Before his reunion with Hattie, The Doctor arrives in a town called Sweet Haven where a sinister smile hangs in the sky…
The Doctor’s last solo trip before he reunites with Hattie sees him landing in the middle of a town’s destruction, where waitress, Penny, is almost besieged by the residents of the town. Forming a barricade against the rest of the town, The Doctor discovers a house with a huge smile protruding from it, and a family who have been possessed by a ‘reality warping emo-parasite from the oblivion shadow.’
The characterisation of the Doctor feels firmly reliable and coherent to the series and the supporting characters provide a bitter opposition to The Doctor’s enthusiastic and playful presence. Character Penny has clear potential as a companion, displaying bravery and selflessness.
Writer James Peaty has given us an entertaining story with a disturbing threat in the form of a smile. There could have been more weight to the Saprophyte threat in terms of their visual appearance. But the language the Saprophyte communicates with adds an ‘otherness’ to their existence which undoubtedly strengthens their emotional connection with the reader.
Artist Warren Pleece demonstrates creativity and a keen eye at visualising the poignant moments of the story. He allows character expression to rest strongly as the driving force behind the emotional ties the character’s experience.
The ending has a quiet and intimate look that works wonderfully with the dialogue between The Doctor and Billy as The Doctor reminds him to remember the happy times with his parents at the local diner.
The Boy with the Displaced Smile explores the limitless creativity that the show promotes and serves the story well with solid artwork and a sweet ending that can’t help but make you smile.
Blogtor Rating 7/10
