John Candy, an iconic figure in comedy known for his lovable and larger-than-life persona, captured the hearts of audiences during the ’80s and ’90s. His infectious humor shined through in his performances on SCTV and in groundbreaking films such as Splash, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and National Lampoon’s Vacation. Earlier this month at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the world premiere of the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, celebrated this beloved Canadian talent. The atmosphere at the premiere was filled with affection, illustrating the enduring legacy Candy left behind.
The newly released trailer offers a glimpse into the film, showcasing Candy as a cherished entertainer who thrived on making others laugh. Speaking in the documentary are fellow comedians and friends including Eugene Levy, Dan Aykroyd, Martin Short, and Steve Martin, who share personal anecdotes about Candy both on and off-screen. While the film highlights his joyous spirit, it also delves into the struggles he faced, revealing a more complex side where Candy battled personal demons tied to tragedy and stress, ultimately leading to his untimely death at the age of 43—a loss that many continue to grapple with.
In my review of the documentary, I noted, “As somber and melancholic as the film can be, it’s mainly just a loving tribute to John Candy and leaves you wanting to go back and revisit some of his best work.”
“John Candy: I Like Me” provides an in-depth exploration of the comedian’s life, featuring never-before-seen home videos and heartfelt insights from his family and collaborators. This documentary not only celebrates Candy’s contributions as a performer but also paints an intimate picture of him as a husband, father, and friend who endeavored to spread joy amidst the pressures of fame.
The documentary is set to be available for streaming on Prime Video starting October 10th, offering fans a chance to reconnect with the humor and heart of a true comedic legend.