Mike Flanagan is a unique filmmaker and storyteller who has a unique relationship to Stephen King. In the past, Flanagan has adapted some of his classic works like Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep. That makes sense as Flanagan, whether in adaptation or original works, has been adept at creating darkly moving horror stories.

So, on paper, seeing Flanagan adapt another King story in The Life of Chuck makes sense. But this isn’t a classic King horror story. It’s something more engaging and life-affirming, and it makes for an even more dynamic pairing.

The film is based on King’s Novella of the same name contained in his collection If It Bleeds. It’s a story told in three acts and this film adaptation follows the same. It has three acts and adapts the same story of Charles “Chuck” Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). But it does so in a unique way.

The film begins with the world in crisis. We meet various people, including teacher Marty Anderson (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and his ex-wife Felicia (Karen Gillan). They are grappling with what’s coming, what matters most in life, and who this Charles Krantz might be.

In a bit, we’re introduced to Chuck. He’s a mild-mannered man living what seems like an ordinary but happy life. As he passes a street musician, he’s prompted to move. He dances with joy and freedom, drawing quite a crowd on the streets.

Later, we see Chuck’s early life. He’s raised by his grandfather (Mark Hamill) and grandmother (Mia Sara) and learns about the value of life and each individual. Through a series of circumstances, he also learns a secret that has the potential to impact the rest of his life.

This film has a simple premise, a great cast, and an engaging story. The choice of how to adapt it is fascinating, but it works in dynamic fashion with this film. We begin at the end and seemingly end at the beginning. That might be distracting for some or might not work for all viewers, but I found it captivating and deeply moving.

This feels like a very deep and personal film for Flanagan, and that comes across beautifully on the screen. The cast give strong performances but it’s the production that stands out. There are some gorgeous shots in the first section of the film and some deeply emotional moments throughout. The closing scene does a profound job of bringing it all together and giving you plenty to chew on.

I enjoyed the performances, too. Hamill does a beautiful job as Albie in the third section. Hiddleston brings such vivacity and joy to the middle section. And Ejiofor and Gillan were delightful in the early section. All of it adds to the depth and meaning of the piece.

King is renowned for his horror stories, but he’s also given us some of the most profound explorations of life and hope. Films like Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, and Stand By Me continue to move and impact audiences. Thanks to Flanagan’s beautiful film, I foresee The Life of Chuck joining their company in the years to come.

The film opened in limited release on June 6 and opens nationwide on Friday, June 13.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.