The documentary John Candy: I Like Me offers an intimate and moving portrait of one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedic icons. Directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, the film premiered on September 4, 2025, as the opening-night selection at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and will stream worldwide on Prime Video starting October 10, 2025.
This celebratory documentary pulls from rare archival footage, personal recordings, and never-before-seen home videos, weaving together a story that not only honors Candy’s extraordinary career but also sheds light on his warmth and humanity. From his beginnings on Second City Television to unforgettable roles in Planes, Trains & Automobiles, Uncle Buck, and Cool Runnings, the film underscores Candy’s enduring impact on comedy and pop culture.
What sets John Candy: I Like Me apart is the emotional depth of its storytelling. Viewers hear candid reflections from Candy’s children, Jennifer and Christopher Candy, alongside heartfelt tributes from friends and collaborators like Tom Hanks, Bill Murray, Steve Martin, Conan O’Brien, Dan Aykroyd, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara. One of the most poignant moments comes from Macaulay Culkin, who recalls Candy’s kindness on the set of Uncle Buck. Culkin describes Candy as one of the rare adults who treated him with genuine respect and compassion, even discreetly checking in on his well-being during difficult times at home.
Behind the camera, the project carries the personal touch of filmmakers who deeply admire Candy. Reynolds and Hanks noted, “When you hear the name John Candy, your face lights up. He wasn’t just a great actor; he was an even better person.” This vision drives the documentary, blending entertainment history with a humanizing look at Candy’s struggles and triumphs.
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While Oscar chances remain uncertain given the Academy’s cautious approach to celebrity documentaries, John Candy: I Like Me has all the elements of an awards-season contender: emotional resonance, critical praise, and high-profile support. At its core, the film serves as a reminder of Candy’s ability to make audiences laugh while also touching hearts—a legacy that still resonates decades after his passing.
