John Candy Documentary "I Like Me" to Premiere at 50th Toronto International Film Festival
TIFF’s 50th anniversary kicks off with the world premiere of “John Candy: I Like Me,” a heartfelt documentary celebrating the life and legacy of beloved Canadian comic John Candy.
The upcoming Toronto International Film Festival will open its milestone 50th edition with the world premiere of a highly anticipated documentary chronicling the remarkable life and career of beloved Canadian comic John Candy. The film, titled “John Candy: I Like Me”, promises to offer an intimate look at the man behind some of comedy’s most iconic roles, drawing from never-before-seen home videos and heartfelt accounts that cast light on his roles as a son, husband, father, and friend, as well as his personal struggles and experiences in Hollywood.
Directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, the documentary is said to capture both Candy’s stardom and his humanity. In a joint statement, Hanks and Reynolds praised Candy, referencing his early days on SCTV, describing him as not only a brilliant actor but an even better person. The film aims to celebrate Candy’s comedic genius while exploring the pressures and inner demons he faced throughout his career.
John Candy became a household name through hit films such as Uncle Buck, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Cool Runnings, and Splash—the latter marking a pivotal moment alongside Tom Hanks, Colin Hanks’ father. His jovial presence and heartwarming performances endeared him to audiences around the world, solidifying his place in the pantheon of comedy greats. Tragically, Candy’s life was cut short at age 43 when he suffered a fatal heart attack in Mexico in 1994 while working on a film, leaving a lasting legacy cherished by colleagues and fans alike.
John Candy: I Like Me is set to make its world debut on September 4 at the festival, before reaching a wider audience through Prime Video later this fall. The 50th anniversary of the Toronto International Film Festival runs from September 4 to 14, marking half a century of cinematic celebration in Candy’s native city.
“We love that John’s global career started in Toronto, and we can’t wait to share ‘John Candy: I Like Me’ with everyone at this year’s opening night gala premiere,” stated TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey. He described the film as “hugely entertaining” and full of Hollywood’s biggest stars, but, above all, a movie that embodies the heart that Candy himself brought to his work and relationships. Bailey emphasized that the documentary was the perfect selection to launch the festival’s landmark year, honoring both the city’s contributions to comedy and one of its most cherished sons.
