I highly recommend this refreshing film. The director took a difficult subject and made it approachable through the characters wonderful acting. The pace of the film is slow to digest all the feelings and emotions that are pouring through each person. The main character was also a delight to see- I had not seen her in any other film before and can hardly wait to see her next piece. The scenery is also gorgeous and reminded me of my college time in Virginia. A poignant time in life and a poignant piece to reflect on with love and loss. Romance can be hard and this film is authentic. You will enjoy this short story. It is worth the watch.
17 Reviews
Must see
mdwiersm8 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I've watched this movie three times in the past four days, and each time, I'm more impressed. It's truly a masterpiece, delving into profound themes with thoughtfulness and depth. The film explores the struggles of mistrustful souls who suffer due to their unwillingness to humble themselves to one another, delivering a haunting warning to viewers about the consequences of withholding and receiving love freely.
The acting is exceptional across the board, with standout performances from Nichole, her mother, Joy, and Alex. With each viewing, I've been able to appreciate the nuances in their individual stories even more.
The cinematography is also remarkable, with framing choices, panning, stationary shots, and following movements adding layers to the storytelling and enhancing the portrayal of underlying feelings. It's a film that leaves a lasting impact and warrants multiple viewings to fully appreciate its depth and beauty.
The acting is exceptional across the board, with standout performances from Nichole, her mother, Joy, and Alex. With each viewing, I've been able to appreciate the nuances in their individual stories even more.
The cinematography is also remarkable, with framing choices, panning, stationary shots, and following movements adding layers to the storytelling and enhancing the portrayal of underlying feelings. It's a film that leaves a lasting impact and warrants multiple viewings to fully appreciate its depth and beauty.
Exceeded expectations
rickrbg6 April 2024
This group of newcomers created a compelling and believable experience. I enjoyed most of the characters and was very impressed with Cade Gass and Sofia Smith. They brought the believability, emotion and expression considering the content and the challenges they faced. I don't want to expand much further due to the possibility of spoilers. I will purchase this video when available on Amazon. As I said in the title this movie exceeded expectations due to the level of professionalism, cinematography and viewing experience. If you get a chance definitely add this to your watch list. Thank you Stuart Howes, very impressed.
Will definitely watch again!
agnews-9967417 February 2023
I was very riveted to the screen by the powerful acting and believable storyline in Tableau. Nicole (Sofia Smith) did a wonderful job of conveying the powerful emotions that she was felt when her mother nonchalantly announced her affair. Without using words, her eyes and her expression drew me in and evoked compassion and heartache in that moment of disillusionment. This movie did a good job of portraying a scene that is so often played out in homes....one person acts selfishly and wants everyone to just "move on and forget about it". In Tableau, we get a glimpse at the inward turmoil and negative consequences experienced by Nicole, but we also see her rise up by moving on and seeking to care for and protect her sister.
10/10 Would Recommend!
mackbe-645035 April 2024
This film exceeded my expectations! The cinematography, storytelling, and music were all mesmerizing. The cast did an incredible job at pulling you into the story. Alex, played by Cade Gass (who I loved in his previous Lifetime Movies), brought so much relief to the story, while also making you feel the same excitement of being young and in love. Sofia Smith also gave a very real and grounded performance. I'm so impressed with this production, and I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good coming-of-age style film.
Also loved that the movie was very mature in emotion and story, while also being very family friendly! You can watch this with the grandparents and the kids.
Also loved that the movie was very mature in emotion and story, while also being very family friendly! You can watch this with the grandparents and the kids.
Engaging and relevant
iawhowes6 April 2024
This is an easy to watch movie that has plenty of funny and light hearted moments despite addressing an important topic of betrayal and the affect on inter-family relationships. After a brief affair, Nicole's mother tries to move on with life assuming everyone else can too. The movie does a nice job of examining the far-flung effects from the affair and the difficulties of repairing important relationships. Sofia Smith is excellent as Nicole, the college age daughter trying to protect her younger sister and having to deal with a Type-A mother and a lovable but feckless father. Sobering, thought-provoking and at times funny. Well worth a watch.
The aesthetic is so amazing
kelseybyrge7 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I loved watching this movie, the aesthetic was so nice, and Alex's character was great!! I loved the language aspect of the French and how it later correlated to the end result of the plot. Nicoles vibe is very earthy, and indie(I absolutely loved her character). I enjoyed every part about this movie including the outfits from Alex! The movie was so easy to watch, it was very laid back and what I like about a movie. The scenes of this production were so pretty, the White Houses, street lights, and overall picture was outstanding! This is truly a beautiful piece of art, and if you love anything "indie" style, this is the movie for you! Enjoyed every second of it and best wishes to the actors who helped create this film!
Beautiful movie!!
mmkoselka11 April 2024
This is a beautifully filmed movie that is well paced. It's a movie about the consequences of refusing to own your mistakes. I thought the film handled the subject matter in a thoughtful way balancing poignant drama with lighter more humorous moments. The scenery was gorgeous and the musical score artfully connected scenes supporting the plot throughout. I thought all the performances were terrific but especially notable to me were Sofia Smith as Nicole and Cade Gass as Alex. The film underscores well how our actions speak louder than our words as the story displays the unfolding tension between Nicole and her mother. A masterful directorial debut - I look forward to his future works with great anticipation.
Light and lovely, but also thought-provoking!
stephenmutz7 April 2024
Howes' debut film is shot in wonderful fashion, with an incredible original score, and fantastic chemistry between the cast. The story is both relatable and foreign in a way that keeps you fully engaged throughout as you progress through senior year alongside the protagonist. The balance of future dreams, current relationships, and potential loss come together to form a thought-provoking narrative and delicate touches of family, friendship, and romance throughout.
Also very fun to see a number of Chapel Hill locations in favorites throughout the film, especially Maple View ice cream! Expectant for more!
Also very fun to see a number of Chapel Hill locations in favorites throughout the film, especially Maple View ice cream! Expectant for more!
Weighed down
jroyals-0434118 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Not a bad start and the lead actress, her sister, and boyfriend were all quite appealing. Beyond that, the film was weighed down by too much melodrama. As if not enough that the sister is ill, they throw in the mother's infidelity. The film weaves back and forth between college to home, from one mundane conversation to the next. For such a short running time the pacing is slow as molasses. There is a ridiculous scene with the dad where he dances with the mom. Whose dad acts like this? I suppose that was supposed to show what they once had before his wife stepped out on him and the family. I feel like the director manufactured as much adversity as possible for our young protagonist which made for painful, tedious scenes. The acting is generally good overall, and the end really does show that mother can't just move on even though she wants everyone else to. The film also shows the dangers of listening to controlling parents in your adulthood rather than making your own decisions and taking risks.
Artistic and Authentic
lrbrgqst5 May 2024
I loved being brought into the emotions of this timeless depiction of a family who desires their own ideas of closeness, but are faced with the disjointed realities of disappointments. Through the eyes of college student, Nicole, you experience the many different pulls to want to please those around her but her efforts seem to be missing the mark. The conflict within allows her to accept opportunities as personal avenues of growth and independence. There's fantastic cinematography and I was struck by the artistic way Stuart Howes used scenes as "Tableaus" to show snapshots of what Nicole was experiencing. All in all, a very thought provoking film. Look forward to seeing and experiencing more of his work!
Poignant and entertaining
Filmeagle69619 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Terrific interplay between a controlling mother (Michelle) and her daughter who's about to graduate from college (Nicole). After a one night stand, Michelle decides she needs to let Nicole know about her affair but also expects Nicole to understand and move on. Well supported by Michelle's feckless husband and Nicole's boyfriend and younger sister, the movie explores the fallout from selfish decisions. I was left wanting more and wondering how selfish decisions I've made in my life have inadvertently affected others. Strong performances from Sofia Smith (Nicole), Amy Davis (Michelle) and Dimi Bissig who plays Michelle's husband.
Highly recommend
heatherebock-2401118 April 2024
A poignant movie about leaving home and the coming of age challenges. Great cinematography, complex characters and touching story throughout Tableau. I may watch it again to appreciate the imagery and metaphors sprinkled throughout the movie. The characters were interesting to watch as the story evolved. I loved seeing the scenery and scenes around UNC - a beautiful backdrop to the story. The close-ups made the scenes come to life- thoughtful scrip and editing of the movie. The actors spoke through their expressions as well as their words. I look forward to more movies by Stuart Howes in the future.
Riveting!
sofiasofunny25 April 2024
Will there be another one?!!!??
I don't to give away anything, but the end will leave you wanting more AND some explanations.
I have watched it a couple times.
The whole cast did a fantastic job in making the story seem believable, as a situation that happens behind the closed doors of families, but is never seen.
The accuracy of family controversy and mother daughter relationship is real and crisp!
The reason I give it a 9/10 and not a 10 is because of some acting choices and continuity spots that i saw, but that is because I am picky.
Can't wait to see where this film goes!
Praying for it to reach the heights!
I don't to give away anything, but the end will leave you wanting more AND some explanations.
I have watched it a couple times.
The whole cast did a fantastic job in making the story seem believable, as a situation that happens behind the closed doors of families, but is never seen.
The accuracy of family controversy and mother daughter relationship is real and crisp!
The reason I give it a 9/10 and not a 10 is because of some acting choices and continuity spots that i saw, but that is because I am picky.
Can't wait to see where this film goes!
Praying for it to reach the heights!
A deeply felt coming of age film
hjpnntkpz22 April 2024
"Tableau" is a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery and resilience, anchored by a compelling performance from Sofia Smith in the lead role of Nicole. Smith brings depth and authenticity to her portrayal of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, capturing the nuances of her character's journey with grace and sensitivity.
As Nicole navigates the highs and lows of her final year of college, she grapples with the pressure to succeed in her chosen career path while also confronting the complexities of her romantic relationship with a fellow student, portrayed with charm and depth by Cade Gass. The chemistry between Smith and Gass is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their on-screen romance.
Director Stuart Howes skillfully captures the beauty and complexity of Nicole's world through stunning cinematography and evocative imagery, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in her journey of self-discovery. Shot in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina, each scene is imbued with a sense of intimacy and authenticity that draws the viewer into Nicole's world.
Smith is further bolstered by a wonderful ensemble cast. The movie also explores the complicated relationships Nicole has with her mother, father and even at times, her sister, Lou. Some of the supporting characters, including Nicole's family members, could have been given more depth and development to fully flesh out their relationships. This might have been accomplished, if given a little more time.
Despite these minor shortcomings, "Tableau" is a moving and emotionally resonant film that will strike a chord with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. With its compelling performances, stunning visuals, and heartfelt storytelling, "Tableau" is a must-see for fans of coming-of-age cinema.
In conclusion, "Tableau" is a touching and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of one's dreams, anchored by a standout performance from Sofia Smith and supported by a talented ensemble cast. Whether you're a fan of heartfelt drama or simply appreciate beautiful storytelling, "Tableau" is sure to leave a lasting impression.
As Nicole navigates the highs and lows of her final year of college, she grapples with the pressure to succeed in her chosen career path while also confronting the complexities of her romantic relationship with a fellow student, portrayed with charm and depth by Cade Gass. The chemistry between Smith and Gass is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their on-screen romance.
Director Stuart Howes skillfully captures the beauty and complexity of Nicole's world through stunning cinematography and evocative imagery, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in her journey of self-discovery. Shot in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina, each scene is imbued with a sense of intimacy and authenticity that draws the viewer into Nicole's world.
Smith is further bolstered by a wonderful ensemble cast. The movie also explores the complicated relationships Nicole has with her mother, father and even at times, her sister, Lou. Some of the supporting characters, including Nicole's family members, could have been given more depth and development to fully flesh out their relationships. This might have been accomplished, if given a little more time.
Despite these minor shortcomings, "Tableau" is a moving and emotionally resonant film that will strike a chord with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. With its compelling performances, stunning visuals, and heartfelt storytelling, "Tableau" is a must-see for fans of coming-of-age cinema.
In conclusion, "Tableau" is a touching and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of one's dreams, anchored by a standout performance from Sofia Smith and supported by a talented ensemble cast. Whether you're a fan of heartfelt drama or simply appreciate beautiful storytelling, "Tableau" is sure to leave a lasting impression.
A little gem
William-Arr19 April 2024
In a world of multi hundred million dollars sequels this is a refreshing small budget movie that masterfully examines interpersonal family relationships when a mother informs her twenty-something year old daughter that she's had an affair. After telling her daughter about the affair the mother is torn between wanting everyone to move on and forget things and needing to invest the time with her daughter and husband to own it and repair the damage she's caused. What makes this movie special is its ability to make the audience start examining their own lives. A great debut movie for Stuart Howes.
Refreshing and relatable
egmarechal12 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This short film made me feel all the confusing and bittersweet emotions of being a senior in college- met with tough decisions, uncertain career direction, family tangles, and budding young romance. It all felt refreshingly relatable and the North Carolina scenery reminded me of home. This movie left me craving more, which is both frustrating and a testament to its ability to captivate an audience. I had not seen this lead actress in anything yet, and I'm looking forward to seeing what she will do in the future! I enjoyed this film and will be recommending it to friends and family. I really hope Lou makes it to Paris too!
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