Review of Candyman (1992) by Luke P — 20 Feb 2009
A very creepy, moody and atmospheric horror film from British writer/ director Bernard Rose, based on a short story by Clive Barker, the thinking man's Stephen King. Your put at a sense of unease almost immediately, Rose's dreamy visuals and Phillip Glass's melodic score (so much better than your average horror movie music) work so intrinsically together to create a truly haunting experience.
Tony Todd is so ridiculously perfect in the title role; his booming voice and physicality adding a majesty and sense of grandeur to the part, charming as he is scary. Virginia Madsen is also superb, apparently performing many of the scenes while hypnotised, so you got to admire that commitment.
A cut above your general slasher/horror film, Candyman is able to avoid many of the cliché's of the genre to create an original and very creepy film. If you enjoy sub-texts, then you can read deeper into the film; if not then just prepare to jump out of your pants in fright.
Everybody wins! Sweets to the sweet, indeed!
This review of Candyman (1992) was written by Luke P on 20 Feb 2009.
Candyman has generally received positive reviews.
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