Candyman

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Kevin P A chilling psychological and sociological horror movie that subverts its slasher setup with a more emotional and seductive turn with the narrative as Helen learns more about the mysterious Candyman and the legends that keep his soul alive. It's a fascinating film about urban legends and fear that can keep a legacy alive long after the inspiration has passed away. There's some solid commentary about Chicago's racial inequality and neglected housing projects, as well as the naivety of privileged white onlookers trying to either to exploit or help without self awareness (often unintentionally both). The Chicago setting is excellently used thanks to it's on-site filming. The practical effects are insane, with Tony Todd wearing a mouth guard to hold LIVE BEES in his mouth on set. He deserved every thousand dollars he was paid for each sting. That is easily one of the most insane stunts to pull off and it's massively impressive on film. There's a lot of creative ideas, like having powers from what killed you, being summoned to the mirror baby the classic bloody marry name game chant, and taking the mantle of a new urban legend in order to stop the old one. Phillip Glass's score is hauntingly beautiful with its ethereal chorus, piano, & organ music. It gives me chills every time I listen to it and it's easily one of my favorite soundtracks of all time. Virginia Madsen and Tony Todd both give great performances, and you strangely buy their bizarre almost-love story a la "Phantom of the Opera". The sets and lighting is delightfully dark and grungy, with graffiti everywhere and a real sense of urban decay. Normally I hate the "main character is framed and nobody believes that the horror movie villain is real" cliche. But damn, this movie executed it quite well. They really dwell on the tension and terror of the situations hopelessness in how everyone turns on Helen, and no matter what she does she only sinks deeper into madness as even she's not sure what's real or not anymore. All culminating in the chilling and oddly cathartic climax as she saves the stolen baby while the terrorized community has finally had enough of Candyman and burns his ass to the ground. It's a bittersweet ending with a chilling final stinger and haunting end credits sequence. It's a subversive movie that really sticks with you thanks to its clever writing, strong performances, creative artistry, and an amazing score composed by Phillip Glass. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 01/17/25 Full Review Ronald R Great Movie!! Highly Recommended!! A++ 🍿🎥🍿 Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/03/25 Full Review Adam P One of my favorite horror films of all time! I first watched this many years ago and it was the first film that actually scared me. Tony Todd is top notch! His voice alone adds a haunting element that will stick with you long after watching. The bits of history and romance added to the story create a unique experience for the slasher genre. A refreshing break from the usual mindless slashers of the era. Candyman has depth. A must watch! Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 12/11/24 Full Review Maurice M Finally watched this on a whim this Halloween… it was dire. Bunch of laugh out loud moments and at one point I was ready to switch off but I saw it through. Can’t believe it has such a high score here, I thought it was silly and boring and not scary in the least. Don’t get the love at all Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 10/31/24 Full Review Regina P Having now seen a total of 4 Candyman movies, this may be the only one that I would consider as good. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 10/14/24 Full Review Solomon K This is one of the best horror movies. Based on the short story by Clive Barker it is one of the few stories I actually enjoyed more as a film. Parts of it will make you sad, make you wonder and of course there are the grisly kills. What’s not to like? A definite classic! Sadly, I’ve noticed a lot of people leaving bad reviews for the recent sequel here. Not sure how they don’t know the difference between this original and that garbage. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/02/24 Full Review Read all reviews

Candyman

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