By Sixto Saavedra, Jr., Entertainment/Media Critic

Whether you are a new reader to the DC Universe or have some knowledge from the animated series or live action shows, DC Rebirth is a good place for anyone to start and continue their enjoyment of their favorite heroes. For those who are new to the comics, Rebirth is DC’s “retake” on their iconic DC super-heroes. Their focus is to give more depth to both characters and story while remaining faithful to the lore that made these DC heroes phenomenal for decades. To quote the DC Chief Creative Officer, Geoff Johns, “For the DC Universe, its more about just the heroes or villains we might not have seen in a while; it’s about the intrinsic values of what DC Comics and its universe stands for. That’s epic storytelling. That’s legacy and honoring the past, while moving it all to the future. That’s hope.”

Now if you don’t know where to begin, I do have a recommendation. DC Universe Rebirth: Green Arrow.

Green Arrow is written by Ben Percy and incorporates an Iron Man/Batman-esque feel similar to the popular CW TV series. Oliver Queen becomes the Green Arrow after the death of his father to fight the corruption that has overtaken Seattle. Instead of super powered villains, Percy offers a more reality driven look where the villains aren’t always people with powers, but of those from high positions in society.

One of the villains that really interested me was Komodo. As the man who betrayed Oliver’s father, but also involved in a shocking secret, Komodo is a villain with so much to gain. He has many advantages, such as being a deadly archer that is part of the Outsiders and having an equally deadly apprentice.

Some of my favorite scenes are in issue 16, where Oliver surrounded by his allies affirms that his friends are his family. Percy balances these touching scenes with some pretty gruesome ones. At the end of that same issue, someone ends up with an arrow in the back of the skull, with a blood soaked tip protruding from the forehead.

The art by Stephen Byrne, Juan Ferreyra, and Otto Schmidt looks outstanding- very crisp and detailed.

The DC Rebirth: Green Arrow is a character I have come to appreciate. It does service to those who are longtime fans of Green Arrow as well as those who are new fans exploring comics. Beyond Batman and Superman, you will likely find a comic book you will enjoy and/or relate to. For me, it was Green Arrow. The story pushed me forward to a new appreciation for comic books.

Check Out Our Selection of Green Arrow Comics: CLICK HERE