Review of Safety Not Guaranteed (2012) by Zach M — 08 Mar 2013

Safety Not Guaranteed was released on June 8, 2012 as the directorial debut of Colin Trevorrow. Written by Derek Connolly, the film is inspired by an ad in a 1997 Backwoods Home Magazine-written as a joke-by a person asking for some one to accompany them in time travel.

Something happens when watching Safety Not Guaranteed. I'm not sure if it's the excellent colors, dynamic cast catered with phenomenal performances, or simply the captivating premise and well written script; but upon finishing this movie it is clear that something special had occurred.

The film is about a magazine editor and two interns seeking out an ad in the paper from a guy calling for a partner to time travel with.

Each character introduced in the film has a strong arc as well as fulfilling resolutions to their climaxes.

The performance from Mark Duplass, playing Kenneth, was so refreshing to see in a movie that at its roots is a romantic comedy. Duplass' portrayal of a misunderstood man is so likeable because of how honest he is. Kenneth isn't the shallow attractive guy that we've all become familiar with in these kinds of movies, and his persona is one that we can actually appreciate. He feels like a real person with real levels of sensitivity; he wasn't overly dramatic because the script called for it, but because he's a romantic.

Duplass complemented Aubrey Plaza well, playing the main protagonist, Darius. What I feel made this relationship work was Darius. She didn't date much because she had always been mature in juxtaposition to her friends. This insight given in the exposition of the plot established Darius's eye for quality and unwillingness to settle, leaving the whole affair feeling honest and relatable.

Aside from the performances, director Colin Trevorrow, demonstrated a clear vision throughout the film. There was a consistency to the pacing that always kept me engaged.

What inspired happiness was Trevorrow's constant lean towards optimism. Every conflict in the rising action of the film had a hint of optimism in the direction. It left me feeling happy about any situation that happened because of the over arching theme of hope.

The way Safety Not Guaranteed was shot reminded me of other indie films. The camera work was nothing inventive, only to stand out on the occasional filler shot of a character walking to a sunset. What was impressive and unique were the colors that the movie evoked. Much of it was saturated and vibrant in the set. Plus, the costumes added to the overall warm feeling of the movie.

Safety Not Guaranteed made me feel felt like a kid where nothing wrong could happen. And that ending! Oh that sweet ending is such a beautiful finish to a beautiful film. Whatever the time or place, this adventure is a must watch to anyone with a heart.

Written by Zach Morrissey.