Stephen King’s literary universe is vast and varied, extending far beyond the chilling horror that defines much of his work. His 2020 novella collection, If It Bleeds, introduced The Life of Chuck, a poignant, non-horror narrative that has now found its way to the big screen courtesy of master adapter Mike Flanagan. With Tom Hiddleston in the titular role of Charles “Chuck” Krantz, this Stephen King adaptation promises a unique cinematic experience, exploring themes of life, legacy, and the interconnectedness of humanity in a profoundly moving way. The Life of Chuck opens in cinemas on 6 June.

The Life of Chuck stands out in King’s bibliography for its unconventional structure. Told in reverse chronological order across three distinct acts, the story begins with Chuck’s death from a brain tumor at 39, then delves into his life’s defining moments, culminating in his childhood. This narrative device, meticulously brought to life by director Mike Flanagan, known for his nuanced and emotionally resonant Stephen King adaptations like Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, is central to the film’s impact. It allows the audience to witness the profound influence Chuck has had on the world, even as that world faces an inexplicable, impending apocalypse.

At the heart of this “life-affirming, genre-bending story” is Tom Hiddleston as Charles Krantz. Hiddleston, renowned for his charismatic and complex performances, from the mischievous Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the suave Jonathan Pine in The Night Manager, brings a captivating depth to Chuck. The film’s trailer hints at his remarkable versatility, portraying Chuck at various stages of his life – from an ordinary accountant on a business trip finding joy in an impromptu dance, to a boy navigating a supposedly haunted house under the guidance of his grandfather – played by the legendary Mark Hamill.

What makes The Life of Chuck a particularly intriguing Stephen King film is its departure from the author’s usual scares. While the backdrop of an impending global collapse might suggest a dystopian thriller, the narrative prioritizes human connection and the quiet beauty of an ordinary existence. King himself has expressed a desire to explore “joy as a valid part of the human experience,” and this novella, now a highly anticipated film, is a testament to that aspiration. Flanagan’s ability to extract the emotional core from King’s often fantastical premises is a perfect match for this material.

The film’s exploration of Chuck’s life through fragmented memories and seemingly disparate encounters creates a tapestry of human experience. As the world around them crumbles, characters like Marty Anderson (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a teacher baffled by the omnipresent “Thanks, Chuck!” billboards, and Felicia Gordon (Karen Gillan), his ex-wife working in a hospital, find their destinies inexplicably tied to Chuck’s journey. This emphasis on the “multitudes contained in all of us” and the ripple effect of one person’s existence makes The Life of Chuck a powerful contemplation on legacy and the often-unseen impact we have on others.

For Stephen King fans and newcomers alike, The Life of Chuck offers a compelling and emotionally rich narrative. It’s a testament to King’s enduring ability to craft stories that resonate deeply, regardless of genre. With Tom Hiddleston anchoring the complex portrayal of Chuck, and Mike Flanagan’s proven skill in adapting King’s unique voice, this film promises to be a standout, reminding us that even in the face of the unknown, the essence of a life well-lived leaves an indelible mark.