“We Live in Time”

The complexities of love, family, and life are explored in director John Crowley’s “We Live in Time,” a sentimental and ultimately heartbreaking romance that really tugs at the ‘ol heartstrings. It’s a highly emotional tearjerker about the choices that define our lives, and thanks to a natural chemistry from co-stars Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, it works well despite crossing the line into overly melodramatic territory.

Almut (Pugh) and Tobias (Garfield) first meet after she accidentally hits him with her car. Sparks fly at the hospital, and that one encounter changes their lives forever. Through her successful and demanding career as a chef to his desire to be a dad and family man, the film tells the story of their life together in snapshots that drift back and forth in time.

The story rings true, especially as it includes the daily mundane struggles of couplehood along with the more extraordinary events and crises that Alma and Tobias face. The majority of their journey is about their yearning to start a family and the personal sacrifices that come along with becoming parents. Those seeking a more traditional love story will enjoy the earlier parts of the film, as it eventually delves into the challenges of balancing career ambitions with a fulfilling family life that’s burdened with increasing responsibilities.

For those who have chosen a life path of becoming parents, the story may hit differently than those of us who have not. I found Nick Payne’s writing to be particularly insightful in this case, especially when it comes to portraying the struggles faced by women and the societal pressures and personal conflicts that go along with the decision to become a mother (or not).

The characters’ rich histories and personalities are well-developed and add depth to the story, and a lot of credit goes to the two leads. They both give strong turns and are completely believable here, and the casting is nothing short of excellent. They can’t quite overcome the more maudlin direction the film eventually takes, but at least the pair make it watchable until the end.

The film’s structure alternates between timelines, providing snapshots of the evolution of the couple’s relationship. This approach allows “We Live in Time” to explore how memories collide with the present, offering a perspective on how our time together actually means something important. One thing you can never have enough of is time, so you should always do your best to make the most of it.

By: Louisa Moore