The Life of Chuck: Finding life in the midst of an apocalypse

We all imagine the end of the world differently.

For Marty Anderson, though, it is a reality. 

Marty gazes at the star-filled sky along with an unlikely friend. Slowly, just as the lights go out at the end of a show, the twinkling stars flicker and go out. It's the universe's sign that the show is over, and the end of the world is here. In the background of it all is Chuck's face, on every window and billboard. 

Director Mike Flanagan — who is also behind titles such as 'The Haunting of Hill House' — adapts Stephen King's brilliantly surreal and heart-warming short story, from the collection 'If It Bleeds' to life in the film 'The Life of Chuck'.

The film pairs sharp screenwriting with amazing performances from Tom Hiddleston, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Karen Gillan, Mia Sara, Carl Lumbly, Benjamin Pajak, Jacob Tremblay, and Mark Hamill. The narration by Nick Offerman adds to the film's storybook-like charm, making the audience feel as if they're reading a captivating novel. 

The film takes viewers on a journey through the life of Charles "Chuck" Krantz — but it begins at the end. The narrative follows Chuck as he navigates the world ending around him — volcanic eruptions, raging fires, and an internet blackout — blending King's signature style of horror and destruction with a tale full of humour and hope. 

With its non-linear structure and end-of-the-world plotline, it leaves viewers with more questions than answers. 

In the middle of all the chaos and collapse, the story asks one powerful question: What gives your life meaning?

In the face of extinction, this question is what the characters seek to answer for themselves. 

A central theme of the film is the role of art as a means of connection, nourishment, and perseverance. Chuck, played masterfully by Hiddleston, has a deep connection to dance, music, and philosophy—pursuits that guide his journey of self-discovery.

The setting offered the perfect opportunity for philosophical exploration, making it important for the movie to strike the right balance to avoid sounding overly preachy. A strong plot with a message that felt forced could have undermined the story's impact. 

Depicting Chuck as someone who loved dance from his school days set the perfect foundation for the commentary on the importance of art in life, even in the face of total destruction. 

Moreover, Chuck was aware of his fate from the very beginning — raising questions about how this knowledge would shape his outlook on life and whether it could alter the course of his journey. It gives the viewers a moment to reflect on whether they are living life to the fullest. 

Tom Hiddleston does a stellar job of portraying Chuck. He wears his emotions on his sleeves, ultimately making the audience feel connected to his character.

However, the unsung storytellers behind the scenes are the The Newton Brothers, the film's score composers. This subtle, calming symphony of piano and synth preserves the film's emotional depth and surreal tone, gently supporting its heavier themes without overwhelming the viewers — allowing space for quiet reflection.

The cinematography focuses on personal moments rather than solely on grand shots. The close-up shots linger on the actors' expressions and the extended one-on-one interactions. As characters grapple with existential questions we are often unprepared to confront, the visual proximity allows us a deeper glimpse into their minds. 

In doing so, the film encourages viewers to move beyond their own anxieties—a full-circle moment highlighting the transformative role of art in our lives.

The film beautifully reaffirms the magic and value of every life, no matter how small, fleeting, or grand — and regardless of how it ends.