Time travel has long fascinated both filmmakers and audiences alike, blurring the lines between reality and the fantastical. The upcoming comedy fantasy, “Time Travel Is Dangerous,” set to premier at the esteemed 31st Austin Film Festival on October 26, offers a fresh take on the genre. The excitement surrounding this film is palpable, particularly with the exclusive reveal of its intriguing first-look poster and teaser trailer.
At the heart of this delightful narrative are Ruth Syratt and Megan Stevenson, portrayed as best friends who share a passion for vintage treasures. Their quaint bric-a-brac shop in Muswell Hill, London, becomes the backdrop for an extraordinary adventure when they inadvertently discover a time machine. This unique plot premise sets the stage for a series of escapades through different eras as the duo seeks to enrich their emporium with quirky artifacts. However, what begins as harmless exploration quickly spirals into unforeseen chaos as their meddling begins to unravel the very fabric of the universe.
The film does not shy away from exploring the consequences of time travel, ultimately crafting a narrative that melds comedy with existential stakes. After pushing their luck a bit too far, Ruth and Megan find themselves confronting an apocalyptic rift that poses grave consequences. This twist introduces a rich, darker fantasy element as Ruth embarks on a rescue mission to save her friend from “The Unreason,” an eerie parallel world governed by a convoluted game that stands as a metaphysical test of endurance.
Renowned for their dynamic storytelling, the film is directed by Chris Reading and is co-written and produced by the creative duo known as the Shakespeare Sisters. The talent assembled for “Time Travel Is Dangerous” further elevates its potential, featuring a stellar cast that includes Johnny Vegas, Sophie Thompson, Jane Horrocks, Mark Heap, Tom Lenk, and Tony Way. With Stephen Fry delivering the narration, audiences can expect wit and charm woven throughout the script. The film is in official competition for the Comedy Vanguard Feature section, underscoring its comedic merit alongside hearts and thrills.
Following its premiere in Austin, the film is set to continue its journey with both a European Premiere at the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival and a UK Premiere at FrightFest: Halloween. The excitement is not merely about the locations; it’s an acknowledgment of the film’s ability to resonate with diverse audiences and highlight the universality of humor and the human experience. As Chris Reading mentions, “We are delighted to premiere our mildly amusing film at Austin Film Festival, a city known for its comedy scene,” the anticipation for a blend of laughter and fantastical storytelling is contagious.
“Time Travel Is Dangerous” promises to offer more than just laughter; it delves into intriguing moral questions surrounding time travel, friendship, and the unforeseen consequences of our actions. With its unique premise, rich character development, and impressive cast, audiences are in for a memorable journey that explores not just the past, but the very essence of existence itself. As the festival dates approach, excitement builds around what could easily become a beloved film in the comedy fantasy genre.