The 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) will open with the World Premiere of John Candy: I Like Me on Thursday, Sept. 4.
Directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, TIFF describes the documentary as “a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Canadian icon, with stories and memories from Candy’s family, closest friends, and longtime collaborators.”
“Comedy fans all over the world grew up on John Candy’s humour,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, in a festival announcement. “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.”
“When you hear the name John Candy, your face lights up. He wasn’t just a great actor; he was an even better person,” added Hanks and Reynolds. “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 honoured 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.”
Co-executive produced by the late comedian’s children Chris Candy and Jennifer Candy-Sullivan, and his widow, Rosemary Candy, the film documents the actor’s on- and off-camera persona, incorporating home videos and candid recollections.
The Amazon MGM title is set to debut on Prime Video on Oct. 10 worldwide.
