KSL Movie Show review: ‘We Live in Time’ delivers a unique perspective on the tried and true love story
Oct 18, 2024, 7:00 AM | Updated: 10:00 am
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SALT LAKE CITY — Two things I look for in a romantic drama: chemistry and authenticity.
Fortunately, Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh have that can’t-catch-your-breath magnetic draw, while the screenplay is full of delectable thoughts and words that makes one want to live life to the fullest, or at least know what that possibility looks like.
Tobias (Garfield) and Almut (Pugh) are on two very different plains when they first meet. It’s not exactly a “meet cute” moment, as he mindlessly steps in front of her Mini Cooper, only to wake up in a bandaged daze at a hospital with this angel of near-death staring back at him.
He doesn’t know who she is, but feels like he should. She is mortified that she ran him over and offers him and his soon-to-be ex-wife a complimentary dinner to make amends.
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Soon we discover that the filmmaker has decided to make this movie in a nonlinear fashion, so you’ll have to hold onto the reins with both hands. Some people hate that kind of construct. If you’re one of them, you’ll likely want to skip this love story. But if you’re willing to take a chance, the rewards are definitely available.
I think I get why he builds the story this way, because it does have some heart-wrenching “life is beautiful” moments, and then the occasional warm-sun-on-your-face delights, much like the way life itself pops in and out with bouts of despair and joy.
Again, fortunately, these people are so very good at their craft, that they make the journey appreciable and enjoyable.
I was especially fascinated by the Almut character, who knew exactly what she wanted in life — to be one of the greatest chefs in the world — but felt the need to alter those plans when love came a-callin’. And now she has to think as a couple, perhaps about raising a family (which at one point she’s cruelly against), but people adapt and so do they both.
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My other fascination comes from the scenes that are so different and yet so natural. The petrol station scene (yes, we’re in England) is one that is shockingly bold and horrifying, but simultaneously hysterical and energetic.
It feels like we’ve seen moments like this in other films, but just not as carefree and engaging as these two make it seem.
So I’m definitely onboard with “We Live in Time” as it delivers such a unique perspective on the tried and true love story, which can be told in a multitude of ways — and this just happens to be one of the more interesting.
WE LIVE IN TIME (B+) Rated R for language, sexuality and nudity. Starring Andrew Garfield, Florence Pugh, Grace Delaney, Lee Braithwaite and Aoife Hinds. Directed by John Crowley (“Brooklyn” “Boy A”) – filmed in London. Running time: 107 minutes.
