Director Mike Flanagan returns for a third time to the world of legendary author Stephen King in “The Life of Chuck,” produced by NEON. Flanagan also writes the screenplay for the film, which is based on the story of the same name that first appeared in King’s book “If It Bleeds.”
The narrative of “The Life of Chuck” transcends traditional genre boundaries while paying tribute to the life of the main character, Charles “Chuck” Krantz, as depicted by Tom Hiddleston. The narrative explores how love functions in complex ways alongside human experiences of grief and the multitude of shared human journeys. As those familiar with the book know, the narrative is structured into three acts, presented in reverse chronological order, with Act 3 as the initial segment.
I wasn’t familiar with the source material, but knowing that Mike Flanagan directed it and had previously found success with Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, I approached the film with an open mind. In the first act, I was impressed by Nick Offerman’s narration, which sets up the story and reveals that the world is ending: internet service is down, TV doesn’t work, and cell phones are useless.
We then meet schoolteacher Marty (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who has somewhat accepted his fate but still strives to inspire parents to educate their children in a limited time. Meanwhile, Marty’s estranged partner, local doctor Felicia (Karen Gillan), is busy attending to residents who have chosen to take the easy way out. In the midst of this, Marty decides to set out to reunite with Mary. I must also shout out Carl Lumby, David Dastmalchian and Matthew Lillard, all of whom have great but brief parts.
Act Two finally introduces us to Chuck in his adult life and gives Tom Hiddleston a chance to display his British charm while showing off impressive dance moves as he falls in love with and discovers himself as a man. In hindsight, Flanagan was tapping into the school of Frank Capra as you can’t help but smile at the feel nature of it.
In the third act, the film’s true essence comes to light as characters from earlier in the story return. The narrative centers around Chuck, first as a child, portrayed by Benjamin Pajak and later as a teenager, played by Jacob Tremblay. After losing his parents, Chuck is raised by his grandparents, who Mark Hamill and Mia Sara portray. Hamill delivers a stellar performance, and it’s a delight to see Mia Sara back on screen.
Before writing my review, I saw the film twice, once as a screener at home and then for a second time at an Alamo Q&A. While Flanngan nails the aesthetic of a drama, I found the film decent, if not a tide, but shallow on my first view. However, on the second view of a cinema with my son, it all made sense, and that is to enjoy the best of life.
While I’m not sure if the film is my best of the year, I fully expect the studio to launch an Awards campaign and recommend it to those looking for a quality drama.
Final Grade: B
“The Life of Chuck” will be released in select theatres today and will expand nationwide on June 13.
