We Live In Time Review: Andrew Garfield & Florence Pugh’s Achingly Beautiful Romance

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As a seasoned gamer and movie enthusiast with over two decades of viewing experiences under my belt, I must say that “We Live in Time” is a cinematic journey that truly resonated with me. Having lost a few loved ones to illnesses myself, the opening scene struck a chord that tugged at my heartstrings. However, it was the charming performances of Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield that really stole the show.

In this timeless romantic comedy-drama titled “We Live in Time“, the lead roles are taken by Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. The narrative unfolds unconventionally as it delves into the decades-long love story between Thomas (Garfield) and Almut (Pugh). The film starts with Almut’s cancer diagnosis, and then takes us through various significant moments in their lives, offering glimpses into their characters and how they evolved into who they are. Directed by John Crowley, known for movies such as “Brooklyn” and “The Goldfinch“, this movie presents a moving story that resonates with the authenticity of real life, while also incorporating the perfect dose of absurdity and poignant, sincere performances.

Right from the outset, it’s clear that We Live in Time is going to pull at your heartstrings. Any movie about family members facing illnesses can be devastating, and starting off with a scene that rips your heart out might seem risky, but it works because it resonates with anyone who has experienced loss. The film portrays the initial shock and the difficult choices that follow, before moving on to their chance encounter and delving into moments where they become irreplaceable in each other’s lives.

The film’s narrative closely follows the style of the screenplay for “500 Days of Summer,” a romantic comedy that initially portrays a couple’s separation before delving into a non-chronological sequence of significant events in their relationship. While both movies differ significantly, as the former adopted a more humorous approach and skillfully used its nonlinear structure for both humor and unexpected sadness. In contrast, the nonlinear narrative of “We Live in Time” seems less purposeful, with frequent jumps between various time periods without the transitions appearing too deliberate or precise.

“But We Live in Time shines mainly because of the captivating performances by its lead actors, Garfield and Pugh. Both are highly renowned performers, and it’s delightful to witness them together, making use of their British accents. Their on-screen chemistry is exceptional and convincing, lending a genuine touch to their portrayed romance. Even in scenes that seem improbable, such as childbirth in an unconventional setting, the movie manages to captivate and effectively convey a romantic story that strikes all the right chords.

In this movie, the initial encounter between the characters is quite endearing and stands out, while subtle elements run throughout that showcase their connection. As dialogue unfolds, we perceive both their shared traits and contrasts. We witness numerous aspects that might drive them apart, yet they opt to fall in love and remain together. Just like real-life relationships, the characters are portrayed with many realistic flaws and virtues, and the script by Nick Payne skillfully invites us to share in their mistakes as well as their successes. Tobias and Almut’s journey feels authentic.

Pugh and Garfield are remarkably skilled actors. They don’t just convey emotion through their dialogue, but also in moments of silence. The most gifted performers can reveal a whole universe of subtlety with nothing but a facial expression. Not only do Pugh and Garfield make us believe it, they make us feel the pain that we can hardly stand to watch them endure.

In “Because We Live in Time,” a pair faces separation due to cancer, evoking a sense of familiarity for fans of films such as “A Walk to Remember.” This movie centers around a couple cherishing their time together, knowing time is slipping away. Almut, portrayed as a deeply saddening character, yearns to achieve something meaningful before her demise, despite her errors. Her plight stirs empathy, and ultimately, she emerges as an individual with depth and humanity.

This movie is exquisitely emotional, brimming with heartfelt moments. It offers a blend of joy and tears as it delves into the breathtaking heights of love, showcasing its euphoric side while also highlighting the pain that comes when someone you care deeply for experiences a devastating event. A particularly touching scene in “We Live in Time” revolves around trying to conceive. It’s both humorous and endearing, making it one of the film’s most memorable moments. Despite occasionally feeling like a 107-minute montage, it’s a heartwarming series of events that you won’t tire of revisiting.

SCORE: 8/10

According to ComingSoon’s review guidelines, a score of 8 signifies “Great.” Although it has some minor flaws, this rating indicates that the artwork achieves its objective effectively and leaves a lasting impression.

Disclosure: ComingSoon attended a press screening for our We Live in Time review.

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2024-10-11 00:40