Fantastic Dining Room (1899)

Name: Fantastic Dining Room
Genre: Fantasy
Released: 1899-01-01

Running Time

Plot.

Showing the interior of a dining room of a modest cottage, whereto enter a young couple to partake in their meal, which is being served up by the maid. Suddenly the legs of the table are extended to three times their height; the dinner being elevated to this extent; in order to reach same they climb into the chairs. The table suddenly vanishes, but makes its appearance in another section of the room. It is practically a chase between them and the table, this finally disappearing altogether, and in its place is seen a gigantic bottle of "Scotch." Further surprising tricks are introduced, making this subject one of unusual interest. (Selig Catalog)

Where to Watch.

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Cast & Crew.

Georges Méliès

Director

Details.

Release Date
January 1, 1899

Original Name
Salle à manger fantastique

Status
Released

Running Time
1m

Genres
Fantasy

Last updated: 2025-02-15

This Movie Is About.

silent film

trick film

Wiki.

A Dinner Under Difficulties (French: Salle à manger fantastique) is an 1899 French silent trick film by Georges Méliès. It was sold by Méliès's Star Film Company and is numbered 171 in its catalogues. The film is a simple sketch in which a man accidentally knocks over his dining table, sending his meal to the floor. The problem is solved when, by magic, the table and its contents fly in backward motion back into place.

The film features Méliès's first known use of reverse motion, a special effect probably created by cranking the camera backward. Prints of A Dinner Under Difficulties survive at the British Film Institute and the George Eastman Museum.