32: Candyman (1992)

This week, we dive deep into the chilling world of Candyman (1992). We share our personal memories and first impressions of the film, break down its origins - connecting Clive Barker’s The Forbidden to Bernard Rose’s haunting adaptation - and discuss how the movie transcends the typical slasher genre. We examine the film’s complex themes, including urban legends, systemic racism, and the power of myth, while recognizing our perspectives as outsiders to some of the film’s core experiences. We cover everything from Tony Todd’s unforgettable performance and the infamous bee scenes, to Virginia Madsen’s hypnotic portrayal of Helen, and the movie’s legacy in horror and pop culture. Plus, we reveal our favorite characters, debate the nature of Candyman’s curse, and share original music inspired by the film. Sources Bogira, Steve. “They Came in Through the Bathroom Mirror: A Murder in the Projects.” Reader, 3 Sep. 1987, https://chicagoreader.com/news/they-came-in-through-the-bathroom-mirror/. Bogira, Steve. “How a story about the horrors of housing projects became part of a horror movie.” Reader, 14 Mar. 2014, https://chicagoreader.com/blogs/how-a-story-about-the-horrors-of-housing-projects-became-part-of-a-horror-movie/. Hanson, Eric. “Sweet & Sour Nightmares: Race and Exploitation in the Original ‘Candyman’.” ScreenHub Entertainment, 10 Sep. 2021. https://screenhub.blog/2021/09/10/sweet-sour-nightmares-race-and-exploitation-in-the-original-candyman/ H.C., Luiz. “Examining the Urban Legends That Inspired ‘Candyman’.” Bloody Disgusting, 25 August 2021. https://bloody-disgusting.com/editorials/3679694/examining-urban-legends-inspired-candymaneditorial/#:~:text=Keeping in mind that Barker was well-versed,patient that preys on unsuspecting teenage couples. Johnny Lee Writes. “History, Collective Memory, and More in ‘Candyman’ (1992).” Medium, 16 April 2024. https://medium.com/black-horrific/history-collective-memory-and-more-in-candyman-1992-15b13cfb5e44 Petty, Audrey (Editor). High Rise Stories: Voices from Chicago Public Housing (Voice of Witness). 2013. Wiltz, Dr. Allison. “In Candyman, White Supremacy is the Real Bad Guy Lurking in the Shadows.” Medium, 3 Apr. 2024, https://medium.com/afro-cinemaphile/in-candyman-white-supremacy-is-the-real-bad-guy-lurking-in-shadows-2e8a6fb1176c.   00:00:00 Intro: Hosts & Spoiler/Content Warnings 00:05:38 Intro: Distribution & Reception 00:17:00 Story Time: Production & Filmmakers 00:30:18 Story Time: Book vs. Film 00:37:30 Story Time: Cast & Characters 01:12:15 Story Time: Murder Mayhem 01:41:00 Story Time: Themes 01:57:05 Vibe Check 02:15:35 Open Mic Night 02:25:45 Losing Light