For the past six decades, Stephen King’s work has been adapted from page to screen countless times. Starting with 1976’s Carrie, these adaptations have delivered undeniable highs and forgettable lows, yet there’s always excitement for what’s next. From the highs of the Oscars to the lows of the Razzies, King’s stories remain a reliable source of cinematic conversation.
Since 2000, films like The Mist, 1408 and IT have stood out as some of the most memorable. But it’s Mike Flanagan’s collaborations that feel like a match made in heaven. Starting with Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, Flanagan’s signature blend of introspective writing and emotionally grounded, character driven direction turned each project into a must see genre events.
Enter The Life of Chuck. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival and winning the coveted audience award, anticipation for NEON’s summer 2025 release soared even higher. And once the credits rolled, one thing became clear- Mike Flanagan just gets it. The Life of Chuck is euphoric. Flanagan fuses Stephen King’s nostalgic tenderness with a Frank Capra-esque celebration of human connection, creating a heartfelt embrace of life’s most precious moments.
Based on Stephen King’s short story, the film traces three distinct chapters in the life of Charles “Chuck” Krantz. Told in reverse, it begins with a world mourning and celebrating Chuck’s 39 years, then rewinds to Chuck’s adult life, and ultimately lands in the wonder and fragility of his childhood.
As with the majority of Flanagan’s work, the screenplay is one of the film’s strongest assets. Taking King’s unconventional format, Flanagan’s script is patient, grounded and effectively captures the surrealistic moments while never abandoning the themes of memory, mortality and ones impact on the world. With his screenplay, Flanagan echoes Frank Capra’s most poignant beats from It’s A Wonderful Life that culminates with a soulful and introspective meditation that not only honors King’s adaptation, but delivers one of the years best and moving cinematic achievements.
Anchoring the film are the heartfelt performances of Tom Hiddleston and Benjamin Pajak. Hiddleston radiates Chuck’s quiet strength, compassion and deep vulnerability. Though his screen time is limited, he captivates and leaves a lasting impression, delivering one of the year’s most dynamic musical dance sequences. But it’s Benjamin Pajak who delivers the film’s standout performance. With sincerity and emotional nuance, Pajak captures Chuck’s journey of self-discovery that is both honest and moving.
Supporting turns from Mark Hamill and Mia Sara add more depth. Together, they help build the emotional world revolving Chuck with warmth and tenderness. Sara’s kitchen dance scenes with Pajak are filled with charm and levity, while Hamill’s reflective monologues on life and the importance of Math left a lasting impact.
As an unapologetic movie crier, few things hit harder than a well executed emotional beat paired with an impactful score, and The Newton Brothers’ score is nothing short of perfection. Perfectly capturing and elevating the films emotional pulse, the score is one of the best of the year and has earned a permanent spot on my Apple Music film score playlist.
If a dumpster fire like Hurry Up Tomorrow will make you question why you love movies, The Life of Chuck is a reminder of why you do. It’s not just about spectacle, but it’s about the small powerful moments that shape who we are. Mike Flanagan doesn’t just craft a film that lingers; he delivers one that stays with you, holding a space that’s well earned.
