PLOT SUMMARY: The film explores the profound connection between an apocalyptic event and the life journey of a gentle accountant named Chuck, portrayed by Tom Hiddleston.
DETAILED MOVIE REVIEW: There are two distinct groups of viewers who will be drawn to this review of The Life of Chuck—those familiar with the short story and those experiencing it for the first time. Admittedly, I fall into the latter category. While I was tempted to read the source material before attending the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where I first viewed this cinematic adaptation by Mike Flanagan, I ultimately decided against it. My aim was to engage with the film on its own merits, free from any preconceived ideas or expectations.
From the outset, I found myself captivated by Flanagan’s latest venture, marking his first project since adapting Stephen King’s Doctor Sleep. The narrative unfolds in a tranquil small town, reminiscent of many found in King’s works, where a dedicated schoolteacher, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, strives to capture his students’ attention amidst a chaotic apocalyptic backdrop. Major cities like California have vanished, internet connectivity has crumbled (with the unfortunate absence of even PornHub), and the town itself is on the brink of collapse. As the world deteriorates, the teacher and his estranged wife, played by Karen Gillan, begin to rekindle their relationship, even as the reality around them unravels—a plot point elegantly delivered through one of Flanagan’s signature monologues, featuring Matthew Lillard in a supporting role. Throughout this turmoil, billboards prominently display messages of gratitude directed toward Chuck for his thirty-nine years of dedicated service.
So, who is Chuck?
Flanagan’s film is structured into three acts, with the latter two revealing the answers to this pivotal question in reverse chronological order. Chuck, as embodied by Tom Hiddleston, is a kind-hearted accountant grappling with an inoperable brain tumor. Through his journey, he begins to uncover the beauty in life’s fleeting moments and reflects on the circumstances that have led him to this point. It’s a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with those of us who have come to understand the brevity of our time on this planet, often realizing that our end may be nearer than we care to admit.

While the premise may seem bleak, akin to many adaptations of Stephen King’s narratives like The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, Stand By Me, and Hearts of Atlantis, the film possesses a surprising amount of warmth and sweetness. Indeed, Hiddleston delivers one of his most endearing performances to date, skillfully portraying a man acutely aware of his diminishing time while simultaneously discovering joy in unexpected places. One memorable scene features Hiddleston and a young woman, Annalise Basso, spontaneously dancing in front of a busker, driven by an irresistible impulse that encapsulates the film’s essence.
Given the collaboration between Stephen King and Mike Flanagan, one might anticipate a thrilling horror element. However, it’s crucial to clarify that The Life of Chuck steers clear of traditional horror tropes. While it does explore supernatural themes and apocalyptic scenarios typical of King’s work, the film leans more towards optimism. The cast features a plethora of Mike Flanagan’s regular collaborators, including Mark Hamill in a significant role as Chuck’s affectionate grandfather, Mia Sara in a delightful role as his wife, along with Rahul Kohli, Kate Siegel, Samantha Sloyan, Carl Lumbly, and a notable cameo by Heather Langenkamp from A Nightmare on Elm Street. Although it may not fit the horror label, the film is packed with beloved faces from the genre.
Ultimately, The Life of Chuck presents a distinctive approach for Flanagan, allowing him to delve deeply into character development without conforming to genre conventions. This shift may narrow his audience, yet devoted fans, myself included, are sure to appreciate this poignant detour. The film serves as a bittersweet reminder of the transience of life, urging viewers to cherish joyous moments, however brief they may be, as we navigate our limited time on Earth.
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