I liked, but did not love John Candy: I Like Me. The documentary features an array of interesting interviews, nuggets, and archival moments about the Canadian actor and comedian who died suddenly in 1994 at the age of 43. But the construct, overall, is lacking. It doesn’t gel in the way Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story did last year. Regardless, Candy is certainly deserving of a cinematic remembrance and tribute, and after watching the documentary, I am keen to revisit his classic movies (especially Trains, Planes and Automobiles) and to scour YouTube for my favorite skits from the brilliant comedy series SCTV. Johnny LaRue! (IYKYK)
The documentary does provide a never-before-seen look at John Candy’s backstory and his life off-camera, through the lens of those who knew him best, including his wife and two kids, and friends/co-stars Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Andrea Martin, Steve Martin, McCauley Culkin, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short and Eugene Levy. They describe a guy who was sweet, funny, genuine and talented, and also burdened by anxiety. His father had died of a heart attack at age 35, on John’s fifth birthday. That loss influenced his legacy.
If you were around to see Candy’s talents on display in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, then it’s certainly worth checking out the documentary, directed by Colin Hanks. It’s easy to see why so many people did indeed like him.
John Candy: I Like Me debuts globally on Prime Video on October 10.