Toronto Film Festival Celebrates Comedy Legend John Candy in 50th Show

Photo:Reuters

Toronto, Ontario – The city of Toronto is glowing with excitement as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) celebrates its 50th edition. This year, the festival began with a heartwarming and nostalgic tribute to one of Canada’s most loved comedians, John Candy, through the premiere of a new documentary titled “John Candy: I Like Me.”

The documentary instantly captured the attention of attendees, including Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, who joined the audience to honor the legendary comedian. As the film rolled, the audience laughed out loud at Candy’s unforgettable comedic performances and also felt the emotional weight of his personal struggles, ranging from anxiety to societal pressures about his body image. The premiere was a rollercoaster of emotions, showing both the joy Candy brought to millions and the challenges he quietly faced behind the scenes.

Candy first rose to fame through his performances on the Canadian sketch comedy show Second City Television (SCTV), where his larger-than-life characters and impeccable timing made him a household name. He later achieved international fame in Hollywood, starring in beloved films such as Splash, Stripes, and the holiday classic Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. His unique ability to blend physical comedy with heartfelt emotion made him a comedian who was relatable to audiences worldwide.

This year, TIFF’s focus on Candy also carries a broader cultural meaning. With ongoing tensions between Canada and the United States, including trade disputes and political disagreements, Canadians have been increasingly drawn to home-grown entertainment. Prime Minister Carney spoke at the premiere about the importance of Canadian identity, joking that Canadians “channel their inner John Candy” to rise above challenges and create their own stories. He referred to Candy’s satirical portrayal of the fictional mayor of Melonville on SCTV as his first “political inspiration,” a moment that drew laughter and applause from the crowd.

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“In Canada, our identity and sovereignty matter,” Carney said. “When faced with threats, Canadians have stood tall, created their own art, and celebrated our own talents. John Candy showed us how humor and heart can guide us through difficult times.”

The documentary was directed by Colin Hanks, who brings a careful and loving perspective to Candy’s life story, and produced by Canadian superstar Ryan Reynolds, who has a long history of supporting Canadian film projects. The film uses a mix of archival footage, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories to paint a full picture of Candy’s career and personal life. Co-stars and close friends like Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Bill Murray, and Macaulay Culkin share anecdotes that reveal not just Candy’s talent but also his generosity, kindness, and humor off-screen.

Candy’s personal struggles are also a major focus of the documentary. He battled anxiety and faced harsh judgments about his body, highlighting the pressure that public figures often endure. Hanks explained, “The things Candy struggled with were struggles we all face in different ways. He was the ultimate ‘everyman,’ and that is what made him so relatable.” Reynolds paid tribute by wearing a Canada-themed outfit, including a T-shirt and blazer embroidered with the coordinates of Newmarket, Ontario, Candy’s hometown, showing deep respect for the comedian’s roots.

The documentary, which will be available for streaming on Prime Video in October, aims not only to entertain but also to educate audiences about Candy’s influence. Beyond the laughter, it brings attention to important social issues, such as body image and mental health, emphasizing how even the most celebrated public figures are human and face personal challenges.

TIFF 2025 itself is a major event for the city of Toronto and the global film community. Founded in 1976, the festival has become one of the most influential in the world, providing a platform for both Canadian and international filmmakers. Over its 50-year history, TIFF has premiered hundreds of films that have gone on to critical acclaim, awards, and box-office success. This year’s festival comes at a moment when Canadians are embracing their cultural heritage more than ever, making the celebration of a home-grown star like John Candy especially meaningful.

The opening of TIFF with this documentary also reflects the broader role of film in society. Movies are not just entertainment; they capture cultural values, historical moments, and emotional truths. Candy’s work, which spans both comedic brilliance and poignant human moments, represents the best of what Canadian cinema can offer: humor, heart, and an enduring sense of identity.

Audience reactions at the premiere showed that Candy’s legacy is alive and well. Many laughed until tears rolled down their faces, while others were moved by the honesty of his personal journey. Carney’s presence and comments further highlighted the connection between national pride and cultural celebration. As Canada faces global challenges, events like TIFF and tributes to icons like Candy remind the nation of its talent, resilience, and creativity.

In addition to celebrating Candy, TIFF 2025 features dozens of films from around the world, workshops for filmmakers, and special panels on topics like diversity in cinema, the future of streaming, and the role of film in social change. The festival has become a meeting point for artists, critics, and audiences, offering a mix of entertainment, inspiration, and education.

For John Candy fans, the documentary is more than just a film; it’s a reunion with a beloved figure whose humor shaped a generation. It reminds people why Candy remains relevant decades after his untimely passing at age 43 in 1994. Whether viewers are revisiting his classic roles or learning about his life for the first time, “John Candy: I Like Me” ensures that the comedian’s spirit, laughter, and lessons continue to inspire new audiences around the world.

The 50th Toronto International Film Festival has chosen a perfect opening act with a tribute to John Candy. By celebrating his life, addressing the social issues he faced, and highlighting the pride of Canadian talent, TIFF 2025 starts with laughter, reflection, and national pride—a fitting homage to a comedy legend who continues to touch hearts everywhere.