In the words of one X-user, We Live in Time (2024), “will emotionally destroy you, while leaving your heart open for love.”
A24’s latest film brings together Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield in this dramatic romance designed to break your heart while the actors treat the audience to very real-feeling characters.
The movie follows two people brought together unexpectedly when Garfield’s character Tobias is hit by Almut’s (Pugh’s) car. The two are funny, genuine, and share fantastic chemistry. When Almut is diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the couple discusses what they want their future to look like, a conversation that people have every single day.
What makes the movie work is that when both characters are swept off their feet by the other, it feels tangible — this feels like two people who you could know yourself, not a cheesy or cliché couple that could have brought the movie down. That’s not to mention that Pugh and Garfield stun in this movie, making the audience wonder which actor they’re more envious of.
Beyond the acting, time plays into the storytelling of Nick Payne’s script. It is a non-linearly told story over the course of a decade. Instead of telling the audience what these characters’ pasts are, director John Crowley shows us the history that builds where We Live in Time goes.
Though not all reviewers felt particularly positive about the movie, pointing out vaguely implied progressive ideals that actually veil traditionalism, there is something to be said about the gender-bent view of Almut versus Tobias’ careers and Almut’s nontraditional attitude toward family life. It doesn’t overcome all of traditionalism and it isn’t perfect, but the movie beautifully explores choosing to live life fully and for yourself.
Many on social media agree with this as well (though some of these posts include light spoilers):
#WeLiveInTime masterfully captures the profound beauty of human connection, urging us to pause, embrace the present, and navigate the intricate tapestry of emotions that define our lives, all brought to life through the exceptional chemistry of Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. pic.twitter.com/mS1ztRUpBp
— Movie Files (@MovieFilesLive) October 18, 2024
Some praised Garfield’s performance as well:
We Live in Time will probably leave you in tears, but the heartbreak is cathartic because the movie is so beautiful. If reviews have left you on the fence about seeing the film, take it from us — it’s worth watching, even if just to bask in Garfield and Pugh’s chemistry.
Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield share incredible chemistry
Plays with time (if you're into that)
Tragically sad
Plays with time (if you're not into that)
Perpetuates some traditional gender roles
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