Almut and Tobias’s unexpected meeting leads to a profound romantic journey in L’Amour au présent, starring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh. The film explores themes of love, work, and parenthood with authenticity, avoiding melodrama while highlighting relatable experiences. Garfield describes the project as emotionally resonant and cathartic, drawing from personal loss. Their chemistry, rooted in mutual respect and vulnerability, enriches the narrative, making it a compelling watch that balances humor with heartfelt moments.
Overview of the Film
Almut and Tobias experience a life-altering moment when fate brings them together unexpectedly. This poignant romance beautifully explores the transformative moments that shape our lives.
The Perfect Pairing
There’s so much to celebrate about L’Amour au présent that it’s hard to know where to start. Let’s kick off with the film’s standout feature, prominently showcased on its promotional materials: the incredible cast, featuring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh.
Both actors are among the finest of their generation, with Garfield known for his roles as Marvel’s Spider-Man and Pugh as Black Widow’s sister. They are not only charming but also Oscar nominees, recognized for their performances in films like Hacksaw Ridge and Tick, Tick… Boom! for him, and Little Women for her. Together, they create an undeniable chemistry that captivates audiences.
Despite never having shared the screen before, their connection is palpable from the very start, as the narrative unfolds over a decade, showcasing the couple’s journey and the challenges they face. While the collaboration of two such talented actors doesn’t automatically ensure success, L’Amour au présent skillfully sidesteps that trap.
‘I love Florence’, Garfield reveals when discussing the secret behind their chemistry. ‘I’m fortunate that she’s wonderful, making it effortless to care for her and support her. Our bond, along with the love and trust we share, developed naturally.’
‘We didn’t have to force anything. We were simply attentive and respectful towards one another, and that respect was the foundation that allowed us to explore moments of vulnerability and tenderness.’ This authenticity is a significant aspect of L’Amour au présent, marking it as one of its key strengths.
Emotionally Charged Themes
Love, work, health, and the challenges of parenthood are themes prevalent throughout this film. While they may seem typical at first glance, the film shines in its portrayal of these experiences, evoking deep emotions. Much like (500) Days of Summer, which features a fragmented narrative with resonant sequences, L’Amour au présent opts for a more naturalistic approach rather than fantasy.
Even if viewers haven’t faced the same trials as the characters, it’s nearly impossible not to resonate with their struggles. Andrew Garfield himself has expressed how he drew from personal experiences, including the loss of his mother in 2019, to find closure through this film.
‘I was in a reflective state when I read the script, and it resonated deeply with what I was feeling inside’, Garfield shares, choosing to describe the film’s effects as ‘healing’ or ‘cathartic’ instead of ‘therapeutic’. ‘I enjoy using my imagination to create a character as much as I do infusing my personal experiences into my work.’
A Personal Journey
‘This film felt incredibly personal for me, requiring a different approach than my previous roles: I had to let go, relax, and allow the character to unfold naturally. I aimed for spontaneity and authenticity.’
The relatability of L’Amour au présent, which emphasizes living in the moment—reflected in its original title, We Live in Time—can be attributed to this approach. Throughout their careers, Garfield and Pugh have portrayed larger-than-life characters, from superheroes to complex historical figures.
In this film, they embody the essence of ‘normal’ individuals. Their experiences are relatable and reflective of everyday life, presenting a unique challenge for the actors. ‘This was a significant shift for me’, Garfield admits. ‘The difficulties here differ from those of more flamboyant roles like Desmond Doss [Hacksaw Ridge] or Peter Parker.’
‘When playing these extraordinary characters, I feel the pressure to create something grand. With Tobias, the challenge lies in portraying ordinary life convincingly—making it engaging and authentic without embellishment.’
By incorporating humor into the drama, L’Amour au présent remains true to the everyday struggles we face, steering clear of excessive sentimentality. Director John Crowley, who previously collaborated with Garfield on Boy A, achieves a remarkable balance, delivering an accurate representation without resorting to melodrama, despite the temptation to do so.
So prepare yourselves: after a toast, be ready for tears to flow freely this January 1st.
Interview conducted by Maximilien Pierrette in Paris on December 17, 2024