Candyman (1992)

Director: Bernard Rose

Starring: Virginia Madsen, Xander Berkeley, Tony Todd

The Candyman, a murderous soul with a hook for a hand, is accidentally summoned to reality by a skeptic grad student researching the monster’s myth.

“Candyman. Candyman. Candyman. Candyman. Candyman”. No, I did not say this whilst standing in front of a mirror.

This is an interesting  concept and an antagonist with a good back story. In fact, I found the back story so interesting, I think it will make a wonderful prequel movie. I enjoyed Helen (Virginia Madsen) – a fearless, strong and determined character. There are very few actresses who can still look sensual when covered in blood. Virginia Madsen – with her vintage 60s look – is such an actress. She did the character justice.

The acting in general is very good. Despite being a horror movie, ‘Candyman’ is also an interesting mystery thriller, with added drama in the form of infidelity. Helen faces more than she bargained for as her life completely falls to pieces, resulting in excellent character development – so well portrayed by Madsen. Tony Todd was also well cast as Candyman, with his big physique and deep voice. He lent an eeriness to the film, and really owned the character.

The film might not have the ending one hopes for, but maybe more realistic this way, with a good climax. ‘Candyman’ features an unusually beautiful score for this type of film.

Madsen won the Best Actress award. ‘Candyman’ also received nominations including Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Soundtrack, Best Director, Best Film, Best Studio/Wide Release Film. The film earned almost $26 million on a $6 million budget.

Would I watch it again? Yes.