The latest installment of the Green Arrow comic series throws a curveball that fans of John Diggle, especially those familiar with the Arrow TV show, will not want to miss. While the cover might hint at the ongoing high-stakes conflict with the Ninth Circle, and Black Canary’s confrontation with their sinister human trafficking ring, the true highlight of this issue is the powerful and long-awaited face-to-face encounter between Oliver Queen and John Diggle.
For readers new to the Green Arrow comics, John Diggle’s presence might be a pleasant surprise. Similar to Harley Quinn’s journey from the Batman animated series to comic books, Diggle, a character originally created for the Arrow TV series, has seamlessly transitioned into the comic universe since 2013. His appearance in this story arc, therefore, isn’t entirely unexpected, yet it carries a significant emotional weight, especially given the unspoken history and tension hinted at between him and Oliver.
David Ramsey’s portrayal of Diggle in the Arrowverse is iconic, and it’s hard not to hear his voice while reading Diggle’s dialogue. However, this comic book version of John Diggle is distinctly different – more assertive, less refined, and perhaps even more challenging in his interactions with Oliver. The dynamic between them crackles with a buddy-cop energy, reminiscent of classic pairings, where Diggle embodies the “Hawk” to Oliver’s “Spencer” – a nod to those familiar with 80s detective shows. This assertive portrayal adds a fresh and compelling layer to Diggle’s character within the Green Arrow narrative.
The overarching narrative of this Green Arrow arc revolves around Oliver Queen’s relentless battle against the Ninth Circle. This shadowy organization is nefariously exploiting Oliver’s own fortune to finance their criminal operations, including a large-scale human trafficking ring operating in Seattle. After a brief hiatus, Dinah Laurel Lance, also known as Black Canary, returns to the forefront, finding herself directly in the crosshairs of the Ninth Circle’s machinations and their intricate web of connections to Shado and Emiko. Her storyline adds another layer of intensity to the already gripping plot.
From its inception, this Green Arrow series within the DC Rebirth universe has consistently delivered high-quality storytelling. It remains a standout title, skillfully blending timely humor and lighter moments with the gravity of Oliver’s ongoing struggle against the Ninth Circle. Benjamin Percy’s writing continues to capture the essence of Green Arrow, crafting storylines, characters, and dialogue that resonate deeply with fans. This issue, in particular, exemplifies why the series is so engaging, leaving readers yearning to see these narratives brought to life in live-action while simultaneously appreciating the depth and richness offered within the comic book medium.
This issue of Green Arrow earns a resounding 5 out of 5 rating, solidifying its place as a must-read in the DC UNIVERSE REBIRTH lineup. For fans eager for more, this series is published twice a month, with the next issue scheduled to release on August 17th. Make sure to grab your copy to witness the continued evolution of John Diggle’s role and the escalating conflict with the Ninth Circle.
