Celebrating John Candy: A Heartfelt Tribute to a Comedy Icon

The new documentary, John Candy: I Like Me, pays tribute to the beloved Canadian actor and comedian, who passed away at the young age of 43. Premiering on October 10, 2023, on Prime Video, the film explores Candy’s life and career, featuring a stellar lineup of collaborators and stars. While the documentary aims to celebrate Candy’s unique charm and comedic talent, it occasionally veers into overly sentimental territory.

Candy, a graduate of Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe, gained fame alongside contemporaries such as Dan Aykroyd, Catherine O’Hara, and Bill Murray. He became a household name through iconic films like Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Uncle Buck, and Stripes. His untimely death in 1994 was attributed to a heart attack linked to struggles with weight, smoking, and alcohol consumption, although the documentary notably downplays his past cocaine use.

The film’s title draws from a poignant moment in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, where Candy’s character asserts, “I like me, my wife likes me, my customers like me, ’cause I’m the real article.” This moment encapsulates the essence of Candy’s on-screen persona, yet the documentary risks oversimplifying the man behind the roles. Candy’s life was marked by complexities, including the tragic death of his father from a heart attack when Candy was just five years old.

Candy’s career took off when he was cast in Steven Spielberg‘s 1941, eventually leading to a fruitful collaboration with director John Hughes, who cast him in several successful films. Ron Howard also recognized Candy’s comedic talent, pairing him with Tom Hanks in the hit film Splash. The chemistry between the two actors remains a highlight of Candy’s filmography.

The documentary showcases Candy’s natural screen presence, characterized by an open and boyish charm. Yet, it also leaves viewers pondering whether Candy’s most memorable moments came from his films or his outrageous character Yellowbelly on SCTV, a cowardly cowboy known for his dark humor.

While John Candy: I Like Me offers a touching homage to the late actor, its solemn tone may not fully capture the vibrant spirit that endeared him to millions. For fans of Candy and newcomers alike, the documentary serves as both a celebration of his legacy and a reminder of the complexities behind his jovial facade.