LogFAQs > #924343052

12. Candyman

Genny - 6
Snake - 7
JONA - 8
KBM - 8
Charon - 10
Johnbobb - 11
Karo - 18
Inviso - 24
Scarlet - 38

Genny - This was at the very least my 5th time seeing Candyman and yet the watches have been so far apart that it was basically like I was seeing it for the first time again. I recalled a few jumpscares that charon did not (so big ups to the movie for giving me the joy of seeing him react while I smirked and laughed), but I had forgotten all about the tragic ending and the false prophet that assaulted Helen in a shit stained bathroom while she tried to gather information for her doomed thesis. I also didn't remember the titular character ruining Helen's life by making it look like she committed all the murders. Or did he mind control her to make her actually do it? It's really debatable. It's far from perfect, but at 9.1/10 it's one of the best 90s horror has to offer methinks.

Snake - Why I Chose It - Candyman was a critical and commercial success that established both Tony Todd and his titular character as horror royalty. Candyman was significant in its timely and pointed commentary on race and social class. It's also famous for its score (especially the main theme), and according to composer Philip Glass, he still gets money from that score every year. It has spawned two sequels and is receiving a remake directed by Jordan Peele.

My Thoughts - As scary as it is thought-provoking, Candyman commands your attention thanks to Tony Todd's imposing performance and the background of the notorious CabriniGreen housing project, a real-life horror show that informs much of this film's social commentary. Candyman may be the focal point of the film, but the real horror comes from the gang violence and deplorable conditions that the residents of Cabrini-Green live in and experience daily. The residents using the Candyman legend as their way of coping is such an interesting way of approaching a horror story, and ties reality into fiction so well. I definitely don't want to discredit the horror of Candyman either. His backstory is tragic and his methods are nothing short of terrifying. I like that he can be both a physical and psychological threat to Helen, and shots like the infamous parking garage really show off Candyman's all-seeing, all-reaching presence. I'm typically not a fan of jumpscares, but damn does this movie have some good ones! It's one of the best slashers ever in my book, a testament to how you can have your kills without having to sacrifice a compelling story.

JONA - Helens investigation of the urban legend of Candyman is compelling to watch and the urban setting of Chicago helps contribute to the unsettling atmosphere. Seeing Helens psyche deteriorate as the movie went one was both entertaining and sad to see. The climax with her in the fire was very tense and it was nice to see her redeem her reputation to some people. Candyman, the character, is a great antagonist with his creepiness and seriousness. Tony Todd provides a great performance for him. I also liked the book end.
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