Helmed by John Crowley, We Live in Time (2024) is a film that gracefully intertwines elements of melodrama with the essence of a romantic comedy. With two brilliant actors—Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, this film initially presents itself as a lighthearted love story.
However, beneath its seemingly simple exterior lies a deeply moving narrative that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the weight of time.
Florence Pugh plays Almut, a chef at a restaurant, while Andrew Garfield portrays Tobias, a representative at a food company.
Together, they navigate the joys of life and parenthood while raising their daughter, Ella. Nevertheless, the film takes a poignant turn when Almut is diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of time slipping away.
A deeper look at love and struggle
While We Live in Time fits within the rom-com genre, it stands apart by weaving in profound themes that go beyond the usual lighthearted tropes. The film doesn’t shy away from tackling difficult subjects—terminal illness, the decision of whether or not to have children, and the emotional burden of watching a loved one fade away.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is how it realistically captures emotions.
The dialogues are simple yet powerful, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the characters’ experiences. The performances by Garfield and Pugh are particularly commendable, as they bring raw authenticity to every scene.
For anyone who has lost a loved one to cancer, the film is especially moving. It serves as a reminder to cherish the little moments and appreciate the people in our lives.
Through Almut and Tobias, the film paints a picture of a couple who, despite the impending loss, choose to find beauty in their time together rather than succumb to despair.
A notable strength of We Live in Time is its depiction of a mature relationship based on communication and mutual support. Almut and Tobias do not let their struggles drive them apart, instead, they confront each challenge together.
Whether it’s dealing with the stress of Almut’s diagnosis or making life-altering decisions, they engage in honest conversations—something that is rarely portrayed in films today.
Their dynamic is a refreshing take on modern relationships, emphasizing that love is not just about romance but also about standing by one another in the toughest times.
Seizing the present moment
At the heart of the film is the idea of living in the moment.
Almut is given the option to undergo surgery for her tumor, but with no guarantee that it will prevent the cancer from spreading or ultimately leading to her demise.
Despite this, she chooses to forgo the procedure. She decides to spend quality time with her family, making the most of the time she has left.
As a chef, cooking is the one thing Almut can still control. She pours all her energy into perfecting her craft, ultimately earning a place in the prestigious Bocuse d'Or—the Olympics of the culinary world.
However, fate presents her with a difficult choice—the competition falls on the same day as her wedding. With only a limited amount of time left, she must decide between chasing her professional dream or spending one of her final days celebrating her love with Tobias and Ella.
Almut’s struggle is a reflection of what countless women experience—wanting to build a meaningful career while also being present for their loved ones.
Her choice to pursue the competition highlights her determination to leave behind a legacy beyond being a wife and mother. She refuses to let her illness define her existence and instead chooses to be remembered for her strength, ambition, and passion.
The essence of time
The film employs a non-linear storytelling approach, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life and love, while adding a layer of realism that mirrors the fragmented nature of human memory and experience.
The structure of the film, which shifts between different points in time, reflects the experience of life flashing before one’s eyes.
The first 10-15 minutes may seem disjointed, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that this technique serves a greater purpose—capturing the essence of time and how we live within it.
We Live in Time takes audiences on an emotional journey through the highs and lows of love and loss, reminding us to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
