Watch Candyman

Candyman (2021) is a captivating horror movie directed by Nia DaCosta and produced by Jordan Peele. The movie stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Anthony McCoy, a visual artist who becomes obsessed with the Candyman legend as he explores the dark history of his neighborhood, Cabrini-Green. Teyonah Parris plays Anthony's girlfriend Brianna Cartwright, a gallery director who supports and challenges him in his artistic endeavors. Nathan Stewart-Jarrett plays Troy Cartwright, Brianna's brother who also grew up in the neighborhood and serves as a link between Anthony and the Candyman myth.

The movie is a spiritual sequel to the 1992 classic Candyman, but it is not a mere remake or reboot. Instead, it builds upon the previous movie's themes and mythology while adapting them to our contemporary times. The Candyman legend is still about a vengeful spirit who haunts those who call his name five times in a mirror, but the movie explores the social and racial context behind the myth. In the original movie, the Candyman was a black man who was unjustly accused and killed by a white lynch mob for having a romantic relationship with a white woman. In the new movie, the Candyman represents not only the legacy of that injustice but also the ongoing struggles of black people against systemic racism and gentrification.

The movie starts by introducing us to Anthony and Brianna, two young black professionals who have recently moved into a high-end apartment complex near the old Cabrini-Green. They are fascinated by the neighborhood's history but also by their own artistic careers. Anthony suffers from an artist's block and seeks inspiration by researching the Candyman myth, which he plans to incorporate into his next art show. However, as he starts delving deeper into the story and interviewing the locals, he realizes that the myth has many layers and that the Candyman is much more real and present than he thought.

The movie's first act skillfully establishes the characters, their relationships, and their setting, while also introducing some eerie and suspenseful moments. The cinematography is excellent, with contrasting shots between the modern sleek architecture of Anthony's apartment and the gritty urban decay of Cabrini-Green. The soundtrack is also effective, mixing classical music with hip hop and jazz beats.

As the movie progresses, it becomes more intense and violent, but never gratuitous or predictable. The kills are brutal but also symbolic, linking the Candyman's victims to a larger narrative about violence and trauma. The movie also plays with the conventions of horror movies, subverting some tropes and inventing its own. For example, there is a scene where Anthony confronts the Candyman in a mirror, but instead of facing a bloody reflection, he sees a swarm of bees transforming into a human shape. This scene is both creepy and beautiful, as it highlights the Candyman's supernatural powers and his connection to nature.

In addition to the horror elements, the movie also has a strong social commentary, dealing with issues such as urban decay, police brutality, art exploitation, and white savior complex. The characters are not just archetypes but have their own backstories and motivations, which make their actions and reactions more believable and resonant. The movie also explores the intergenerational aspects of trauma, as there are characters who have to cope with the legacy of their ancestors' suffering and mistakes.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Anthony, balancing his character's ambition, insecurity, and obsession. Teyonah Parris is equally impressive as Brianna, a strong and supportive partner who also challenges Anthony's assumptions and opinions. Nathan Stewart-Jarrett brings a playful and sympathetic vibe to Troy, who acts as a liaison between the protagonists and the Candyman legend. The rest of the cast, including Colman Domingo, Vanessa Estelle Williams, and Tony Todd (who reprises his role as the original Candyman), also add layers of depth and dimension to the story.

Overall, Candyman (2021) is a remarkable movie that blends horror, social commentary, artistry, and storytelling into a coherent and engaging experience. It pays homage to the original while also creating its own identity and relevance. It is a must-see for fans of the genre and for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and entertaining cinema.

Candyman is a 2021 horror movie. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9 and a MetaScore of 72.