Coffee Table Chaos

La Mesita del Comedor, or The Coffee Table, a 2022 Spanish horror film, is a cinematic delight that takes viewers on an unexpected journey from the ordinary to the extraordinary. From the very beginning, the film plunges into a world of chaos and intrigue, setting the stage for a thrilling exploration of how the most banal decisions can unravel the fabric of a family.

At its core, the single-setting horror film revolves around the seemingly trivial decision to purchase a coffee table. This choice, however, spirals into a catalyst for an unexpected event that threatens to destroy a marriage from within. The mundane act of acquiring a piece of furniture becomes a profound statement about the fragility of domestic life and the unforeseen consequences of our everyday choices.

The central theme of La Mesita del Comedor is the precariousness of familial harmony and how a single, seemingly innocuous decision can lead to unforeseen turmoil. The dining table, a symbol of unity and togetherness, turns into an instrument of discord and division. The film masterfully uses this piece of furniture to explore deeper issues of trust, communication, and the hidden tensions that often lie beneath the surface of family life.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the character of the husband. Throughout the narrative, the audience is kept on edge, constantly wondering what his next move will be. His unpredictable behaviour adds a layer of suspense and tension that drives the story forward. He is a complex figure, whose motivations and actions are shrouded in mystery, keeping viewers engrossed and guessing until the very end.

La Mesita del Comedor is a single-setting film, confining its action to the intimate space of a family’s home. This choice enhances the sense of claustrophobia and intensifies the drama, as the characters’ interactions and conflicts are magnified in the confined space. The film’s direction and cinematography excel in making the most of this setting, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

La Mesita del Comedor is a little gem of a film that is well worth watching. Its exploration of the unexpected consequences of mundane decisions, combined with its suspenseful narrative and brilliant use of a single setting, makes it a standout in contemporary Spanish cinema. The film’s ability to keep the audience guessing and its profound thematic depth ensure that it will leave a lasting impression on all who see it.

Available for streaming.

-Dirk Lombard Fourie