Discover John Candy’s Legacy and Second City Impact in a Revealing New Documentary

John Candy’s Enduring Legacy Explored in New Documentary
Chicago’s Iconic Venues Celebrate John Candy
John Candy, renowned for his unforgettable characters across numerous movies, remains a beloved figure in the comedy world. His legacy is celebrated in the new documentary, “John Candy: I Like Me,” directed by Colin Hanks. On October 8, 2023, the Chicago Theatre, a historical landmark, will host a special screening and Q&A session with actor Ryan Reynolds, who produced the film, ahead of its release on Prime Video on October 10.
A Comedic Legend with Chicago Roots
Although a Canadian native, Candy’s influence was deeply felt in the Chicago comedy scene. A graduate of the Second City Toronto, Candy trained alongside other legends such as Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Bill Murray. His collaborations with filmmaker John Hughes, including “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” further solidified his connection to Chicago. The documentary delves into Candy’s extensive career, which was tragically curtailed when he passed away at the age of 43 in 1994.
The Impact of John Candy: Personal Accounts
In creating the documentary, Ryan Reynolds, also Canadian, gained approval from the Candy family to produce a work that features insights from Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, Macaulay Culkin, Catherine O’Hara, and other Hollywood stars. Long-time collaborator Kelly Leonard from The Second City highlights Candy’s enduring impact on comedy with his joy-filled performances, humor, and robust character roles that made audiences laugh and relate to him.
- Parole officer in “The Blues Brothers”
- “Polka King of the Midwest” in “Home Alone”
- Title role in “Uncle Buck”
Family Reflections and Documenting a Complex Life
Candy’s children, Chris and Jennifer, reflect on their father’s significant contributions to film and his struggle with personal challenges. Chris recalls his father’s insecurities and longing for reassurance regarding his career. Jennifer appreciates his dedicated dramatic portrayal in “JFK,” signifying Candy’s versatility as an actor.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from addressing the actor’s struggles with health, anxiety, and public perceptions of his weight, offering a poignant look into his life. According to Leonard, the film serves as a reminder of Candy’s humor, his ability to bring laughter, and his lasting influence on the entertainment industry.