Michael's Movie Grade: A+
A pure masterpiece.
This film marks one of the best Steven King movie adaptations, which is no light praise. Though best known for his horror work, King is a very diverse writer, whose talents go beyond just scaring someone and nowhere is this clearer than in the author's non-horror works. This is what the masterful filmmaker Mike Flanagan perfectly conveys in this adaption of a non-horror short story from King. Flanagan is also an artist who is best known for his work in horror and has already made an adaption of one of King's horror stories, Doctor Sleep (2019). Though three connected stories The Life of Chuck explores some complex existential themes and the first of these stories is rather abstract in its storytelling (the other two stories are much more straightforward). Yet what makes this film work is that it never comes off as pretentious or artsy. The focus is instead on the characters and the human experience. Because of this what could have come off as cold and experimental instead is emotionally gripping from start to finish. The characters feel completely real to us and their experiences (no matter how abstract the film may get) are instantly relatable. The honesty of these experiences will ring true to anyone who has experienced even the most basic parts of life (starting with those of childhood). Though the movie may ask big questions, it focuses on life's smallest moments and finds the beauty and power in each of them. Adding to all this is a sharp and often hilarious sense of humor, a gorgeous visual style, a sweet and likable romance and a wonderful cast.
If I have been vague as to what this film is about or what themes it explores that is because it is best to go into this film not knowing much about the story or its themes. It is best simply to go in with an open mind that is willing to let the movie's magic take you by surprise and wash over you.
This is simply a must see.
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