As a movie enthusiast with over three decades of experiencing various genres and storytelling techniques, I must say that “We Live In Time” is nothing short of a cinematic marvel. From the very first frame, it captivates you with its unique narrative structure and the outstanding performances of Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, who have become two of my favorite actors in recent years.
It’s clear that a film featuring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield is likely to be successful, given their exceptional talent demonstrated in recent years. They are among the most skilled young actors today, capable of bringing depth and charm to any genre they tackle, whether it’s a dramatic production or a big-budget superhero movie. Their presence on screen alone can bring a sense of warmth and delight.
Without a doubt, it’s no surprise to see the stars shining brightly in harmony in director John Crowley’s film, We Live In Time, which had its world debut tonight at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. While the performances of its leading actors are undeniably impressive, what truly sets this movie apart is the masterful execution of Nick Payne’s exceptional script. This script not only employs a challenging non-linear narrative but also seamlessly transitions between various tones, leaving you laughing one moment and on the brink of tears the next.
The film titled “We Live In Time” narrates the tale of Almut (portrayed by Florence Pugh) and Tobias (Andrew Garfield), chronicling their lives through various years with a narrative that jumps between different time periods. Their bond is tested severely when Almut is diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer, leaving them to navigate their future and that of their young daughter. This poignant drama unfolds, showing the evolution of their personalities as a couple – from their initial encounter following a tragic car accident, through disagreements about starting a family, their first family meal together, and other significant moments in their relationship.
The film, titled “We Live In Time“, would probably be recognized as a capable romantic drama, boosted by exceptional performances from its leads. However, it’s the complex structure that truly sets this movie apart and is mesmerizing to observe. As the story unfolds, hints are subtly dropped in each scene, helping the audience piece together the sequence of events, though the narrative never explicitly tells you anything. This results in a seamless flow between scenes, making even abrupt transitions feel natural and immersive within the storyline. The director John Crowley, screenwriter Nick Payne, and editor Justine Wright all deserve praise for their contributions to this intricate puzzle.
The film can shift from Almut, a chef, considering competing in an elite cooking competition post-diagnosis to Tobias getting a haircut from his father (Douglas Hodge) before he goes to his future’s significant other’s restaurant for the first time, and its never jagged or throttling. Instead, there’s a mini thrill that you get akin to finding the piece you’re looking for while putting together a jigsaw puzzle, and before long, you register the bigger picture.
Simultaneously flowing with the ever-changing plot is the consistently changing mood of the narrative, making “We Live In Time” capable of tugging at heartstrings one moment and provoking laughter the next (often it even mixes these feelings, such as a conversation between Almut and Tobias about obtaining a pet to help their daughter understand loss – a topic that raises questions about whether they are getting the pet with the intention to harm it). This work showcases an authentic portrayal of life and relationships that adds depth to the characters and intensifies our emotional connection to the story. You’ll find yourself laughing as the main characters grapple with a truly harrowing childbirth experience, but the pain is even more profound when the couple later have a devastating argument about a heart-wrenching secret.
Regarding the distribution of focus, the movie leans more towards Florence Pugh than Andrew Garfield, noticeably during the second half, but both actors deliver exceptional performances in their roles. The chemistry between them is remarkable, making it hard not to root for their fictional romance (although the complex narrative structure removes any suspense regarding their eventual outcome). Both actors’ talents are put to the test, and they excel individually in portraying their characters. It’s challenging to choose a favorite because both Almut and Tobias have convincing arguments based on their unique experiences, and they both convey depth and weight in their dialogue. Overall, they create a captivating blend of joy and sorrow.
Previously scheduled for release on October 11, the premiere of We Live In Time at the Toronto International Film Festival is undeniably an integral part of a strategy to generate early buzz ahead of the awards season, which has indeed proven effective. The film boasts significant star power and delivers on this promise with compelling storytelling and cinematography, ultimately offering a fulfilling and romantic cinematic journey.
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2024-09-07 08:37