Andrew Garfield is currently riding high on the buzz surrounding his new romantic drama film, We Live in Time, which hits theaters later this month. Recent appearances on talk shows have not only showcased his acting prowess but also brought humor and personality to his promotional efforts, particularly during his appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
While on the show, Garfield surprised Colbert with a T-shirt featuring the infamous demonic carousel horse from his film's promotional material, humorously dubbed the "demon carousel horse" by fans and media alike. Bringing the horse to the forefront of their conversation, Garfield referred to it as something worth exploring, stating, "I’m gonna make a three-part documentary series to get to the bottom of like where the oversight fell apart and why this horse has taken on a life of its own." The actor's playful banter about the horse speaks to the film's unique charm and the strong chemistry he shares with co-star Florence Pugh, who plays the chef Almut, alongside Garfield's character, Tobias.
Set against the backdrop of careers and personal battles, We Live in Time tells the poignant story of love confronting challenges, including Almut's cancer diagnosis. Film enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the release, which is slated for limited theaters on October 11, followed by nationwide availability on October 18.
Garfield's appearances also highlight his efforts to distance himself from the shadow of his previous role as Spider-Man. During the Marrakech Film Festival, where he served as part of the jury alongside director Luca Guadagnino, Garfield humorously remarked about his past, expressing, "I’ve had to work very hard to have less people ask questions about Spider-Man. I’m still working on it, obviously. It’s an imperfect process." Despite his desire to move on, Garfield acknowledged with gratitude the opportunities his time as the superhero afforded him, noting, "I think Marty probably was able to get a passion project made with a guy who played Spider-Man in the lead to play a Jesuit priest in the 1600s of Japan," referring to his role in Martin Scorsese's film, Silence.
Co-juror Guadagnino, who has worked with Garfield on the upcoming thriller After the Hunt, expressed admiration for the Spider-Man franchise, recalling his attempts to direct Garfield himself. The discussion reveals the interconnectedness of talent within the film industry and how Garfield has seized unique projects across genres and styles.
Garfield shared his excitement about working with Guadagnino after years of anticipation, emphasizing their strong connection and creative synchronization. He noted, "Luca is a master, and I have known him for 14 years... this collaboration has been long coming." This sentiment fuels the notion of Garfield's dedication to carefully choosing projects reflective of his artistic ambitions and desires.
During the festival, Garfield delved more deeply, explaining how immersing himself in international cinema as part of the jury has shaped his perspectives. He acknowledged the privilege of watching non-English speaking films, stating, "It’s such a beautiful opportunity to have devoted time to non-English speaking films. It’s a privilege. I’m on a nine-to-five schedule, so I long for it." His passion for storytelling and varied cultures indicates his commitment to growth as both an actor and individual.
Clearly, Garfield's post-Spider-Man career is marked by deliberate choices and diverse cinematic experiences. Critics have responded positively to We Live in Time, complimenting its non-linear structure and the way it presents complex themes of love and loss. FilmInk highlighted, “Garfield and Pugh continue to reveal new extents to their respective ranges.” This reaction affirms Garfield's transition from the superhero genre to more introspective storytelling, showcasing his versatility and sincerity as an actor.
Reflecting on his earlier experiences working with iconic filmmakers and actors, such as the late Heath Ledger and Philip Seymour Hoffman, Garfield articulated how their legacies inspire him to push his boundaries. He mentioned the void left by such influential figures, stating, “There’s this horrific void and vacuum... They are pulling me toward what I want to do.” This perspective exhibits the depth of Garfield's artistry and his desire to honor the legacies of those who came before him.
Emphasizing his disinterest in social media, Garfield candidly expressed the pressure it exerts on personal serenity, stating, “I think social media would probably take from my serenity more than give to my serenity.” His commitment to facing real-world issues as part of his craft underlines his desire not just to entertain but to engage thoughtfully with the world around him.
With the excitement for We Live in Time reaching new heights, audiences and critics alike are eager to see how Garfield will continue to evolve as he explores diverse roles, remaining defiant against the confines of the superhero identity he once embodied. The cinematic brilliance he exhibits might just mark the beginning of even greater endeavors ahead.
