Florence Pugh’s latest film, We Live In Time, showcases a raw and intimate portrayal of a love story, exploring the evolving dynamics of a relationship through the lens of physical intimacy. Pugh, known for her outspokenness regarding the depiction of women’s bodies in Hollywood, embraced the opportunity to delve into the complexities of love and connection. With the guidance of an intimacy coordinator, she and co-star Andrew Garfield meticulously crafted scenes that reflect the couple’s journey, from initial fumbling encounters to passionate expressions of desire during attempts to conceive. Pugh emphasizes the importance of slowing down and imbuing each touch with meaning, allowing the history of their physical connection to tell a story of its own. This deliberate approach to intimacy allowed the actors to deepen their on-screen chemistry and create a more authentic portrayal of a couple’s evolving physical relationship.
Pugh’s dedication to portraying the complexities of the relationship extended beyond the physical. She and Garfield sought to create a believable and deeply connected portrayal of their characters’ love. This collaborative effort, fostered through their shared enjoyment of delving into the characters’ emotional depths, resulted in a performance that resonated deeply with Pugh. She expressed that the experience of filming We Live In Time ignited a desire within her to experience similar profound love and connection in her own life, a testament to the film’s powerful exploration of human relationships.
Off-screen, Pugh’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. Following a relationship with Zach Braff, she is currently dating Peaky Blinders actor Finn Cole. Pugh has spoken candidly about her approach to this new relationship, emphasizing a desire for slow, organic growth, rather than the "rollercoaster" of intense emotions she’s experienced in the past. This more measured approach reflects a personal growth and a conscious decision to prioritize authenticity and allow the relationship to evolve naturally. This contrasts with the whirlwind of speculation she faced during the filming of Don’t Worry Darling, where rumors of on-set tension with director Olivia Wilde dominated headlines. Pugh, however, remains steadfast in her commitment to expressing her opinions, particularly when faced with criticism, a trait that defines her both on and off-screen.
Beyond her romantic relationships, Pugh has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and challenging conventional beauty standards. She has directly confronted online trolls who criticize her appearance, emphasizing the importance of respecting all bodies. This outspokenness stems from her own experience navigating the pressures of Hollywood, where fluctuating weight is often scrutinized. Pugh embraces her own changing body shape, emphasizing that it is a natural part of life and not something to be ashamed of. This self-acceptance and willingness to challenge societal expectations positions her as a role model for young women entering the industry, encouraging open conversations about body image and self-worth.
In We Live In Time, Pugh plays Almut, a young woman who faces a devastating cancer diagnosis with only six months to live. This challenging role resonated with Pugh on a personal level, prompting reflection on the importance of making the most of time and expressing love to those closest to us. Almut’s story echoes themes present in Pugh’s own life, particularly her decision to freeze her eggs after being diagnosed with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. This personal connection to the character’s struggles adds depth to Pugh’s performance and highlights her ability to draw on personal experiences to create authentic portrayals of complex emotions. The film’s exploration of mortality and the preciousness of life resonated deeply with Pugh, connecting with her own personal reflections on family, love, and the choices we make in the face of life’s challenges.
The filming of We Live In Time presented Pugh with both physical and emotional challenges. One particularly demanding scene involved an arduous 15-minute birthing sequence, which she had to repeat eight times. Despite the physical exhaustion, Pugh found the experience emotionally rewarding, likening it to a shared journey of parenthood with Garfield. This intense process, while demanding, allowed Pugh and Garfield to deepen their connection and create a powerful and moving portrayal of a couple facing life’s ultimate joys and sorrows. The film’s exploration of universal themes, such as starting a family and confronting mortality, resonates deeply with audiences, prompting reflection on their own experiences and relationships.
