I watched We Live in Time and I liked it. 3.5/5
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We Live in Time is a tender and evocative exploration of love, loss, and the quiet moments that shape a life. Anchored by standout performances from Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, the film uses its nonlinear narrative to highlight the fleeting and fragmented nature of memory. While not every creative choice lands, this romantic comedy-drama resonates with emotional truth and delivers a poignant, if sometimes uneven, cinematic experience.
The story unfolds over a decade, charting the relationship between Tobias (Garfield), a Weetabix representative in the throes of a divorce, and Almut (Pugh), a former figure skater turned chef. Their romance begins with a chance encounter and deepens through love, conflict, illness, and ambition. The nonlinear structure jumps across key moments in their relationship, weaving joy, heartbreak, and quiet reflection into a patchwork of memory.
Florence Pugh’s portrayal of Almut is both fierce and vulnerable, capturing a woman grappling with ambition, illness, and the emotional weight of her choices. Pugh’s performance is magnetic, especially as she navigates Almut’s complex decisions about motherhood, her career, and her battle with cancer. Garfield, meanwhile, brings warmth and earnestness to Tobias, offering a counterbalance to Almut’s guarded intensity. His portrayal of a man learning to navigate love and loss is deeply affecting, particularly in quieter moments where his emotions are left unspoken but keenly felt.
The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, grounding the film’s more experimental structure. Their dynamic is tender and authentic, making their ups and downs feel personal and relatable. While the nonlinear storytelling can occasionally feel disjointed, it effectively mirrors the way memories surface—unpredictable, vivid, and often tied to emotion rather than chronology.
Director John Crowley and screenwriter Nick Payne deserve credit for the film’s ambition, even if it doesn’t always stick the landing. The nonlinear narrative, while thematically fitting, may alienate viewers who prefer a more straightforward approach. Certain time jumps feel abrupt, and the pacing occasionally stumbles as a result. However, for those willing to engage with the fragmented structure, the film offers a rewarding emotional arc.
Visually, We Live in Time is understated but beautiful. The cinematography captures both the intimacy of quiet domestic moments and the grandeur of milestones like Almut’s participation in the Bocuse d’Or competition. The contrasting settings—from bustling kitchens to serene countryside—serve as a backdrop to the couple’s evolving relationship, emphasizing both the comfort and chaos of their lives together. Bryce Dessner’s score enhances the film’s emotional depth, while the credits song, “I’m on Your Team” by Romy and Sampha, leaves a lasting impression.
However, the film isn’t without its shortcomings. The nonlinear structure, while emotionally resonant, occasionally veers into the arbitrary, with some scenes feeling misplaced or underdeveloped. The supporting characters, though capably performed, lack depth, serving more as narrative devices than fully realized individuals. Additionally, some of Almut’s decisions—particularly regarding her illness and career—may feel implausible to some viewers, undermining the realism the film otherwise strives for.
Despite these flaws, We Live in Time succeeds as a deeply emotional and meditative film. Its willingness to tackle heavy themes like mortality, ambition, and the sacrifices of love gives it a weight that lingers long after the credits roll. Garfield and Pugh’s performances elevate the material, turning what could have been a standard romantic drama into something more poignant and introspective.
For fans of character-driven stories that embrace emotional complexity, We Live in Time offers a bittersweet and rewarding experience. While its structure and pacing may divide audiences, its heartfelt exploration of love and memory ensures it leaves an impression.