Anna Daniels
Mike Flanagan’s film The Life of Chuck surprised many by winning the TIFF People’s Choice Award, outshining notable competitors such as Emilia Perez and Anora. Adapted from short stories in Stephen King’s 2020 book If It Bleeds, the film has sparked a mix of opinions among critics but has managed to engage audiences, making its victory particularly intriguing. With this award, the question remains: Can Chuck continue its success on the path to the Oscars?
The TIFF People’s Choice Award has historically been a strong indicator of success during awards season. Over the last 14 years, 12 of the winners have received Best Picture nominations at the Oscars, and four films, including 12 Years a Slave and Nomadland, have won the top award. Although The Life of Chuck may not initially seem like a frontrunner for the Oscars based on critical reviews, the TIFF audience recognized something exceptional in Flanagan’s poignant story.
Featuring Tom Hiddleston as Chuck, alongside a stellar cast that includes Mark Hamill, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Karen Gillan, and Jacob Tremblay, the film unfolds in reverse chronology. Starting from Chuck’s death and retracing his life, it culminates in a poignant glimpse of his childhood as an orphan in a purportedly haunted house. This unique narrative style has received praise for its emotional depth and thematic significance.
Despite its mixed critical reception, the film boasts a respectable 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while its Metacritic score of 66 indicates that not all critics are on board. Personally, I find The Life of Chuck to be an inventive yet sentimental film. It represents Flanagan’s most heartfelt creation, which may contribute to the differing opinions—it’s more touching than terrifying.
While die-hard fans of Flanagan appear to favor the film’s emotional aspects, the question is whether Oscar voters will also appreciate it. Only time will reveal if Chuck will leverage its TIFF success into significant awards recognition. One thing is clear: the film’s genuine storytelling has made it a favorite among audiences, and with proper marketing, it may reach even wider viewership in the months ahead.
