Film Review - We Live in Time
Images courtesy of STUDIOCANAL.
We Live In Time is a contemplative and slow-burning exploration of love, time, grief, and the human condition. Its deliberate pacing and poignant moments invite viewers to reflect on how we perceive and utilise time in our lives, challenging us to consider whether we truly make the most of it.
Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield deliver magnetic performances as Almut and Tobias. Their palpable on-screen chemistry infuses authenticity into the non-linear narrative, effectively capturing the evolution of their relationship and their respective identities. The film’s structure, with its temporal shifts, enhances the storytelling by highlighting pivotal milestones and challenges that form the foundations of their lives.
The depiction of Almut's struggle with illness is both deeply moving and grounded in realism. Moments where she confronts the loss of her ability to enjoy simple pleasures, such as cooking, are especially poignant. Garfield's portrayal of Tobias balances humour and heartache, portraying a man unwavering in his support yet grappling with his own emotional struggles.
However, some aspects of the narrative felt underdeveloped, with certain storylines introduced but left unexplored. For example, the death of Almut's father, Tobias’s divorce, and even the revelation that this was Almut’s second bout with cancer are treated more as plot devices than meaningful elements that enrich our protagonists’ development. Similarly, the non-linear structure, while effective in some respects, occasionally creates a sense of detachment that might leave viewers yearning for deeper emotional resonance. The film misses opportunities to dive further into the couple's conversations about mortality, the possibility of Almut’s passing, and their shared fears of the unknown and the future of their family.
Despite these critiques, the film offers moments of profound authenticity. One of its most powerful scenes is Almut’s heartfelt admission of her fear of being forgotten—a universal fear that resonates deeply. Tobias’s inability to provide her with a comforting explanation reflects the raw, unvarnished realism of the film. These moments really remind viewers of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of making the most out of the present.
Follow Georgios on Medium and Instagram.
We Live in Time is screening in cinemas from Thursday the 16th of January. For tickets and more info, click here.