Many filmmakers intentionally trick their audiences using camera movements, tone, and more to mislead or misdirect their audiences. What may seem like a completely normal scene or piece of dialogue may have a different meaning later on. First-time filmmaker Stuart Howes succeeds in misdirecting his audience with his debut film, Tableau.
We meet the aspiring photographer and soon-to-be-college-graduate Nicole (Sofia Smith). Seemingly part of a normal, loving family, Nicole’s life is soon turned upside down after her mother Michelle (Amy Davis) reveals a romantic indiscretion of her past while Nicole is on summer break from school. While her father Guy (Dimi Bissig) seems unaffected by this revelation, Nicole’s world changes.
To make matters worse, the family doesn’t tell Nicole’s ailing sister Lou (Katie Bezilla). They feel as if she isn’t “mature” enough to know. Regardless, this revelation takes its toll on protagonist Nicole. The weight of her mother’s secret permeates every part of her life. Whether it’s an internship opportunity, maintaining a bond with her sister, or pursuing romantic interests, the weight of her mother’s secret makes it almost impossible for Nicole to choose a path. In a brilliant metanarrative scene, Nicole reveals to a friend that she wants to shoot “tableaus.” These are model sets representing scenes from a story.
What does this admission truly mean for Nicole? Is it a form of escapism, a way to use her passion to deal with her own complicated feelings? Will her parents approve of it? And what will become of the sickly Lou? The film takes some unexpected turns as the narrative progresses. Howes creates a true sense of unease, and in a mere 72 minutes forms a taut film that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The film's compelling portrayal of young adult protagonists and its resonance with films like Lady Bird makes it a fitting choice for enthusiasts of indies, family dramas, and main characters pursuing the arts, making it a standout in any collection.