‘We Live in Time’ Movie Review: Powerhouse Performances Anchor A Disjointed Romantic Comedy Pulled Out Of Yesteryear
Photo from A24
From Joe Peltzer
There is a comfort that comes from a film such as We Live in Time… one of those slice-of-life entries that features fantastic performances from leads Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, while driving daggers to the heart. Though not a complete home run, John Crowley’s film hits many of the right notes balancing heart, compassion, and humor. It’s a surefire crowdpleaser that leaves you wanting to watch more films with these two talented actors playing off of one another. It also features one of the wildest birth scenes I’ve ever seen on film.
Told in a nonlinear format that doesn’t always work, We Live in Time follows Almut (Pugh) and Tobias (Garfield), recounting their chance encounter that led to a beautiful family and also life challenges that threaten to cut their time together short. Right from the start, it’s clear that both Pugh and Garfield have incredible chemistry, a vital ingredient that hasn’t been seen in a similar film in quite some time. It’s a testament to the range that both actors have and continue to display through creative role choices, as well as trust in the filmmaker. Not only is their relationship and everything that comes with it believable, it’s charming and enticing.
Pugh’s character calls for a strength that is not unlike what we have seen from her in other roles, but it’s channeled here through focus towards participation in a worldwide cooking competition (she’s a chef). Tobias has no idea this is happening, instead trusting that his wife is putting all of her focus in getting better. After all, the couple has a young daughter together. The chef angle didn’t really work for me, because there wasn’t enough to establish the “why” of Almut’s insistence as to her participation. I can certainly respect the film’s exploration of fulfillment and feeling as though we have accomplished something to be remembered by in life, but the direction taken here in the story (penned by writer Nick Payne) seems at odds with the nontraditional trajectory and comfort with said trajectory that the couple has. For purposes of the ultimate climax and resolution, sure, it works for the movie, but it simply felt underwhelming compared to what could have been. All of the emotional undertones are palpable throughout, with Garfield wearing his heart on his sleeve in almost every scene that it’s hard not to find yourself teary-eyed in multiple instances . I just truly felt what I believe is an unintended way about Almut, not because she had the strength to follow her own passions and dreams, but for what she was giving up in the time that she was spending in preparation for the competition in the face of the diagnosis received.
I also go back-and-forth as to whether or not the non-linear structure worked for this film. Early on there are times where the audience may question where in time we are and what the actual part of the story on screen is. Typically when using such a structure, these scenes are positioned in a way that the past informs the future; that wasn’t quite the case here. But from beginning to end, the cinematography is properly intrusive to the relationship’s ups and downs while accompanied by a pleasing soundtrack that never fails to meet the moment. Also, as mentioned, there is a scene that is so funny (while also so unhinged and perhaps a bit unbelievable) that nevertheless stands out due to the full commitment of everyone involved.
Overall, We Live in Time is a well-made romantic comedy that is elevated by the stars in the lead. Without their ability to balance all of the emotions and tones necessary, I’m not sure that this film would work as well as it does. The negative aspects mentioned above aside, We Live in Time is a welcomed addition to the romantic comedy/drama genre and a relatable watch, I’m sure, for many.
Rating: 3.5/5
We Live in time hits theaters on Friday.
