The Tulse Luper Suitcases, Part 1: The Moab Story
A comic study of 20th-century history, reconstructing the life of writer, creator and professional prisoner Tulse Luper. Born in 1911 Newport and last heard of in 1989, Luper’s life is pieced together from the evidence found in 92 suitcases scattered across the globe. In the first of three parts, we follow Luper through three distinct episodes: as a child during the First World War; as an explorer in Mormon Utah; and as a writer in Belgium during the rise of fascism.
Insights
Plot Summary
Architectish Thomas "Tulse" Luper is imprisoned in a desolate Utah prison for alleged crimes against the state and society. He spends his days meticulously cataloging his 157 suitcases, each containing a different narrative. As he grapples with his confinement and the enigmatic nature of his charges, Luper constructs a complex world within his mind, exploring themes of exile, obsession, and the fragmented nature of memory through the contents of his suitcases.
Critical Reception
The Moab Story, the first installment of The Tulse Luper Suitcases, received a mixed to positive reception. Critics often praised Greenaway's distinctive visual style and ambitious conceptual framework, while some found the narrative fragmented and elusive. Audience reception was similarly divided, with its experimental nature appealing to some while alienating others.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unique visual aesthetic and intellectual ambition.
- Criticized by some for its dense and often obscure narrative.
- Seen as a challenging but rewarding experience for adventurous viewers.
Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be visually striking and thought-provoking, though many noted its unconventional storytelling made it difficult to fully grasp. Appreciation was often directed towards its artistic merit, while some expressed confusion about the plot's direction.
Fun Fact
The entire 'Tulse Luper Suitcases' project was conceived as a multimedia experience, intended to be released across various platforms including film, television, exhibitions, and books, with 'The Moab Story' being the first filmic chapter.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources