Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)
This is Colin Trevorrow’s debut film and is an American science fiction romantic comedy-drama written by Derek Connolly. The film stars Aubrey Plaza, Mark Duplass, and Jake Johnson. It follows a magazine journalist who investigates a classified ad seeking a companion for time travel and finds himself drawn to the person who placed the ad. The film explores themes of regret, loss, and the nature of time itself.
The film was critically acclaimed for its unconventional blend of genres and its heartfelt performances, particularly by Aubrey Plaza in the lead role. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, and went on to receive multiple other awards and nominations. The film also marked Trevorrow’s feature film directorial debut and cemented his reputation as a rising talent in the film industry. The film’s mix of science fiction and romance has made it a cult classic and a favorite among indie film fans.
Jurassic World (2015)
Trevorrow’s big break came with this fourth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise, which takes place 22 years after the events of the original film. The story follows two brothers as they visit the newly opened Jurassic World theme park, which quickly spirals out of control when a genetically modified dinosaur escapes and wreaks havoc.
Jurassic World was generally well-received by critics, who praised Colin Trevorrow’s direction and his ability to balance nostalgia with new ideas. Many critics felt that the film did an excellent job of capturing the spirit of the original Jurassic Park while also updating it for modern audiences. The film was also praised for its special effects and action sequences, which were seen as thrilling and visually stunning.
Overall, while Jurassic World was not without its flaws, most critics felt that Colin Trevorrow had successfully revived the Jurassic Park franchise and created an exciting and entertaining film that both honored the original and moved it forward into new territory.
The Book of Henry (2017)
The film centers around a single mother, Susan Carpenter (played by Naomi Watts), and her two sons, Henry (played by Jaeden Lieberher) and Peter (played by Jacob Tremblay). Henry, a precocious 11-year-old, is the family’s moral compass and has a plan to save the girl next door from her abusive stepfather. When Henry becomes terminally ill, Susan is left to carry out his plan with the help of her other son, Peter. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the performances of the cast but criticizing the film’s uneven tone and unrealistic plot. Despite the mixed reception, Trevorrow was praised for his ability to direct a film that was different from his previous works, showcasing his versatility as a director.
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018)
Trevorrow co-wrote and produced this sequel to Jurassic World, which picks up three years after the events of the previous film. The story follows Owen and Claire as they return to Isla Nublar to rescue the remaining dinosaurs from a volcanic eruption, only to discover a sinister plot involving the creation of hybrid dinosaurs.
Battle at Big Rock (2019)
This short film serves as a bridge between Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and the upcoming Jurassic World: Dominion. The story follows a family on a camping trip as they encounter a group of dinosaurs in the wild, setting up the events of the next film.
Jurassic World: Dominion (2022)
Trevorrow returns to direct the third and final film in the Jurassic World trilogy, which brings together characters from both the original Jurassic Park and the new films. The plot details have been kept under wraps, but the film is expected to explore the consequences of bringing dinosaurs back to life and the ethical implications of genetic engineering.
Colin Trevorrow is clearly a well-seasoned filmmaker, one destined to take on the challenge of Atlantis! Which of these movies have you seen?