John Candy’s Son Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Story of Devil Costume Scene in ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’
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John Candy, the beloved actor, brought laughter and joy to audiences through his memorable performances. One such iconic moment was the devil costume scene in the classic film ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’. This scene, however, was not originally scripted but was born out of a spontaneous improvisation between Candy and director John Hughes.
In a recent panel discussion about the documentary ‘John Candy: I Like Me’, Candy’s son, Chris Candy, shared an intriguing insight into the creation of the devil costume scene. He recalled how the film’s production faced challenges with budget and schedule overruns, leading the studio to send executives to investigate the delays. Upon their arrival, they were surprised to find John Candy dressed as the devil, a scene not part of the script.
Chris Candy revealed that his father was playfully poking people with his devil horns, leaving the executives perplexed about the unexpected addition. To ease their concerns and inject some impromptu humour, John Candy and John Hughes concocted the devil costume scene on the spot. This quick thinking and creativity led to a one-second shot that would become a memorable highlight of the film.
‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’ was not just a movie; it was a testament to the talent and improvisational skills of its cast and crew. The chemistry between Steve Martin and John Candy on-screen translated into a heartwarming story that has stood the test of time. Despite facing challenges during production, the film’s success is a testament to the magic that happens when talented individuals come together.
Aside from his son Chris, John Candy left a lasting impact on his friends and co-stars, many of whom shared fond memories of working with the comedic genius. From Martin to O’Hara, Aykroyd to Hanks, the documentary ‘John Candy: I Like Me’ offers a glimpse into the personal and professional life of the late actor. Through never-before-seen footage and intimate interviews, the film paints a comprehensive portrait of a man who brought laughter to millions.
The documentary delves into the personal struggles and pressures that John Candy faced, portraying a multifaceted individual driven by a desire to entertain and connect with his audience. His legacy transcends the screen, touching the lives of those who knew him and those who continue to enjoy his timeless performances.
‘John Candy: I Like Me’, produced by Ryan Reynolds and directed by Colin Hanks, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to critical acclaim. The film promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a Hollywood legend whose impact continues to be felt. With its release on Prime Video, audiences will have the opportunity to celebrate the life and work of a true talent.
In a world where entertainment often feels fleeting, John Candy’s enduring charm and wit serve as a reminder of the power of laughter and humanity. His ability to make us laugh and feel has left an indelible mark on the world of film and comedy. As we revisit the devil costume scene in ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’, we are reminded of the creative brilliance that John Candy brought to every role he portrayed.
The legacy of John Candy lives on through his timeless performances, his impact on the industry, and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’ may have been a film, but for fans and admirers of John Candy, it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a comedic genius.