14/27
A genre-bending life story based on Stephen King’s novel about three chapters in the life of an ordinary man named Charles Krantz. Tom Hiddleston, Karen Gillan, Chiwetel Ejiofor and David Dastmalchian have all appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, although none of them share a single scene together. Hiddleston is Loki and is most associated with the films Thor (2011) and the television series Loki (2021), Gillan is Nebula and is most associated with the films Verndarar Vetrarbrautinnarin (2014), Ejiofor is Baron Mordo from the films Doctor Strange (2016 ), while Dastmalchian is Kurt from the first 2 Ant-Man films and Veb in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023). Front row reference Flynn: SLEEPING DOGS: Karen Gillan, Adam Cooper, moderator Perri Nemiroff (2024). In short, Mike Flanagan has made a deep, multi-layered yet beautiful film about the value of life. It’s really hard to explain, but Flanagan doesn’t miss a beat. There is narration throughout the film, but right from the 'third act' everything seen and experienced unfolds perfectly in 'Act One.' Ejiofor & Gillan is fantastic in the third act, but if Chuck’s life is to be nominated for anything, it has to be the sound. From the cosmic elements in the 'third act' to the dance scenes in 'Act Two & One,' Flanagan did an exceptional job of fitting the sound throughout. Of course, everyone focused on Hiddleston and his character, but Tom even mentioned that it was really a team effort in the second act between Annalize Basso, Hiddleston’s dance partner in the second act, and Taylor Gordon (who is in the credits as the Pocket Queen), whistleblower, all three in combination with their choreographers Mandy Moore & Stephanie Powell really makes the dance scene sing. Taylor Gordon is a talent in her own right in her short but excellent role. What surprised me was how the first act was with young Chuck, and no one talks about how great the kids were. Their performances were just as brilliant as the adults, if not more so when young Chuck gets a very haunting monologue from his grandfather (the incredible Mark Hamill) about certain life choices. The first act really helps to piece together the puzzle that was Act Three, where the cosmic elements can be disgusting, but everything has a purpose. Stephen King is right when he says that Chuck’s life is one of the good ones. The spirit and energy are felt from beginning to end, and with all the performances that gave their all, Flanagan further established himself as one of the greatest contemporary directors. One thing I will say is that Chuck’s life is honored in In Memory of Scott Wampler. And there are a few cameos in Chuck’s life, but Scott’s inclusion really struck a chord with me. Great movie.
