“I Like Me” Documentary Reveals John Candy’s Humanity and Hollywood Struggles
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A new documentary now streaming on Prime Video offers an intimate look at the life and career of John Candy, the beloved comedic actor whose influence continues to resonate with performers today. “I Like Me,” directed by Colin Hanks, explores the Canadian star’s rise to fame, his personal demons, and the discrimination he faced in Hollywood.
For a generation raised on 1980s and 90s comedies, Candy’s name is synonymous with laughter. From breakout roles in films like The Blues Brothers and Mom, I Missed the Plane! to his memorable performance in Rasta Rocket, Candy became a box office staple. However, the documentary reveals a more complex portrait of the man behind the smile.
A Legacy Cut Short
Candy’s career was tragically cut short on March 4, 1994, when he died of a heart attack at the age of 43. More than three decades later, his impact on comedy remains undeniable. “I Like Me” delves into Candy’s journey, tracing his beginnings with the renowned comedy troupe Second City alongside talents like Dan Aykroyd, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara.
The film doesn’t shy away from the more difficult aspects of Candy’s life. The untimely death of his father at age 35 is presented as a foreshadowing of his own premature passing. But perhaps the most striking revelation concerns the discrimination Candy endured due to his weight.
Facing Hollywood’s Bias
Candy reportedly feared losing roles if he lost weight, as he was largely typecast in roles as clumsy sidekicks. Excerpts from past television interviews reveal the discomfort and humiliation he experienced when interviewers fixated on his physical appearance.
“I was shocked at how these journalists treated him,” Candy’s son, Chris Candy, shared in the documentary, as reported by People. “It broke my heart. And I was able to see how embarrassed he was by these situations, and how he had to learn to live with that.”
Director Colin Hanks echoed this sentiment, describing the sequences as “difficult to watch.” He noted that the interviews reflect a different era, where such commentary was commonplace, but would be unacceptable today. Ryan Reynolds, a producer on the documentary, even revealed he confronted one of the journalists after viewing the footage.
A Poignant Reflection on Hollywood
“I Like Me” paints a poignant and intimate portrait of a comedic icon, while simultaneously offering a critical examination of the Hollywood system. The documentary serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by performers and the damaging effects of societal biases.
For those who grew up enjoying John Candy’s films, “I Like Me” promises a viewing experience that is both tender and deeply nostalgic. The documentary is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.
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