Just after releasing their fourth straight to DVD feature, Warmer Bros has announced that the stage has been set for a Green Lantern animated film. Entitled First Flight, the movie will feature popular ring slinger Hal Jordan in the title role and no doubt retell the classic origin story as he is recruited to join the Green Lantern Corps. As a member of the Corps, he serves under the red-skinned senior officer Sinestro. However, as their friendship grows, Jordan discovers that Sinestro is not who he appears to be and is actually a tyrant ruling over his designated sector rather than protecting it. This leads to an explosive confrontation between the two compatriots.
Christopher Meloni (Law & Order: Special Victims Unit) voices the central role of Green Lantern Hal Jordan. Co-starring in the movie is Battlestar Galactica’s Tricia Helfer as the vivacious Green Lantern Boodikka and Victor Garber (Milk, Titanic) as the Sinestro. Written by all star animation scripter Alan Burnrett and produced by Bruce Timm, First Flight will hit the streets July 28, 2009.
This is all part of a concerted effort on Warner’s part to compete in the super hero movie war waged with its competitor Marvel Comics. As Marvel has blazed a path to success with its Avengers franchise, it has been a decidedly one-side war with only the Dark Knight film making a real impact on movie goers. With Sony’s Spider-Man set to return for two more installments and the X-Men Origins films in full development, Warner really needs to hit one out of the park and the story is that Green Lantern is going to be that magic movie.
Set for a 2010 release date, little is known of the live action Green Lantern project aside from Bond director Martin Campbell being attached. The animated feature should ignite some interest in the galactic adventurer and hopefully win back some of DC Comic’s reputation.
A teaser is attached to the new Wonder Woman straight to DVD film out next week.
