Safety Not Guaranteed

The 2012 film Safety Not Guaranteed is a unique fusion of comedy, drama, mystery, and romance, offering both thought-provoking and heartrending moments. Directed by Colin Trevorrow, the movie stars Aubrey Plaza, Mark Duplass, and Jake Johnson, who deliver stellar performances that thoroughly engage audiences.

The premise of Safety Not Guaranteed is genuinely intriguing and novel. It stems from a peculiar classified ad: “Wanted: Somebody to go back in time with me. This is not a joke… Safety not guaranteed.” The story unfolds as a trio of magazine employees - the cynical Darius (Aubrey Plaza), disillusioned Jeff (Jake Johnson) and socially awkward Arnau (Karan Soni) - decide to delve into the story behind this strange advertisement. The ad's cryptic author, Kenneth (Mark Duplass), is a supermarket clerk who sincerely believes he can travel back in time.

Aubrey Plaza’s strong and nuanced performance plays a crucial role in the story. Darius is an unpaid intern, introverted and just as cynical as you’d expect a post-collegiate cynic to be. Despite her sarcastic exterior, Plaza imbues vulnerability and warmth to Darius, making her relatable. We watch as Darius faces the realities of adulthood, a need for companionship, and a longing for the simpler times of the past.

Mark Duplass also delivers an outstanding performance as the mysterious and eccentric Kenneth, a character full of fascinating contradictions that Duplass manages to make believable. Kenneth is wacky and strange, yet passionate and earnest, sealing the audience’s engagement in his mission. The chemistry between Plaza and Duplass is compelling and fuels audience excitement.

Jake Johnson portrays Jeff, a magazine writer disillusioned with life and work. He initially sees the assignment as a chance to reconnect with an old flame and to enjoy a break from his mundane daily routine. However, the journey turns into a voyage of self-discovery. The subplot involving Jeff adds a realistic texture to the narrative, suggesting that everyone is internally struggling with something and makes the audience reflect on their own missed opportunities and past relationships.

These characters are caught up in a quirky yet profound narrative, which elegantly combines the familiar beats of a character-driven indie comedy with elements of fantasy. Much of the film is grounded in reality, focusing on the painful process through which the protagonists move forward in life, the relationships they form, and their inner transformation.

Safety Not Guaranteed is also visually pleasing, adding romantic rural backgrounds to its many charms. The cinematography is subtle yet effective, and the atmospheric indie music soundtrack is skillfully used to enhance the film’s mood.

Interestingly, the film never takes itself too seriously or becomes slapstick. It maintains an intriguing balance between authentic human struggle and light-hearted humor. The screenplay, penned by Derek Connolly, is refreshingly original and offers up a series of delightful surprises that are best left unspoiled.

On an emotional level, Safety Not Guaranteed raises questions about regrets, second chances, and the concept of changing one’s past. It reassures that it’s okay to fail, to fear, to dream, and most importantly, to hope. It manages to convey deep and often complex emotions, disguising them beneath the film's quirky, humorous exterior, thereby effectively resonating with the audience. Ultimately, the film's beauty lies in its script's subtlety and the characters' candor, navigating the spaces between comedy and tragedy, reality and fantasy.

In conclusion, Safety Not Guaranteed is an indie gem that treats its unusual premise with dignity and respect, creating a heartwarming and entertaining blend. Powered by a strong ensemble cast, a smart and fresh screenplay, and the careful direction of Colin Trevorrow, the film appeals to a broad spectrum of viewers. It successively illustrates the complex human conditions and delivers a potent combo of genuine laughs, compelling mysteries, and unforgettable love stories that stick with you long after the credits roll. If you're a fan of uniquely engaging cinema, this film's combination of indie charm, humor, and thought-provoking themes makes it well worth a watch.