Green Arrow #24 marks a powerful and poignant conclusion to the “Fresh Water Kills” arc, solidifying the current run by Chris Condon and Montos as a standout in Green Arrow’s long history. This issue isn’t about bombastic action sequences, though the tension remains palpable. Instead, it delves deep into the moral and emotional fallout of the preceding events, offering a mature and thought-provoking exploration of Oliver Queen’s commitment to justice and the complexities of societal failures.
Condon’s writing shines in its nuanced portrayal of Oliver. We see him grappling not just with the immediate aftermath of the environmental disaster and the actions of the Freshwater Killer, but with his own responsibility and the limitations of vigilante justice. The dialogue is sharp and meaningful, particularly in Oliver’s extended conversation with Kenny, the leader of the Freshwater Killers. Oliver’s heartfelt gesture to Kenny lands powerfully, and Montos masterfully captures this touching moment.
Credit: DC Comics
Green Arrow #24 is a compelling exploration of the roots of desperation and the flawed attempts to enact change when systems fail. Condon avoids painting Kenny as a one-dimensional antagonist, instead revealing the tragic circumstances that led him down a dark path, adding a layer of uncomfortable understanding and empathy to the story.
Furthermore, Condon expertly captures the core of Green Arrow as more than just a skilled archer. He emphasizes Oliver’s empathy, his intelligence, and his unwavering dedication to the “little guy.” The issue showcases his willingness to speak truth to power, even from behind bars, in a moment that felt both earned and incredibly satisfying for long-time fans of the character. This run has consistently returned Green Arrow to his grounded, socially conscious roots, and #24 is a powerful culmination of that effort.
Montos’ artwork, consistently complemented by Adriano Lucas’s moody and evocative coloring, is a perfect visual partner to Condon’s script. Montos excels in conveying the raw emotion of the characters, particularly in the poignant flashbacks and the intense confrontations. The gritty, street-level aesthetic that has defined this arc remains, grounding the story in a tangible reality that enhances the impact of the social commentary. There are moments of intense visual storytelling, relying on shadow work and impactful character expressions, that speak volumes without the need for dialogue. The action, when it occurs, is impactful and visceral, but it’s the quiet, character-driven moments that truly resonate.
Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou’s lettering is also noteworthy, adding to the overall rhythm and texture of the storytelling. The impactful sound effects during moments of tension and the more restrained lettering in quieter scenes contribute significantly to the emotional weight of the issue.
Credit: DC Comics
Green Arrow #24 is a near-perfect issue that serves as a powerful and resonant conclusion to a compelling arc. Chris Condon and Montos, along with the rest of the creative team, have delivered a story that is not only a fantastic Green Arrow story but also a poignant commentary on real-world issues of environmental negligence and social injustice. This run is a shining example of socially conscious superhero storytelling, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what this talented creative team will deliver next.
‘Green Arrow’ #24 Review: Fresh Water Kills Arc Poignant Conclusion
Green Arrow #24 is a near-perfect issue that serves as a powerful and resonant conclusion to a compelling arc. Chris Condon and Montos, along with the rest of the creative team, have delivered a story that is not only a fantastic Green Arrow story but also a poignant commentary on real-world issues of environmental negligence and social injustice. This run is a shining example of socially conscious superhero storytelling, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what this talented creative team will deliver next.
