2025 has already introduced an exhilarating slate for horror enthusiasts, highlighted by notable films such as the genre-fusing romantic comedy slasher Heart Eyes, the gore-laden Stephen King adaptation The Monkey, and Ryan Coogler’s visually breathtaking vampire story, Sinners. However, the most surprising addition to this year’s horror-adjacent selections is The Life of Chuck — a film that, despite its esteemed creators, isn’t truly a horror film at all.

Helmed by horror expert Mike Flanagan and inspired by a novella from Stephen King, The Life of Chuck signifies a shift from their previous spine-chilling collaborations, Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep. Rather than delivering heart-pounding dread, this film presents a touching reflection on existence, affection, and the grace of letting go. Narrated in three linked segments, it chronicles the life of an everyday man named Chuck (portrayed by Tom Hiddleston) and the remarkable influence he exerts on those around him.

With an impressive ensemble cast featuring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Annalise Basso, Benjamin Pajak, Karen Gillan, Mia Sara, Matthew Lillard, Carl Lumbly, Samantha Sloyan, Harvey Guillén, Jacob Tremblay, Kate Siegel, and Mark Hamill, the film brings Chuck’s universe to life in vivid detail.

Making its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival last autumn, The Life of Chuck garnered rave early reviews. Mashable highlighted the film, calling it “a perfect union of Mike Flanagan and Stephen King’s skills, but not in the manner you might anticipate.” The critique elaborated, “Certain films truly merit being experienced in a large theater, amidst an audience — a community — connected through the exhilarating journey of cinematic art, and The Life of Chuck is among those.”

RELATED: Every single Stephen King movie adaptation, ranked

Naturally, since this is still a Stephen King narrative, while The Life of Chuck leans more toward the emotional depth found in The Shawshank Redemption or Stand By Me rather than the horror of It or Carrie, it doesn’t entirely evade unsettling or thrilling moments. Although horror aficionados might not define it as a classic fright-fest, they’re likely to discover much to admire in its haunting atmosphere and emotional substance.

The Life of Chuck hits theaters on June 6.