The new documentary John Candy: I Like Me has released on Prime Video and is currently number one on the streaming service.
The documentary, which is produced by Ryan Reynolds, debuted on Prime Video on October 10 after its initial limited screenings and premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Colin Hanks (known for Dexter, Fargo, and Nobody 2), John Candy: I Like Me examines the late John Candy’s legacy and his career before his pᴀssing in 1994.
Colin Hanks’ documentary is currently the number one movie on Prime Video. John Candy: I Like Me featured a lot of actors and celebrities paying tribute to the Canadian actor, including Bill Murray, Tom Hanks, Steven Martin, Mel Brooks, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Conan O’Brien, and more.
Candy, best known for his roles in Uncle Buck, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Home Alone, was a household name and well-known for his comedic timing and witty banter. Candy’s career began when he landed a role on the Canadian show SCTV (Second City Television) and appeared on the comedy show for three years.
Tragically, the actor was found ᴅᴇᴀᴅ at the age of 43 in 1994 and suffered a heart attack in his sleep due to his weight and heavy smoking habits.
Hanks met Candy on the set of the 1984 comedy Splash, which also starred his father, Tom Hanks, and stated that, “He had this innate gift of making you feel important and feel special. That even as a kid, your opinion mattered. That your emotions mattered. That you mattered.”
I Like Me explores Candy’s career, but also personal struggles many fans may not be familiar with, including the death of his father and his struggle with perception. The director said that what drew him to making the documentary was Reynolds’ participation as well as Candy’s hidden mental health struggles, which he hid behind humor.
Hanks featured uncomfortable interviews and clips that highlight Candy’s treatment throughout his career, including inappropriate jokes about his weight. Reynolds produced the documentary and has been vocal about his admiration for the late actor, even including Easter Eggs paying homage to Candy in all three of the ᴅᴇᴀᴅpool movies.
The film has been widely praised and is even receiving Oscar buzz after its impressive ratings, including an 86% on Rotten Tomatoes. With its significant attention, I Like Me could be in the race for Best Documentary Feature. However, the Academy doesn’t particularly favor celebrity-profile documentaries.