The initial trailer for The Life of Chuck has arrived – and I’m prepared to be emotionally shattered.
Crafted by Mike Flanagan, who also directs, this film is based on Stephen King’s 2020 novella of the same name. Marvel actor Tom Hiddleston stars as Charles ‘Chuck’ Krantz, appearing in the trailer as both an adult and a younger child in a few fleeting moments. Even in the absence of context, it’s easy to see that this film is set to be heart-wrenching. With additional context, given that the narrative commences at the end of Chuck’s life, it’s clear we may find ourselves in tears possibly halfway through. Check out the brief clip below.
The core concept of the story and the film unfolds in reverse against the backdrop of societal disintegration and catastrophic occurrences. We encounter Chuck at different points in his life in a touching and emotional thriller – one that left star Karen Gillan in tears for days. While it may not be what we typically expect from horror maestros Flanagan and King, the trailer alone has us intrigued.
The impressive cast features Star Wars icon Mark Hamill, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Matthew Lillard, Jacob Tremblay, and Nick Offerman.
The Life of Chuck Teaser Trailer (2025) – YouTube
The film has already been shown to critics, having its global premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. There, it secured the People’s Choice Award along with some remarkable initial reviews.
Currently holding a score of 85% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 40 critiques, reviewers have lauded it as authentic and life-affirming. Even King himself is supportive, tweeting in 2024: “The Life of Chuck premieres tomorrow evening at the Toronto Film Festival. This is one of the outstanding ones. It’s melancholic, contains a hint of the supernatural, but it’s also uplifting and life-affirming. Perhaps not what you would anticipate from me, but there you go.”
The Life of Chuck is scheduled for release on June 6, 2025. For more, check out our guides to other upcoming films and upcoming horror films.