I love graphic novels for a whole host of reasons. Mostly though, I love them because a good graphic novel presents the melding of art and literature into an experience that feels like a trip to an art museum and a library rolled into one. What could be better!
Now don't get me wrong, there are plenty of graphic novels that don't come anywhere near managing this feat but "Tale of Sand" is not one of them. Based upon a lost, 1960's-1970's era screenplay by Jim Henson and Jerry Juhl, the two geniuses behind the Muppets and Sesame Street, "Tale of Sand" is a mind bending blend of existential Americana tropes and utterly gorgeous poppy pastels drawn by Ramon Perez.
The plot, if it can be called such, follows the story of an unnamed man who, after arriving in an unknown town with no knowledge of who he is or why he is there, must participate in a strange event in which he is forced to flee across the desert chased by an assortment of villains. Sound strange? It is.
Yet "Tale of Sand" is more an evocation of emotion than a story and its blending of classic cartoon styles and realistic images, wild west and modern movie action, 1950's square culture and the 60's and 70's resistance to this culture all with artwork that is both understandable and yet modern-museum-worthy brings out a whole load of emotion.The most prominent of which is awe. "Tale of Sand" is art and literature that leaves your mouth slightly agape, just like a wonderful library or art museum.
No comments:
Post a Comment