John Candy: I Like Me Review – A Heartfelt Look at the Beloved Actor

Colin Hanks and Ryan Reynolds celebrate a legend in John Candy: I Like Me.

I can’t pinpoint the exact moment John Candy entered my life, but I know the first time I saw him on my television set, I was instantly hooked. His warmth, humor, and humanity radiated through the screen. To this day, Uncle Buck and Planes, Trains, and Automobiles remain two of my top ten favorite films of all time. I can never flip the channel when they come on, and I always hit “play” without hesitation when I see them on a streamer. Those films aren’t just comedies—they are John Candy himself, laid bare, genuine, and unforgettable.

The Documentary That Pulls Back the Curtain

Watching John Candy: I Like Me—twice over, in fact—reminded me just how much I didn’t know about my favorite actor. At the same time, it reaffirmed why I’ve always been such a devoted fan. Director Colin Hanks and producer Ryan Reynolds crafted something deeply special, weaving together a narrative that captures Candy’s brilliance, his struggles, and the too-short journey of his life.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from the darkness Candy faced: overwork, body image issues, public scrutiny of his size, relentless anxiety, and the trauma of losing his father on his fifth birthday. Yet, it balances these hardships with heartfelt stories, archival footage, and the loving recollections of those who knew him best.

Voices of Admiration

Hearing Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, and Macaulay Culkin share their stories about Candy was moving beyond words. Their memories painted a vivid portrait of a man beloved not only for his talent but for his kindness and generosity. His wife and children offered moving insights, showing that beyond the fame and laughter, John Candy was first and foremost a devoted husband and father.

The inclusion of never-before-seen archival footage made this documentary especially raw and authentic. It felt personal, as if Candy himself was reaching through time to remind us of who he was—flawed, vulnerable, but endlessly human.

A Storied Career

Candy’s career remains one of the brightest in comedy history. From his breakout work on SCTV alongside comedy greats to scene-stealing turns in Stripes and Splash, he quickly became a household name. His versatility shined in cult favorites like Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs and his unforgettable cameo as the polka band leader in Home Alone.

In 1983, Candy played the flustered security guard at Walley World in National Lampoon’s Vacation, helping the comedy classic end on a hilarious high note. Just two years later, he took the lead in Summer Rental (1985), a hidden gem that gave him the chance to shine as a stressed-out dad trying to relax on vacation, further cementing his ability to carry a film with both humor and heart.

In 1993, Candy brought warmth and sincerity to Cool Runnings, playing the coach of the Jamaican bobsled team, a role that remains one of his most beloved. He also delivered laughs in films such as The Great Outdoors, Brewster’s Millions, Armed and Dangerous, and Who’s Harry Crumb?, each proving his rare ability to mix big comedy with genuine emotion.

Collaboration with John Hughes

Candy also shared a powerful creative partnership with director John Hughes, whose stories of everyday people often paired perfectly with Candy’s humor and heart. Together, they created some of the most memorable films of the 1980s, and it was Hughes who gave Candy two of his most iconic roles.

But it is his signature performances in Uncle Buck and Planes, Trains, and Automobiles that endure as perfect showcases of his heart and humor. Candy’s characters often balanced slapstick hilarity with deep humanity, making audiences laugh even as they wiped away tears.

Candy left us far too soon in 1994 at the age of 43, but his impact is everlasting. His body of work continues to inspire new generations of fans, proving that great comedy is truly timeless.

Emotional Resonance

For me, the documentary struck a personal chord. As I watched Candy battle anxiety and lean on vices to cope, I couldn’t help but relate to those struggles in my own life. More than once, I held back tears. It was comforting and heartbreaking all at once—proof of how much Candy still means to his fans all these years later.

Verdict

John Candy: I Like Me is a moving, unflinching, and heartfelt celebration of one of cinema’s most beloved figures. It debuts globally on Prime Video on October 10, 2025, and it’s a must-watch for anyone who has ever laughed—or cried—because of John Candy.

---

Read more Reviews on Nerdtropolis and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube.