This past spring, I was diagnosed with non-hodgkin lymphoma. When people find out that one of my favourite films to watch during my chemo-filled summer was 50/50 (2011), they’re usually surprised. As depressing as they can be, I like watching cancer movies because I’m interested in how different films depict us cancer survivors (this includes not only those who have “beaten” their cancer, but also those who are living with cancer today) and our lives. So, when I learned that two of my favourite actors, Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, were going to be starring in the latest cancer flick — John Crowley’s We Live In Time (2024) — I knew I had to watch it.
The most unique part of the film is easily its non-chronological structure. The story jumps back and forth while demonstrating key moments in Tobias (Garfield) and Almut’s (Pugh) relationship, giving it the feel of a poem in cinematic form. Some of these key scenes include the couple’s wholesome first date, their infuriating first argument, the unique birth of their child, Almut’s cancer diagnosis, and the event that kicks off their relationship — when Almut accidentally hits Tobias with her car (talk about sweeping a guy off his feet!).
An esteemed chef and restaurant owner, Almut is portrayed as more than just her illness and not once is she written as a flawless victim. There are moments when the audience might disagree with her, and even dislike her, preventing Almut’s character from falling into common stereotypes that surround cancer survivors — that we lose our identity with our diagnosis and that we are perfect victims to be pitied. Of course, part of this success is attributed to Pugh’s phenomenal acting skills (unsurprising if you’ve seen any of her other performances).
Unfortunately, Tobias’ character was not nearly as compelling. The film is set up as being about the relationship between Almut and Tobias, which to me implies that the two characters should have equal significance in the film. However, his personality and development are gradually overshadowed. Compared to Almut, we see relatively little of Tobias’ past, beliefs, and occupation. As talented an actor as Garfield is, this role criminally underutilized his outstanding acting abilities.
As someone who did lose her hair during chemotherapy, my final gripe with this film is that, while Almut does shave her head, her hair never actually falls out. Yes, I know not everyone experiences this during chemo, but hair loss is shown to be the intention for Almut in this film. During production, Pugh had actually allowed her co-star to shave her head, rather than wear a wig or a bald cap. Pugh explained in an interview with Vanity Fair that she wanted to “do the thing that [was] needed to be done.” Look, I’m all for committing to the role; however, letting Almut get away with a flattering buzzcut instead of a shiny bald head was a missed opportunity. It’s possible my expectations were too high, but I was hoping for some representation for us baldies (especially from a female character).
I’ll conclude my review with a quote from the film that resonates with me. At one point, Almut’s oncologist says, “It’s okay not to be okay. It’s a lot.” To some, this might sound insignificant, and maybe even a tad cheesy. However, to me and other young adult cancer survivors I’ve met, this idea is something we wish others understood.
There is often a degree of pressure on us to constantly be these inspirational, brave warriors for others, but the weight of these titles can be overwhelming. At times, I myself feel like I must either act positive to the point of toxicity or risk being scolded for expressing any fears or grief. All of that to say, it was a breath of fresh air to have the emotional hardship of a cancer diagnosis not only validated in this film, but also embodied through a flawed character.
Was the movie perfect? No. Should you still watch it? Absolutely. A heartfelt and bittersweet exploration into the way we live and love, We Live In Time is one of those movies that resonates with viewers long after they’ve seen it.
