The late Canadian actor and comedian John Candy, remembered for his iconic roles in Uncle Buck, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Stripes, and Home Alone, is the subject of a new feature documentary titled “John Candy: I Like Me.” The film, directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, had its world premiere on September 4, 2025, as the opening night selection of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It is set to stream worldwide on Prime Video on October 10, 2025.
Candy died unexpectedly in 1994 at the age of 43 after suffering a heart attack. Despite his relatively short career, his body of work left a lasting imprint on audiences across the globe. The documentary aims to celebrate not only Candy’s comedic brilliance but also his human side—his struggles, vulnerabilities, and the warmth that made him so beloved.
Ryan Reynolds’ Challenge in Securing Bill Murray
While producing the film, Ryan Reynolds made it a priority to include contributions from John Candy’s closest collaborators. Among them was Bill Murray, who had shared the screen with Candy in the 1981 military comedy Stripes. Murray, however, is famously difficult to contact. For years, he avoided traditional agents and managers, preferring instead to use unusual methods of communication such as fax machines or a private 1-800 phone line.
Reynolds explained that, despite repeated efforts, he struggled to get Murray to commit to appearing in the documentary. Murray never outright declined, but he also avoided giving a definitive yes. As production deadlines loomed, Reynolds became increasingly anxious to secure his participation, recognizing the importance of Murray’s perspective in telling Candy’s story.
A Toddler’s Unexpected Role
In a moment of desperation, Reynolds decided to record a personal video message to send to Murray. Late at night, while working on the project, his toddler son Olin, whom he shares with his wife Blake Lively, wandered into the room wearing festive pajamas. Seizing the opportunity, Reynolds involved his son in the plea.
The child delivered a simple but emphatic request to Bill Murray to participate in the film. The combination of urgency and innocence resonated. The playful yet heartfelt message apparently struck a chord with Murray, who eventually agreed to contribute. This unusual intervention became a turning point in Reynolds’ effort to bring Murray on board.
Bill Murray’s Emotional Involvement
Bill Murray ultimately recorded an interview for the project. His appearance in the film’s trailer shows him visibly moved while reflecting on his late friend. Murray speaks candidly about Candy’s unique sense of humor, their time working together, and the personal loss he felt when Candy died suddenly in 1994.
His inclusion adds historical weight and emotional depth to the documentary. As someone who not only worked closely with Candy but also shared in the comedic explosion of the early 1980s, Murray’s testimony provides valuable insight into Candy’s impact on both his peers and the comedy world at large.
A Star-Studded and Personal Project
The documentary does not rely solely on Murray. It brings together a wide array of voices from Candy’s family, colleagues, and admirers. Contributions include:
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Tom Hanks, who co-starred with Candy in Splash (1983) and Volunteers (1985).
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Steve Martin, Candy’s co-star in Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
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Dan Aykroyd, his longtime friend and fellow Canadian comic.
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Catherine O’Hara and other SCTV alumni, who recall Candy’s groundbreaking years in sketch comedy.
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Macaulay Culkin, who worked with Candy in Home Alone.
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Mel Brooks, offering perspective on Candy’s versatility and legacy.
The film also includes contributions from Candy’s children, Jennifer and Chris Candy, who provide a rare look into their father’s private life and the challenges he faced away from the spotlight.
Beyond the Laughs: Exploring Candy’s Struggles
While Candy was known for his big-hearted comedic roles, the documentary also addresses the less visible aspects of his life. It touches on his struggles with anxiety, weight issues, and the pressures of fame. These elements provide a more rounded portrayal of a man who brought joy to millions but privately grappled with insecurities.
Reynolds himself has publicly connected with this aspect of Candy’s story, noting how he recognized elements of Candy’s emotional battles in his own experiences. This personal connection gave the project additional meaning for Reynolds as both a fan and a filmmaker.
TIFF Reception and Critical Response
The premiere at TIFF was met with a standing ovation, with many audience members moved to both laughter and tears. Critics praised the film for balancing reverence with honesty, though some noted it leaned more toward tribute than critique. The documentary avoids sensationalism, instead focusing on celebrating Candy’s contributions to entertainment and his enduring legacy as a kind, generous figure.
Media outlets described the film as heartfelt and nostalgic, with its use of rare archival footage and behind-the-scenes clips giving fans a deeper appreciation for Candy’s artistry. Early reviews emphasized that the film works not only as a biography but also as a reflection on how comedians use humor to mask personal pain.
Streaming and Availability
Following its festival debut, “John Candy: I Like Me” will be available to a global audience when it begins streaming on Prime Video on October 10, 2025. The platform is promoting the film as one of its major fall releases, positioning it as both a heartfelt tribute and a cultural event for fans of classic comedy.
The journey to create “John Candy: I Like Me” was marked by persistence, creativity, and even a child’s innocent appeal. Ryan Reynolds’ determination to include Bill Murray shows the respect both men held for Candy, whose career continues to inspire decades after his passing.
By blending emotional testimonies, archival treasures, and candid family memories, the documentary succeeds in portraying Candy not just as a comedy legend, but as a human being with joys and struggles. With its TIFF debut and upcoming Prime Video release, the film stands as a fitting tribute to a performer whose warmth and humor remain timeless.
