This September, Ryan Reynolds produces John Candy documentary 2025, bringing a new perspective to the Toronto International Film Festival as it celebrates its 50th year. The documentary, titled John Candy: I Like Me, directed by Colin Hanks, will premiere September 4, offering a revealing look at one of Canada’s beloved comedy icons and exploring the real person behind his enduring popularity.
A Deep Dive into John Candy’s Life and Legacy
The upcoming documentary seeks to uncover layers of John Candy’s life beyond his well-known comedic roles. John Candy, whose career highlights include memorable performances in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” “Uncle Buck,” “Spaceballs,” “Cool Runnings,” and “The Great Outdoors,” was known for his natural delivery and deeply human characters. Though millions were familiar with his on-screen persona, the film intends to explore the private man, detailing experiences, challenges, and joys that were rarely seen by the public.
Both Ryan Reynolds and Colin Hanks bring a personal touch to this project. Reynolds’s lifelong admiration for Candy as a fellow Canadian and Hanks’s childhood experience working alongside him in “Volunteers” demonstrate their genuine connection to the subject. This partnership aims to bring authenticity and heart to the film, which promises to deliver more than just career highlights, delving into Candy’s enduring impact and personal journey.
Rare Stories Told by Family and Friends
Unlike previous retrospectives, John Candy: I Like Me will present exclusive insights and rare narratives from Candy’s family and close friends. The documentary is set apart by incorporating stories shared by his children, using seldom-seen home footage, and inviting reflections from those who truly understood him. These candid accounts aspire to reveal the real John Candy—his humor, struggles, and the warmth that made him endearing to colleagues and fans alike.
The film’s approach centers on revealing the multidimensional aspects of Candy’s life, as his loved ones recount personal memories and pivotal experiences. Colin Hanks brings his own perspective from having acted with Candy as a child, while insights from Candy’s circle further illustrate the sincerity behind his public image. The filmmakers articulate a clear goal for the documentary: to showcase who John Candy was, not only as a performer but also as a father, friend, and individual cherished by many.
Premiere Details and What Audiences Can Expect
The world premiere for John Candy: I Like Me is scheduled for September 4 at the opening of the Toronto International Film Festival, marking a significant event for festival-goers and fans of Canadian cinema. After its debut in Toronto, the documentary will reach a broader audience when it becomes available on Amazon Prime Video later in the fall of 2025.
This highly anticipated film joins the ranks of major festival premieres, standing out for its intimate storytelling and behind-the-scenes glimpses into Candy’s unique place in entertainment history. With Ryan Reynolds and Colin Hanks at the helm, the project brings together established talent and personal investment, ensuring that audiences will encounter a thoughtfully crafted portrait of John Candy that celebrates both his public achievements and private legacy.
As anticipation builds, John Candy: I Like Me is poised to resonate not only with long-time fans but also with new audiences, inviting viewers to connect more deeply with the man whose creative spirit and kindness left an indelible mark on film and comedy communities worldwide. The documentary’s release is expected to spark renewed appreciation for John Candy’s life, while also highlighting the efforts of those, like Ryan Reynolds and Colin Hanks, dedicated to preserving his lasting influence.
