When you think of Hollywood, you think of glitz, glamour, and an intoxicating nightlife. However, the late John Candy is an exception to such assumptions. Boisterous, kind, and warm-hearted, John Candy eschewed the pressures of fame by remaining naturally humorous and grounded in a challenging industry. Although his life and career were short-lived, Candy's reputation and legacy has endured, with renewed attention lately due to the Amazon Prime documentary John Candy: I Like Me and a new biography. In celebration of what would have been his 75th birthday on October 31, here are the top picks of the iconic comedian's work.
After small parts in television and hosting of Saturday Night Live, Candy's breakthrough came as Freddie Bauer, the wisecracking womanizer in the hit comedy Splash. Tom Hanks may have been the film's leading man, but it was Candy who truly stole the spotlight. With his quick-witted demeanor and sharp jokes, it's no wonder that this film earned Candy a three-picture deal with Walt Disney Studios.
Working in a flower shop should be one of the safest places, right? Wrong! The horror comedy Little Shop of Horrors sees Candy make a special yet memorable appearance as the quirky disc jockey Wink Wilkinson, whose radio show "Wink Wilkinson's Weird World" highlights weird things, in particular the Audrey II, a carnivorous plant.
Traveling during the holidays can be stressful. However, traveling with a complete stranger can be quite the misadventure. The 1987 holiday comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles sees Candy star alongside fellow comedian Steve Martin as accidental traveling companions during the Thanksgiving holiday. In one of his most memorable roles, Candy portrays Del Griffith, a well-meaning yet annoying salesman whose infectious personality wins over Del Page, Martin's grouchy and uptight counterpart. The film is a blend of humor, hijinks, and heartwarming scenes that make it more than your average buddy comedy.
In a galaxy far, far, far, away, the world isn't the world. The space opera parody Spaceballs sees Candy in his trademark supporting role, this time as Barf, the fun-loving alien sidekick of Lone Starr who must save Princess Vespa from being ransom to a dying planet. Although it opened to mixed reviews at the time of release, the film has seen a more positive reception in recent years. And a planned sequel was recently announced.
Every family has a black sheep, and Buck Russell plays this role well. In the 1989 comedy classic Uncle Buck, Candy portrays the titular character as a self-absorbed, non-committal bachelor who avoids responsibility at all costs. This changes when he reluctantly babysits his brother's children during a family emergency. Candy's portrayal of Buck can best be described as transformative; he showcases staunchness and tenderness throughout the film, making it a cult favorite.
What John Candy films tickle your funny bone? Let us know in the comments below.
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