The Arrival By Shaun Tan (3)

I absolutely loved The Arrival by Shaun Tan. After reading this comic book I found myself speechless. Since this is my first time reading a comic without words, it was a mesmerizing experience! Both the art style and page layout really helped support the concept of immigration. This work really showed the emotions that immigrants go through during the whole process. Most importantly, It also shows what the people went through before they moved. I'm glad that this part was included because it builds up more emotion. It also helps the reader understand what people went through prior. This comic is visually enhanced by the use of dark values, shape language, and composition. This can be seen when the dark, sharp, and monster-like tentacles are floating over the empty streets. This comic does an excellent job of showing the difference of the old and new world, and how one must adapt. When I was reading this, I kept thinking of the Wizard of Oz. Even though this isn’t a dream, the reader starts off with the dreary black and white beginning. Then we see this transition to a new and mysterious start. This new start is similar to the new technicolor world of Oz. Some of the elements that reminded me of this film are the hot air balloon, and the dreamy cityscape that resembled the emerald city. I felt like this was somewhat intentional. I also think this comic is both beautiful yet haunting. Throughout the story we see slavery, war, and death. The way these concepts were illustrated reminded me of Francisco Goya’s paintings and drawings. As an illustrator, I really appreciated everything this amazing comic book had to offer. From every little detail to the overall message, it was a masterpiece. I would definitely recommend this comic book!

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