Why are some of the funniest performers often the ones who left us in such heartbreaking ways? John Belushi, Chris Farley, Phil Hartman, John Ritter, and Robin Williams all left us way too early, some in tragic ways. John Candy: I Like Me documentary takes a look at the life and legacy of the legendary comedian John Candy, who passed away in 1994 from a heart attack in his sleep at just 43 years old.

It struck me while watching this that he died the exact same age as my late brother, who also died in his sleep from diabetic coma. My brother was a massive fan of Planes, Trains & Automobiles, and I remember watching that movie with him ages ago. I found out that his dad died from heart disease complications when he was just 35 in 1955, right on John’s fifth birthday. I also lost my mom on my birthday, my sweet 16 to be precise, and she was only 46 at that time. Sadly, his son Chris ended up losing a father at a young age as well; he was only 9 when Candy passed away.

Watching this film was really emotional for me, though truth be told, I didn’t really follow John Candy’s career, nor do I know much about him other than his iconic roles in Planes, Trains & Automobiles, which I rewatched a day after seeing this, and Home Alone. He’s one of those actors who always leave a lasting impression even in small, supporting roles. There’s the larger-than-life persona and sheer comedic talent, of course, but he’s also got the ability to shift gears as a performer that really takes me aback. The ‘I like me’ scene in Planes, Trains & Automobiles is one of those moments, hence it becomes the perfect title for a film about him. Just like Del Griffith, there’s a layer of vulnerability beneath that cheerful, optimistic outlook and sunny smile.

It’s interesting that Colin Hanks is the director of this documentary. He must have heard a ton of stories about the Canadian actor from his dad, Tom Hanks, who starred alongside Candy in Splash back in 1984. He also has a personal connection to Candy through childhood memories of meeting him. In the film, Tom recalls feeling a bit intimidated by Candy when he got cast in Splash since he was already a fan of his improv work with The Second City and SCTV. I had fun learning more about Candy from industry people who knew him well, like Dan Aykroyd, Mel Brooks, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Macaulay Culkin, etc.

It’s especially fun to hear from his fellow SCTV co-stars, Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara. I didn’t realize that before seeing this film that he and O’Hara were pals in their native Canada; it sure makes their scene in Home Alone even more meaningful. Bill Murray, the first talking head in the film, delivers his line in that classic deadpan way: ‘I wish I had more bad things to say about him.’ In both reality and on screen, Candy embodies humor, heart, humanity, humility, and authenticity.

Produced by fellow Canadian Ryan Reynolds, who honored Candy with an easter-egg scene in Deadpool, this documentary stands out as one of the most well-crafted, intriguing, captivating, and poignant documentaries of famous people. It’s got a nice blend of archival footage, private home videos, audio commentary, and various interviews. The talking heads are filmed in a comfortable, warm, and friendly way, and it is evident that everyone was delighted to participate as a means of honoring Candy.

One of the most moving moments is hearing from Candy’s own family: his widow, Rosemary Margaret Hobor, and his two kids, Jennifer and Christopher. I really appreciate how the movie goes deeper than just the actor’s public image, giving us a look at his real, human side, and the trauma he carried since losing his father. It also addressed his struggles with weight, which frequently became more of a topic for the media than his actual work. However, one thing is certain: he appears to have a positive impact on everyone he collaborates with.

He might not have lived a long life, but he made the most with the time he was given. The iconic funnyman brought joy and laughter to many, while also inspiring them to become better people through his craft. This documentary is undoubtedly created by and for his admirers, yet anyone who stumbles upon it will likely find it difficult not to appreciate, or even adore, John Candy.

Have you seen John Candy’s documentary? I’d love to hear what you think!

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