For many of us who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, John Candy was a household name. His presence on screen always brought warmth, humor, and a sense of humanity that made him stand out among comedians of his generation. Now, with the release of the new documentary John Candy: I Like Me, we finally get the chance to take a deeper look into his life, career, and legacy. If you’ve ever laughed at one of his unforgettable performances—or been touched by the kindness that seemed to radiate from him—you’ll want to watch the trailer and make plans to see this film.

A Canadian Treasure with Universal Appeal

Born in Newmarket, Ontario, John Candy was proud of his Canadian roots, but his humor and personality transcended borders. His rise to fame came through the legendary comedy troupe Second City Television (SCTV), where he quickly distinguished himself with memorable characters and impeccable comedic timing. From there, Hollywood welcomed him, and audiences around the world embraced his charm.

Candy wasn’t just another funny man. He had an everyman quality that made people feel like they knew him personally. Whether he was playing the bumbling uncle, the reluctant hero, or the loyal sidekick, he gave each role depth and heart.

Iconic Roles We’ll Never Forget

When I think about John Candy, a few roles instantly come to mind. Who could forget him as Uncle Buck, the hilariously unfiltered guardian whose heart was always in the right place? Or as the overly talkative but lovable Del Griffith in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, where his chemistry with Steve Martin created one of the most beloved comedies of all time?

Then there’s Spaceballs, where Candy transformed into Barf, the half-man, half-dog who stole scenes with his wit and loyalty. Even his brief role in Home Alone—as the kindhearted “Polka King of the Midwest”—left a lasting impression.

Candy had a way of balancing humor with sincerity. He made us laugh, but he also made us care about his characters. That’s a rare gift, and one reason why he is still remembered so fondly decades after his passing.

A Kind Soul Behind the Comedy

What made John Candy special wasn’t just his talent on screen. By all accounts, he was a genuinely kind and generous person off screen as well. His colleagues often describe him as humble, down-to-earth, and someone who always tried to make others feel good. In a world where celebrity egos can dominate, Candy’s warmth set him apart.

The title of the documentary, I Like Me, reflects one of the most powerful moments from his career. It comes from a line in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, where Del Griffith reminds us that despite his quirks, he’s comfortable in his own skin: “I like me. My wife likes me. My customers like me.” That message—about self-acceptance and kindness—captures the essence of John Candy as both a performer and a person.

Why You Should Watch

John Candy: I Like Me promises to celebrate his legacy while also showing us the man behind the laughter. It’s not just a trip down memory lane for fans of his movies—it’s also a reminder of the impact one kind, funny person can have on the world.

If you remember laughing until your sides hurt during one of his films, or if you want to discover why John Candy continues to inspire new generations, this documentary is a must-watch. Check out the trailer, and then set aside time to watch the full film. It’s a chance to laugh, to remember, and maybe even to shed a tear for a talent gone too soon.

Synopsis

Final Thoughts

John Candy was more than a comedian. He was a storyteller, a character actor with depth, and above all, a good human being. The world may have lost him too early, but through his films and now this documentary, his spirit continues to live on.