**Review: *We Live in Time* Misses Its Star-Studded Expectations**

On the surface, *We Live in Time* appears to be a contemporary tearjerker in the making. Directed by John Crowley, renowned for the well-received romance *Brooklyn*, the film features beloved stars Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield in a tale infused with passion and sorrow. However, despite its potentially engaging aspects—emotional resonance, star appeal, and a narrative that skips through time—the film ultimately disappoints, presenting a fragmented and lacking experience.

### A Promising Premise That Underwhelms

With two of Hollywood’s most coveted performers, *We Live in Time* had the chance to become an award-winning sensation. Nevertheless, instead of crafting a captivating love story, the film falters in establishing its path. The time-shifting framework, which could have introduced complexity and allure, instead proves confusing and exasperating, hindering the audience’s investment in the characters’ journey.

### A Narrative Device That Falls Flat

The film begins with Almut (Pugh), an aspiring chef, relishing a serene morning—running through the woods, gathering culinary ingredients, and cooking breakfast in a charming cottage while her husband Tobias (Garfield) rests. Just as their happiness is set, the narrative abruptly rewinds to their initial encounter, when Tobias was going through a divorce.

Although their chemistry is palpable—especially in their quirky car accident meeting and the now-famous merry-go-round moment—the film’s structure disrupts the emotional trajectory. Scenes are pieced together with minimal attention to pacing or thematic unity, rendering the romance as more a series of vignettes than a fully realized love narrative.

### A Plot Lacking Emotional Resonance

Despite its temporal shifts, the storyline remains relatively simple. Almut and Tobias fall for each other while she establishes her first restaurant and he confronts the aftermath of his marriage. They navigate obstacles, including differing opinions on parenthood and Almut’s initial struggle with cancer. The central tension arises when her cancer reemerges, compelling her to choose between enduring another round of chemotherapy or savoring the time left to her.

Although this setup could have led to a deeply affecting film, the disjointed storytelling precludes it from making a lasting impact. Rather than drawing the audience deeply into their love story, the film resembles a collection of fleeting moments, making it challenging to forge an emotional connection with the characters.

### Florence Pugh Shines, But Andrew Garfield Remains Underused

Pugh showcases a compelling performance, embodying Almut as a woman caught between her love for her family and her personal aspirations. Her internal conflict—yearning to be more than just a mother facing death—adds layers to her role. However, Tobias is portrayed with far less complexity. He primarily reacts to Almut’s choices, giving the impression of being more of an accessory than a fully fleshed-out character.

Garfield does his utmost with the material, delivering heartfelt expressions and touching moments, yet the film’s format leaves him with limited opportunities. His character’s legitimate concerns—integrity in their marriage and the possibility of further treatment—are eclipsed by a script that regards him as an impediment rather than a collaborative partner in the narrative.

### A Missed Chance for a Stronger Film

While *We Live in Time* is certainly not the worst film of the year, it doesn’t meet its inherent potential. The time-hopping mechanism, rather than enriching the narrative, feels like a distraction intended to mask the screenplay’s lack of substance. Almut’s first encounter with cancer is scarcely addressed, and the emotional stakes never fully escalate, rendering the film somewhat vacuous.

Crowley’s directing and the undeniable rapport between Pugh and Garfield provide glimpses of what could have evolved into an exceptionally poignant film. Moments like their initial hospital dialogue and the birth of their child suggest deeper emotional layers. Yet, the film never quite capitalizes on these instances, ultimately presenting a narrative that is more frustrating than emotionally resonant.

### Final Assessment

In spite of its impressive cast and emotionally laden premise, *We Live in Time* falls short of its ambitions. The fragmented storytelling, lack of narrative cohesion, and underdeveloped characters detract from its potential as a powerful romance. While Pugh and Garfield deliver commendable performances, the film ultimately stands as a missed opportunity—one that fails to encapsulate the raw emotion and depth that could have rendered it truly remarkable.

*We Live in Time* is currently available for streaming on Max.