Matthew Lillard teases his appearance in Mike Flanagan’s first non-horror work, Chuck’s life. Adapted from the 2020 Stephen King novel If it bleeds, Chuck’s life stars Tom Hiddleston in the title role along with Mark Hamill, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Karen Gillan and Jacob Tremblay. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, but has not yet received a worldwide distribution date. Lillard plays a construction worker who finds peace amid the chaos of a world that is falling apart.
Lillard offers some tips for GamesRadar+ about his minor role. Although Gus only appears for a five-minute scene, the actor finds the character “beautiful” why Gus”packs a whole handful of humanity“during his limited appearance, triggering the character’s ability to “shift the film to an emotional place.” Lillard reveals that he was drawn to the film because it resonated with the experience of an outcast, being “what the world needs.”He watched the crowd”laughing a lot” during his initial appearance. Check out what he said below:
I play the most rudimentary man ever named Gus. And he is beautiful. I think he’s funny. I think the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. I had never seen this with a large audience. I had seen it in a small screening room. I think we were all surprised that people were laughing so much.
And here comes my character, and what I love about him is that he packs a smattering of humanity into a little 5-minute scene and it’s a piece of work that I’m very proud of. But beyond that, I think it really shifts the film into an emotional place. And I’m excited for people to see Gus and experience this movie, because I think the movie is what the world needs in a lot of ways right now.
You know, [Mike] and I are friends. A mutual friend introduced us. We had a traditional Hollywood lunch that lasted 3 hours. You know, that doesn’t happen. And we got along really well. I feel like we both got into this because we’re outcasts. In the same way that we are more interested in being in the company of other creatives than in being successful or famous or whatever.
When I did Life of Chuck, he called me and said, I want you to consider this part. And I thought, I would do it. I just want to be in your world. Um, and that started it. And within that, you know, I find familiar spirits.
What does this mean for Gus in Chuck’s life?
Gus appears at a crucial point
Chuck’s lifeCharles Krantz’s story tells life in reverse, from his death at age 39 from a brain tumor to his early childhood. Although King is most famous for his work in the horror genre, the novelist produced many iconic non-horror works, including The green miles and The running man. Chuck’s life bleeds supernatural elements into the drama, making it a relatable and memorable story. Lillard’s comment explains it better how Gus is tied to the film’s theme, being a man who changes perspectives and transforms history into an emotional space.
Even though his character is only five minutes into the film Gus plays a crucial role in moving the story in the right direction. Instead of being dull and forgettable, Gus’ character will be rich and impactful. The actor’s comment also seems to indicate that his scene will serve as a pivotal moment in the Stephen King adaptation. Since Gus is a construction worker, he will likely appear at the beginning of the film while the world is in the midst of an apocalypse, including sinkholes that are destroying the city where the audience will meet him.
Our take on Chuck’s life
It’s unexpected and emotional
Chuck’s life ends early. Dealing with a terminal illness is also an overwhelming experience. Although the film tells a heavy story, Lillard’s comment suggests that Flanagan’s treatment of the story is not heavy. Instead, Chuck’s story is filled with humor and meaningful moments. Judging by what the actor says, Chuck’s life will not fail to establish a genuine emotional connection with viewers. The story is ultimately uplifting and a celebration of life, something that will likely translate to the screen.
Chuck’s life is horror director Mike Flanagan’s first non-horror film. It will certainly contain some horror elements with the inclusion of supernatural occurrences, but it will be very different from Flanagan’s previous works. The film has already had a fabulous first round of reviews, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 85% critical approval.
Source: GameRadar+