Since 1992
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Candyman (2021)
(Universal Pictures/MGM)
By Lucas Allen
1992’s “Candyman” can be seen as the essential horror film of the decade, combining unsettling imagery with social commentary. Despite spawning two sequels with decreasing quality, it seems at some point it would be a good time for the vengeful spirit to make a welcome return. Fortunately, that time is finally here, thanks to co-writer/producer Jordan Peele, who specialized in making horror films with social satire with his directorial efforts “Get Out” and “Us.” The new reboot or “spiritual sequel” is also co-written and directed by another rising voice in Hollywood filmmaking Nia DaCosta.
In the three decades since the original, the Cabrini-Green projects in Chicago have gone through gentrification, with the old towers being brought down to make room for new condos. Rising artist Anthony (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) visits the old neighborhood to find inspiration to display new art with his girlfriend Brianna (Teyonah Parris). Upon interviewing one of the few remaining residents named William (Colman Domingo), Anthony learns of a story of a hook-handed man named Sherman (Michael Hargrove) better known in the community as Candyman, who was beaten to death by the police when he was wrongfully blamed for the horrible injuries sustained by the children. Legend has it, if you say his name five times in the mirror, he can be seen in the reflection.
Not long after, Anthony uses the legend to create new art displayed in a museum that’s run by his boss Clive (Brian King). However, anyone who saw the display were then mysteriously murdered by someone or something. With Anthony, he starts to feel possessed by the Candyman turning his work into an obsession and a bee sting he got keeps growing into horrific form on his arm. But when he learns more about the legend including surprising revelations by his mother Anna Marie (Vanessa Estelle Williams reprising his role from the original), the terror of the legend grows deeper going back to the first “Candyman,” with fateful artist Daniel Robitaille (Tony Todd).
Though this film makes direct connections to the original film, the film’s story seems to retcon or expanding on the legend by revealing there was more than one Candyman who lived within that small community. It’s weird at first, but as the film goes on, the plot has some interesting twists right up to the conclusion that’ll surprise and satisfy any fan of the original. Throughout the film, the suspense keeps on building while each kill scene gets gorier as it goes along. The sound design helps to enhance the feeling of terror with the sounds of bees buzzing adding to the unsettling mood. Not to mention, the score perfectly fit the bizarre imagery like the opening credits.
Much like the original, the social commentary here mixed with the horror is both timely and nicely incorporated. Though some of the dialogue can get pretty much on the nose, the film wisely doesn’t try to hammer in the point too much. It helps that this movie gets more creative with its commentary by using creepy paper puppets to drive the point across.
Abdul-Mateen II makes for a likable lead role while giving a realistic portrayal of a tortured artist especially with the supernatural connotations. Parris also delivers a fine performance trying to add some heart to the scary proceedings. There are some surprise appearances from some of the stars of the original film that fans will be happy to look out for.
Of the horror films released in theaters this year, “Candyman” could be the most stylish and wonderfully terrifying film ever made. This is the kind of horror film that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve seen it. It also leaves a satisfying open ending for anyone who would love to see where the next film will go from there.
THE MOVIE’S RATING: R (for bloody horror violence, and language including some sexual references)
THE CRITIC’S RATING: 3.5 Stars (Out of Four)
