"Safety Not Guaranteed" is a charming and thought-provoking indie film that captivated audiences with its blend of science fiction, romance, and quirkiness. Released in 2012, this film directed by Colin Trevorrow delivers a heartwarming story about time travel and human connection.
Release Date and Director: "Safety Not Guaranteed" made its debut on January 22, 2012, under the direction of Colin Trevorrow, who later gained prominence for directing "Jurassic World."
Synopsis:
The film follows the misadventures of a magazine team investigating a bizarre classified ad that reads, "Wanted: Somebody to go back in time with me.
This is not a joke. You'll get paid after we get back." Intrigued by this unusual request, journalist Jeff (played by Jake Johnson) and interns Darius (Aubrey Plaza) and Arnau (Karan Soni) set out to discover the story behind the ad.
Their pursuit leads them to Kenneth (Mark Duplass), a socially awkward but passionate supermarket clerk who genuinely believes he can travel through time.
Darius, posing as a potential time-traveling companion, finds herself drawn to Kenneth, and as their peculiar mission unfolds, she grapples with questions of love, trust, and the possibility of the impossible.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"Safety Not Guaranteed" is a film that celebrates the human spirit's ability to believe in the extraordinary, even in the face of the mundane. The movie weaves elements of science fiction into a character-driven narrative, exploring themes of trust, connection, and the lengths we go to in order to find meaning in our lives.
Audiences are drawn to the film's unique and heartwarming take on time travel, as well as the genuine chemistry between its lead actors. It serves as a reminder that sometimes the most profound experiences come from the unlikeliest of sources.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
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Australia (AU):
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Brazil (BR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
Directed by Colin Trevorrow, "Safety Not Guaranteed" featured a talented cast, including Aubrey Plaza, Mark Duplass, Jake Johnson, and Karan Soni. The screenplay was written by Derek Connolly, who worked closely with the director to create a story that beautifully balanced science fiction elements with heartfelt human drama.
Filming locations included various spots in and around Washington state, lending an authentic and picturesque backdrop to the story's exploration of ordinary lives and extraordinary possibilities. The production, despite its modest budget of around $750,000, was praised for its creative approach to storytelling.
At the box office, "Safety Not Guaranteed" performed well, earning over $4 million worldwide, making it a successful indie venture.
Reception and Awards:
Critical Reception: The film received critical acclaim for its originality, writing, and performances, with particular praise directed at Aubrey Plaza and Mark Duplass. Critics found its blend of science fiction and romance refreshing, making it a standout in the indie film landscape.
Audience Reception: Audiences connected with the film's heartfelt storytelling and exploration of human connection. "Safety Not Guaranteed" became a favorite among those who appreciate unconventional romances and thought-provoking narratives.
Awards and Nominations: While not a major awards contender, "Safety Not Guaranteed" received recognition for its screenplay and performances in various film festivals and award ceremonies, further cementing its status as a unique and endearing film.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- The film was inspired by a real classified ad that appeared in a magazine, which read almost identically to the one featured in the movie.
- Mark Duplass, who played Kenneth, was also involved in the film's production, further adding to its indie sensibilities.
- Aubrey Plaza's portrayal of Darius was widely praised and showcased her ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles.
In conclusion, "Safety Not Guaranteed" is a delightful indie gem that combines elements of science fiction and romance to explore the human capacity for belief and connection.
If you're in the mood for a film that's equal parts quirky and touching, this cinematic journey into the realm of time travel and human relationships is a must-watch, making it a beloved and enduring entry in the indie film landscape.