Frequently Asked Questions About Time Travel (HBO)

About Frequently Asked Questions About Time Travel (HBO)

The movie "Frequently Asked Questions About Time Travel" is a quirky and humorous science fiction produced for HBO in 2010. The plot revolves around three social misfits - two 'geeky' friends and a cynical man - who, while having a conversation in a pub, accidentally experience disturbances in the space-time continuum. As they venture through time, they experience thrilling, dangerous and humorous moments.

Making / Production

The movie is directed by Gareth Carrivick in his feature film directorial debut. The script is written by Jamie Mathieson. The production brilliantly balances elements of comedy and science fiction, making it appealing to not just fans of the sci-fi genre, but also those who enjoy a hearty laugh.

Actors

• Chris O'Dowd as Ray - Ray is a science fiction enthusiast who is skeptic yet thrilled about their time travel encounters. O'Dowd brings in a good mix of comic timing and vulnerability to his character.
• Marc Wootton as Toby - Toby is Ray's geeky friend who is initially sceptical about the time travel incidents. Wootton portrays the character's transition from sceptic to believer convincingly.
• Dean Lennox Kelly as Pete - Pete is the cynical friend who inadvertently initiates the time-travelling events. Kelly's excellent performance adds depth to his character.
• Anna Faris as Cassie - Cassie is a time traveler, who interacts with the trio and assists them. Faris shines in her role, encapsulating the enigmatic and mystical aura of her character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was initially developed as a sitcom before evolving into a full-length film.
• Despite the heavy use of science fiction tropes, the script was lauded for keeping the narratives simple and relatable for the audience.
• The time machine in the movie is a simple two-door restroom, creating a nod to the simplicity of time machines in old-time classic sci-fi novels and films.

Quotes

• "Time travel's hard to get your head around." - Ray
• "This is the most exciting pub I've ever been in." - Toby
• "You keep expecting spacemen." - Pete
• "The future of the entire planet may depend on you." - Cassie

Music, Soundtrack

• The movie makes use of a diverse range of music, from intense, futuristic sounds to blend with the sci-fi theme, to lighter and more upbeat music for the comic parts.
• String instruments are majorly used to create a sense of suspense during the twists and turns of the plot.
• The whiplash sound effect holds a significant place throughout the movie, providing a unique auditory signature to the time travel events.

Awards

The film did not win any major film awards, but it was well-received by critics for its unique blend of sci-fi and comedy, alongside its fresh narrative approach.