The 50th annual Toronto International Film Festival opened on September 4, 2025, with an evening that balanced glamour, emotion, and national pride. Running through September 14, the landmark edition of TIFF drew international attention as it celebrated its half-century legacy by honoring one of Canada’s most beloved cultural figures. The opening night gala featured the world premiere of John Candy: I Like Me, a heartfelt documentary directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds.
The film, which screened at Roy Thomson Hall, painted an intimate portrait of John Candy, the iconic Canadian comedian whose humor and generosity made him a household name in the 1980s and 1990s. Audiences were treated to never-before-seen archival footage and home videos, alongside heartfelt recollections from Candy’s family, friends, and colleagues. Appearances from Tom Hanks, Bill Murray, Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Steve Martin, Dan Aykroyd, and Macaulay Culkin contributed to a mosaic of memories that captured Candy’s charisma, kindness, and comedic brilliance. The atmosphere in the hall was one of laughter mixed with tears, as the film offered both a celebration of Candy’s achievements and a reflection on his struggles.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney lent further weight to the occasion with an opening address that invoked Candy’s resilient spirit. Drawing a parallel between the comedian’s ability to stand tall in difficult circumstances and Canada’s own determination to assert its identity in a complex international climate, Carney’s remarks earned enthusiastic applause. His words underscored the festival’s dual role as a showcase for cinema and a stage for Canadian pride and cultural expression.
The documentary itself struck a balance between reverence and honesty. While it celebrated Candy’s larger-than-life persona, it also acknowledged his private battles with anxiety, insecurities about his health, and the pressures of fame. In a poignant interview, Macaulay Culkin recalled moments when Candy offered him genuine compassion during his early struggles in Hollywood, describing the older actor as a protective, fatherly figure. Ryan Reynolds also reflected on how he recognized elements of himself in Candy’s tendency to please others and wrestle with self-doubt, framing the comedian’s humanity as an essential part of his enduring appeal.
Though some critics noted that the film leaned more toward affectionate tribute than investigative biography, the emotional resonance was undeniable. For longtime fans, the documentary reaffirmed Candy’s place as a Canadian treasure whose humor transcended borders. For younger audiences, it introduced the comedian as more than a screen presence—someone who embodied warmth and humility even amid personal challenges. Colin Hanks’ direction steered the narrative with sensitivity, emphasizing the emotional connections Candy fostered in both his professional and personal life.
The premiere set the tone for TIFF’s 50th edition, signaling a program that promises both star power and substance. Beyond the gala, the festival is set to feature an eclectic lineup of premieres from around the world, as well as industry panels, workshops, and networking events designed to foster dialogue between creators and audiences. As in past years, TIFF continues to serve as a critical launchpad for awards season contenders, but this anniversary year carries an added layer of reflection—looking back at five decades of storytelling while also pushing forward into new frontiers of cinema.
By opening with a film that so powerfully connects Canadian identity with global artistry, TIFF underscored its unique position in the cultural landscape. John Candy: I Like Me was more than an opening night selection; it was a reminder of cinema’s ability to preserve memory, celebrate humanity, and inspire collective reflection.
As the festival continues through its ten-day run, the tribute to Candy will remain one of its defining moments, an emblem of how film can capture both the joy and vulnerability of the human experience. TIFF’s 50th anniversary has begun with a celebration rooted in laughter, love, and remembrance—qualities that John Candy himself embodied and which continue to resonate on the world stage.