What would you go back for?
In the intriguing film "Safety Not Guaranteed," audiences are introduced to a unique premise that deftly blends elements of comedy and science fiction. The story follows three magazine employees who embark on an unconventional assignment driven by curiosity and a desire for an engaging feature. Their objective is to interview a mysterious man named Kenneth Calloway, portrayed by Mark Duplass, who has placed a classified ad in search of a companion for a daring adventure: time travel. This unusual quest not only serves as the central plot but also sets the stage for a deeper exploration of personal connections and the essence of courage.
Aubrey Plaza steps into the shoes of Darius Britt, a smart, skeptical intern with a complex inner life. As the team delves deeper into Kenneth's world, Darius becomes increasingly captivated by the prospect of time travel, drawn in by Kenneth's earnestness and charm. The chemistry between Plaza and Duplass is both poignant and humorous, as they navigate their characters' contrasting attitudes towards life and the unknown. The interactions between the trio — consisting of Darius, Kenneth, and the more cynical members of the magazine crew — highlight the tensions that arise when skepticism clashes with the yearning for adventure and the pursuit of something extraordinary.
Through its insightful character development and a whimsical yet thought-provoking narrative, "Safety Not Guaranteed" examines themes of hope, regret, and the lengths one might go to escape reality. As Darius and Kenneth's relationship deepens, they both confront their fears and personal issues, revealing layers of vulnerability and authenticity. The film ultimately asks audiences to consider the value of human connection and the possibility of taking bold risks, even in the face of uncertainty. With its clever blend of humor and heartfelt moments, "Safety Not Guaranteed" offers a compelling take on the concept of adventure, making it a memorable journey worth taking.
Full Cast of Safety Not Guaranteed
Aubrey Plaza
as Darius Britt
Aubrey Plaza delivers a nuanced and captivating performance as Darius Britt in the indie comedy-drama "Safety Not Guaranteed." As a disillusioned and sardonic intern at a Seattle magazine, Plaza's Darius is initially detached and apathetic, but her character's intrigue is piqued when she is assigned to investigate a mysterious classified ad seeking a companion for time travel. Plaza's portrayal is a delicate balance of deadpan wit and vulnerability; she brings depth to Darius, who slowly sheds her protective layers as she gets drawn into the eccentric world of Kenneth, the ad's author, played by Mark Duplass. As the narrative progresses, Plaza's performance evolves, revealing Darius's longing for connection and her willingness to embrace the absurdity of life, which is both endearing and poignant. Her chemistry with Duplass is palpable, and it's through this unique relationship that Darius finds a sense of hope and the courage to confront her past and the possibilities of the future. Plaza's ability to navigate the film's tonal shifts from humor to heartfelt emotion cements her as a standout in this offbeat and heartwarming tale of adventure and self-discovery.
Mark Duplass
as Kenneth Calloway
Mark Duplass delivers a nuanced and captivating performance as the enigmatic Kenneth Calloway in the indie film "Safety Not Guaranteed." His portrayal of a man who claims to have built a time machine is a delicate balance of eccentricity and sincerity, as he navigates the complexities of his character's perceived realities. Duplass imbues Kenneth with a palpable earnestness that renders him both endearing and mysterious, drawing the audience into his world of time-travel aspirations. His interactions with the other characters, particularly Aubrey Plaza's Darius, are tinged with an awkward charm that hints at a deeper vulnerability. Duplass's ability to convey the heartache of a man possibly living in the past while seeking a future redemption adds a layer of poignancy to the film. His performance is a testament to his versatility as an actor, as he effortlessly anchors the film's blend of humor, drama, and science fiction, leaving a lasting impression that resonates long after the credits roll.
Jake Johnson
as Jeff Schwensen
Jake Johnson delivered a memorable performance as Jeff Schwensen in the indie film "Safety Not Guaranteed," a character that perfectly encapsulates his ability to blend comedic timing with a relatable sense of vulnerability. Jeff, a magazine editor, is initially presented as a cynical and somewhat immature character, using the assignment to investigate a peculiar classified ad as an excuse for a free trip and a chance to reconnect with an old flame. Johnson infuses Jeff with an undercurrent of charm and a surprising depth, transforming him from a mere comic relief into a poignant counterpart to the film's protagonist. His interactions with Aubrey Plaza's character reveal a man grappling with the disillusionment of adulthood, and Johnson's nuanced portrayal captures the subtle yearning for purpose and connection that drives Jeff to confront his own past and regrets. The balance Johnson strikes between humor and pathos is key to the film's heartfelt exploration of time, relationships, and the courage to pursue the extraordinary. His performance is a testament to his range as an actor, offering audiences a character that is both entertaining and deeply human.
Karan Soni delivers a standout performance as Arnau in the quirky and heartfelt indie film "Safety Not Guaranteed." As the introverted and deadpan intern, Soni crafts a character that is both humorous and endearing, bringing a subtle complexity to the role. Arnau's journey from a shy, rule-abiding individual to a more open and adventurous person is portrayed with a delicate balance of nuance and authenticity by Soni. His interactions with Aubrey Plaza's character, Darius, are particularly compelling, as he embodies the awkwardness and growth of someone stepping out of their comfort zone for the first time. Soni's portrayal of Arnau is a testament to his range as an actor, as he seamlessly transitions from delivering dry one-liners to showcasing the character's deeper emotional layers. His performance is a key element in the film's exploration of friendship, time travel, and the courage to embrace life's uncertainties, making Arnau a memorable and beloved character among fans of the film.
Jenica Bergere
as Liz McHollis
Jenica Bergere delivers a noteworthy performance as Liz McHollis in the indie film "Safety Not Guaranteed," a character that serves as a poignant counterbalance to the main narrative. As the quirky and somewhat aimless Liz, Bergere brings a vibrant energy to the screen, portraying a woman who is both endearing and flawed. Her character is grappling with the complexities of adulthood, caught between the desire for stability and a longing for the carefree days of her youth. Bergere's portrayal is marked by an authenticity that makes Liz's struggles relatable; she embodies the role with a natural charisma that allows the audience to empathize with her search for purpose. Her interactions with the protagonist, played by Aubrey Plaza, are particularly compelling, as she navigates the blurred lines between mentorship and friendship, ultimately contributing to the film's underlying theme of personal growth and the significance of human connection. Bergere's performance is a testament to her ability to flesh out a supporting role, making Liz McHollis a memorable and multifaceted character within the charming tapestry of "Safety Not Guaranteed."
Kristen Bell delivered a nuanced performance as Belinda in the quirky indie film "Safety Not Guaranteed," seamlessly blending her character's tough-minded journalistic ambition with a tender vulnerability that unfolds throughout the narrative. Belinda, initially presented as a cynical and somewhat jaded intern at a Seattle magazine, is tasked with investigating a peculiar classified ad seeking a companion for time travel. Bell's portrayal captures the skepticism of a young professional trying to prove herself in a competitive industry, while also conveying the subtle shifts in Belinda's worldview as she becomes emotionally entangled with the story's central figure, played by Mark Duplass. Her performance is a delicate dance between maintaining professional boundaries and succumbing to the enchanting possibility of the extraordinary, showcasing Bell's range as an actor capable of embodying both strength and sensitivity with equal finesse. Bell's Belinda is the heart of the film, embodying the audience's own journey from doubt to belief, and her chemistry with Duplass is both genuine and captivating, making their shared scenes the emotional core of this offbeat romantic comedy.
Jeffrey "Jeff" Garlin (born June 5, 1962) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, producer, voice artist, director, ...
William Hall Jr.
as Shannon
Tom Ricciardelli
as Security Guard
Eli Borozan
as Kid in Diner
Alice Hung
as Shift Manager
Crew of Safety Not Guaranteed
Discover the
backstage crew of Safety Not Guaranteed →