CEBU, Philippines — It makes perfect sense that Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh’s first (and hopefully not their last) team-up would be in a romantic drama. After making their mark in blockbusters and award-winning projects, it’s refreshing to see these two excellent British actors in a more intimate affair.
Now showing in Philippine cinemas through Pioneer Films (known as Viewers' Choice Philippines), “We Live in Time” focuses on a couple Tobias (Garfield) and Almut (Pugh) through various stages of their relationship: from the first time they met in an accident, their struggles in conceiving a child, to Almut’s cancer diagnosis. Told in a non-linear style, the film goes back and forth with their scenes to showcase the highs and lows of their love story.
The script feels familiar, with plot points that could easily be imagined in a Star Cinema romantic film featuring a Kapamilya love team — a factor that makes it relatable for Filipino audiences. Yet, it retains a British flair with its romantic drama tropes that can be seen in similar films like “About Time” and “Love Actually.”
At the heart of the story is Almut, whose perspective grounds much of the narrative. We watch her juggle roles as Tobias’ partner, a mother to their daughter Ella, a head chef, and a cancer patient. We also learn why she switched her ice figure skating shoes for the chef’s hat and why she is determined to achieve her goals despite her diagnosis.
Pugh’s performance completes Almut that the role feels tailor-made for her. She brings out qualities in her character that feel relatable and deeply human, making her someone we might recognize in ourselves or our friends.
Garfield also delivers a solid, relatable performance, though his character could’ve used more development. While some scenes show him as a great boyfriend, there are a handful of others that make him look unflattering.
Almut’s flaws are depicted with nuance and understanding, making it feel a bit unfair when Tobias’s flaws are on display as there’s no deeper context to explain why he comes across that way.
Despite this, Pugh and Garfield’s strong chemistry is undeniable, and their dynamic is likely what people will remember when they look back at this film in a few years.
Everything comes together in its emotional third act. Without giving too much away, Tobias and Almut find a way to strengthen their relationship despite the challenges set against them, something that will likely leave the audience teary-eyed.
As of writing, there will be another romantic drama coming out in theaters in a few days that will probably get more attention, and seats are guaranteed to be sold out in its opening week.
For anyone looking for an alternative on the big screen, which is a romantic drama that is relatable and carried by two great actors of our time, "We Live in Time" is a perfect counter-programming choice. Three and a half stars out of five. — (FREEMAN)