), but things get serious when Two-Face flips a coin to choose Batgirl's fate—ending with a classic suspenseful ending.
Superman Film Feature: Pages 31-32
A promotional interview with director James Gunn highlights the upcoming Superman movie, emphasizing David Corenswet’s casting and inspirations like All-Star Superman. Gunn really loves the character because it connects to the story's ideas about hope and passing on traditions.
Green Lantern #025 (2025) – Comic Critique
Rating: 8.5/10
Strengths
✅ High-Stakes Cosmic Storytelling – The Emotional Spectrum crisis is a compelling, universe-level threat that ties into the Lanterns’ core themes of willpower vs. emotion. The urgency feels real, and the Guardians’ desperation adds weight.
✅ Character Dynamics – Hal Jordan’s recklessness, John Stewart’s leadership, and Guy Gardner’s humor create a balanced team dynamic. Amethyst's struggle with jealousy really stands out, showing how much being part of the Spectrum affects a person's feelings.
✅ Art & Pacing – The action sequences (crystalline dragon fight, Starbreaker’s ambush) are visually dynamic, and the issue balances exposition with fast-paced storytelling.
✅ Emotional Depth – Razer’s hollowed-out state and the tribute to Butch Guice add layers of melancholy, grounding the cosmic chaos.
✅ Backup Story & Extras – The Batgirl and Nightwing heist is a fun contrast, and James Gunn's Superman interview is a nice extra for DC fans.
Weaknesses
⚠️ Overstuffed Plot – The main story juggles Song Stones, Starbreaker, Nathan’s corruption, Razer’s subplot, and Keli’s headaches—some threads feel rushed.
⚠️ Villain Underdevelopment – Starbreaker’s motives are vague beyond "cosmic domination." His taunts lack depth compared to past Lantern foes like Sinestro or Atrocitus.
⚠️ Backup Story Feels Disconnected – While enjoyable, the Gotham heist clashes tonally with the main narrative.
Final Verdict
8.5/10 – A strong, action-packed issue with emotional weight, though slightly overcrowded.
- The rising stakes will appeal to cosmic DC fans.
- Character-focused readers will appreciate Hal’s growth and Amethyst’s arc.
- Critics might find Starbreaker generic and the pacing uneven.
Worth buying for Lantern devotees, but new readers should start with #024 for context.
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