The world premiere of the new cancer drama “We Live in Time” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) featured standout performances from stars Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield that deeply moved many in the audience. The film, directed by John Crowley, explores the complex relationship between a couple dealing with a cancer diagnosis through a series of flashbacks.
Almut, played by Pugh, is diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer shortly after meeting Tobias, played by Garfield. Their blossoming romance is upended by the news. Through various moments in their time together, from their first encounter where Almut accidentally hits Tobias with her car to navigating her illness, the couple supports each other through the challenges.
Both lead actors poured their souls into physically and emotionally demanding roles. In a post-screening discussion, a visibly shaken Pugh described the intense experience of filming a particularly difficult birth scene multiple times without the payoff of a baby. Garfield drew on personal experiences with loss in preparing for his role. The actors credited two weeks of rehearsal and Crowley’s direction with building the trust necessary to portray such raw moments.
Garfield called the set of the birthing scene “a holy site” due to the reverence with which all approached the material. The actors’ chemistry, according to Garfield, came from truly listening to each other. Crowley observed Garfield’s growth and complexity as an actor over their prior collaboration.
The film tackles intimate and emotional scenes with commitment. It focuses on treasuring life’s moments in the face of uncertainty through profound human connection. “We Live in Time” looks to continue generating awards buzz for Pugh and Garfield with its powerful storytelling when released in theaters on October 11.
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