The highly anticipated John Candy: I Like Me documentary, produced by Ryan Reynolds, is scheduled to open the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 4, according to the latest announcement from festival organizers. This world premiere at TIFF celebrates the comic legend in his hometown and sets the stage for the festival’s landmark 50th edition, making the Ryan Reynolds produced John Candy documentary TIFF 2025 premiere a significant event for audiences and the festival alike.
Heartfelt Approach to Celebrating a Canadian Comedy Icon
Directed by Colin Hanks, John Candy: I Like Me is described as
a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Canadian icon, with stories and memories from Candy’s family, closest friends, and longtime collaborators.
This creative tribute brings together a mix of never-before-seen home footage, intimate family insights, and personal reflections from collaborators, offering a comprehensive portrait of Candy’s vibrant spirit and wide impact across film and television.
In a joint statement, producers Reynolds and Hanks remarked,
When you hear the name John Candy, your face lights up. He wasn’t just a great actor; he was an even better person,
and they added that
People loved his everyman qualities, but they didn’t know how relatable John really was. He went through the same struggles we all do, except now we talk about them. We are incredibly honored to have gotten to know the man better through this process and to bring the real John Candy to audiences starting with his hometown of Toronto.
—Ryan Reynolds and Colin Hanks, Producers
TIFF Organizers Embrace a Star-Packed, Heartfelt Tribute
Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, highlighted the significance of launching the festival with this film, saying,
Comedy fans all over the world grew up on John Candy’s humor,
and emphasizing Candy’s roots and influence by stating,
We love that John’s global career started in Toronto, and we can’t wait to share John Candy: I Like Me with everyone at this year’s Opening Night Gala premiere. Colin Hanks has made a hugely entertaining film packed with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, but like John, this movie is all heart. For us, it’s the perfect way to kick off TIFF’s 50th edition.
—Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF
Film Details and Upcoming Release Plans
Released by Amazon MGM, the documentary is said to contain
never-before-seen home videos, intimate access to his family, and candid recollections from collaborators to paint a bigger picture of one of the brightest stars of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.
The official synopsis reveals,
It’s the story of a son, husband, father, friend, and professional driven to bring joy to audiences and loved ones while battling personal ghosts and Hollywood pressures,
reflecting the complexities faced by John Candy in his legendary career. After its world debut at TIFF, the film will become available globally on Prime Video this fall.
TIFF’s Historic 50th Edition Marks a Milestone with a Canadian Favorite
The Toronto International Film Festival will run from September 4 to 14, 2025, with organizers, fans, and global audiences expecting a high-energy tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved entertainers. This premiere aims to capture John Candy’s influence as a father, friend, and collaborator, while shining a light on his enduring appeal for comedy fans everywhere. With high-profile support and heartfelt storytelling, the event promises to honor both the spirit of John Candy and the legacy of TIFF on this milestone anniversary.
