John Candy: I Like Me Trailer Celebrates a Comedy Legend
The first-ever feature documentary on John Candy, directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, will premiere at TIFF before arriving on Prime Video this October.
The legacy of John Candy, one of Canada’s most beloved comedic actors, is being honored in a new feature-length documentary. Titled John Candy: I Like Me, the film is directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, alongside Candy’s children, Jennifer and Christopher. It promises to offer an intimate look at the late actor’s extraordinary career and the man behind the laughter.
The trailer introduces never-before-seen home videos and family interviews, paired with candid recollections from Candy’s collaborators. Familiar voices such as Bill Murray, Steve Martin, Catherine O’Hara, Dan Aykroyd, Martin Short, and Tom Hanks bring both warmth and poignancy to the story. Their reflections underscore Candy’s influence not only on comedy, but also on those who knew him best.
Premiering September 4, 2025, at the Toronto International Film Festival, the documentary’s debut in Candy’s hometown adds a personal layer to the celebration. Known affectionately as “Johnny Toronto,” Candy’s roots in Canada remain central to his legacy, making TIFF a fitting stage for this long-awaited tribute.
Following the premiere, John Candy: I Like Me will stream globally on Prime Video beginning October 10, 2025. The release arrives three decades after Candy’s untimely death in 1994, when he passed away at the age of 43 while filming Wagons East in Mexico. The film’s 113-minute runtime suggests a detailed exploration of both his career highlights and private challenges.
The title of the documentary is itself a nod to Candy’s iconic role in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, where he delivered the memorable line, “I like me.” That spirit of self-acceptance and humor runs through the trailer, offering glimpses of both his public charm and his vulnerabilities.
Produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Maximum Effort, and Zipper Bros. Films, the project also reflects Ryan Reynolds’ ongoing commitment to championing Canadian stories on the global stage. For fans and newcomers alike, the documentary serves as an opportunity to rediscover Candy’s unique blend of humor, heart, and humanity.
The release of the John Candy: I Like Me trailer highlights how Candy’s work continues to resonate. Through intimate storytelling and rare footage, the film paints a fuller picture of the actor, ensuring that his presence endures for generations who may only now be discovering his timeless performances.
