We Live In Time Review: A Proper British Weepy With Heart [TIFF 2024]

As a seasoned gamer of romantic dramas, I must say that “We Live in Time” is a delightful addition to the genre. It’s like playing a game of chess with a Richard Curtis script, where each move is filled with heart-wrenching emotions and a dash of nonlinear narrative for added complexity. Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield are an enchanting duo that brings Almut and Tobias to life in such a captivating manner, it’s as if they’ve hacked their way into our hearts.

When it comes to stories that will surely capture an audience, nothing beats heartfelt romantic dramas, such as “We Live in Time.” This film offers a Richard Curtis-style romance, chronicling the journey of a couple navigating life’s ups and downs. What sets this movie apart is its unique narrative style, presented in a nonlinear fashion that creates poignant snapshots from their shared past and future. The stellar performances by Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, who share an undeniable chemistry, significantly contribute to the film’s appeal. However, while the film’s innovative structure and star power are appealing, they may not be sufficient to make “We Live in Time” a must-see movie.

As a gamer, I find myself immersed in a captivating tale where I’m Almut, a dedicated, workaholic chef with a passion for culinary perfection. One fateful day, my world collides with Tobias’, a gentle Weetabix employee who cherishes the idea of a harmonious home life. Our paths cross in an unusual way – I accidentally hit Tobias with my car, leading to an immediate spark (or so it seems once he recovers consciousness in the hospital).

Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh are delightful together

In this type of story, what matters most is having two characters that viewers can become enamored with, and “We Live in Time” delivers just that with Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. Each actor brings a unique charm to the screen, but it’s their exceptional on-screen chemistry that truly sets them apart. Their bond feels authentic and alive, created through a shared acting method where they are fully immersed in the story.

It’s quite an achievement that we easily accept their relationship, given its unconventional presentation in a non-chronological storyline. Initially, viewers might struggle to maintain a clear timeline, but if you’re willing to let go of that structure and simply immerse yourself in the episodic style, the story becomes more impactful. Each scene represents a piece of their shared life, not necessarily in order, and its significance isn’t diminished by this approach. This narrative technique mirrors the broader theme presented in the film through the cancer arc: What kind of life do you desire to live, and what lasting memories do you want to leave for your loved ones when your time comes? Almut’s struggle with whether it’s worth fighting for more painful months with her husband and daughter resonates deeply, even if her decisions can be frustrating. Yet, they ring true to the character she portrays.

The classic tearjerker

Although the non-linear storyline provides all the information about their relationship, it might not provoke the intense emotional response some viewers anticipate, who might bring tissues expecting a tearjerker. Instead, “We Live in Time” delivers smaller, more bittersweet moments rather than a loud emotional peak. However, those seeking an emotional rollercoaster will still find their expectations met, as Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh deliver deeply emotional performances throughout the story’s tragic aspects.

Could it turn into one of the most poignant British films of the decade? That’s doubtful, but with Garfield and Pugh in the lead, this film is a formidable pairing that raises “We Live in Time” significantly above a typical romantic drama. Many movies with similar storylines that get produced usually feel just a notch above what we expect from the Hallmark Channel – however, “We Live in Time” delivers a solid cinematic impact fitting for its themes.

The film titled “We Live in Time” made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, and it’s scheduled for a limited screening in U.S. cinemas on October 11, 2024.

Read More

Sorry. No data so far.

2024-09-20 08:29