Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast. For this entry, we’re continuing on the all-ages epic unfolding Comixology Originals via Best Jackett Press. Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine by Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano has brought an exciting tale of a young man who’s life is anything but ordinary after becoming involved in a situation bigger than he could ever fathom. Issue #3 just dropped so let’s take a closer look at what the next installment brings, shall we?

Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #3 - On Sale November 8th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano
Credit: Comixology Originals/ Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Dudley Datson is a student of the Brooklyn Academy of Engineering and the inventor of “Duds” an L.C.D. integrated fiber clothing. After debuting it with less than perfect results, Datson walks in on his mentor, Dr. Shae dying in protection a watch with special meaning from a group called the Prometheans. Datson literally cannot catch a break. The only one keeping him alive is Dr. Shae’s pet dog, Daedalus….who is no ordinary dog. Daedalus is the actual Daedalus of the Athenian Family of legend. They thwart off the inital wave of attackers to where Daedalus shows Datson the base of the Chymical Society, and why that watch is so important. Storytime is cut short as Perdix, Daedalus’ nephew has come home looking for the watch.

This issue jumps in (like the previous ones) with a small bit of narration concerning inventors. Issue #3 focuses on Labyrinths, and how they come across as a form of checks and balances to ideas. The time for talking stops there as readers are now back to present time with Perdix demanding the watch from Datson. Luckily for the young inventor, Daedalus has a few tricks still left up his sleeve and morphs into a combat version of himself. Daedalus puts Datson in a safe room and makes an attempt to fight his nephew on his own. However, this is no ordinary safe room as readers will see soon enough. The battle rages forth as the family members fight. When Daedalus is in danger of losing, Datson makes a dramatic entrance with a way to stop Perdix. Readers will definitely enjoy that panel shot!

With his luck being the way this is, how does Datson fare here? Readers see how the odd pairing of Daedalus and Datson need to work together and if they don’t the consequences can be dire. If they survive Perdix, what fate lies ahead for them? Can these two ever catch a break? Readers will have these questions answered and then some with all that unfolds from here. Just wait for the tremendous final image to drive home the danger that lies ahead.

Three issues in and one theme stays very consistent: Readers can tell how much fun the creative team is having making this book. Snyder keeps throwing in fantastic curves to the direction of the story. From last issue’s reveal of Daedalus’ true nature to this issue’s final moments, the plot-twists hit effectively. It feels larger than the story, but it works flawlessly to the tale being told. Having the brief narration to kick the books off is a creative touch that gives readers a loose sense of what could be a factor in the issue ahead. Issue #3 is no exception. Once readers see how that plays out, it adds to an already dramatic ending to this installment. The unlikely pairing of Datson and Daedalus will be what fans enjoy most about this issue. Seeing this pair have to find a way to work with each other and survive gives this story a whole new energy that all readers can appreciate. The story continues to push the imagination limits with where it goes each time out. This issue is no exception with some amazing creativity.

Igle delivered some eye-catching moments in this issue. Seeing the evolution of Daedalus with his combat gear was a treat. He’s been one character that since his reveal has been enjoyable to watch. The battle between Daedalus and Perdix didn’t hold back and made for an energetic, fast-paced fight. Datson’s re-entrance into that foray was another standout moment. Arguably, the moment that stands out the most is the pair’s argument right after their big fight. Igle plays into Datson’s anger and insecurities with how he’s drawn there. On the other side, even in canine form, Daedalus shows his emotion when Datson draws it out of him (see the “Watch Your Words… panel). The final image goes right into how much fun they’re having here. There is much to enjoy within these pages.

Final Point: Snyder, Igle and the creative team bring a visionary world to life without skipping a beat. Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine continues to be a must-read title due to its’ excellent writing and innovative art. The story is a lock to win over readers of all ages. It never misses a moment to impress and dive into an ingenious direction when needed to. If you’re looking for a fun, energetic read, look no further than this series and issue. Make sure you pick this up from Comixology this week!

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Thanks for reading!

DUDLEY DATSON AND THE FOREVER MACHINE #3 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

Ken M