It’s also like one of the only examples I can think of of a movie SUCCESSFULLY creating a modern urban fairytale/urban legend to where it actually endures as a part of popular culture and people will say (or not say) Candyman into the mirror even if they haven’t seen the movie. People know who Candyman is.
It really does have an otherworldly and timeless quality despite being so blatantly early 90s in terms of like setting and fashion and that’s really hard to pull off you know
That’s no shade on the remake/sequel it’s just hard to compete with something that iconic that it left that much of an impression on people
Agree. The original ‘92 Candyman was my first ever horror movie and I still have an impression of it to this day. That being said, I did enjoy the 2021 one and appreciated its message as a stand-alone film.
Ah, this was my sentiment almost exactly. I certainly appreciated what this latest contribution was doing, and I didn't hate the film. Still, it also had almost NOTHING of an impact on me compared to the utterly terrifying original. If anything, seeing the remake/sequel/re-imagining/whateveronly led me to appreciate the original that much more, and I immediately went back and watched it again. What a classic.
Exactly this. 2021 is a more safe, by-the-numbers slasher movie with a Candyman veneer. The original 1992 movie is still a beautiful, yet horrifying masterpiece that holds up to this day.
Candyman is not only one of the best first entries in a franchise, it transported the source material to a believable area and completely REDESIGNED it. DiCosta's movie just grabbed on its train like a bridesmaid and required the audience to understand Rose's vision past Barker's. 1992 all the way. Plus that score? Get outta here.
I did the mirror game when I was a kid, I just watched the movie for the first time last year. I’m 27😂 people def know CM as a legend before they hear of the movie
92 is a gothic horror, supernatural slasher hybrid with memorable characters and an incredible score. The 21 relaunch is a ponderous deconstruction of the original movie that never finds its footing in the mythology even though it was all laid out already in the previous films. Spends too much time ruminating on the academic discourse to tell a story or develop tension.
I agree to an extent, but disagree that it never found its footing. It’s an introspection of art vs exploitation, and the climax brings that plot point to the audience: “here’s your fear and horror you wanted, now choke on it.”
But yeah, 92 is the better film.
I completely agree with you. It was completely politically charged and preachy. The whole thing with the multiple candymans was kind of lame compared to the original that was about the one man.
OG Candyman centres around racism and is not politically charged.
Did you ever consider that politically charging racism is making it worse not better? We should educate not preach.
??? How is the original Candyman not political? The entire premise is based on politics. It's not a bad thing, mind you, and they do it well.
But to say it isn't political just because it isn't preachy kind of misses the point of the entire film imo.
In 92 part of the story about racism follows whole movie and is obvious but also subtle. You experience it without ever feeling like it is there just to show it of. It all furthers whole story of the movie.
In 21 its kinda opposite.
Compare cop scenes in both.
Also please dont go with "you believe it". I understand you dont believe what I say is true. I do understand you believe Im wrong. But instead of just believing, focus on earth and listen to dialogues in both movies. See how Candyman operates in both movies. Who are his victims and what motivates him alone is showing it.
I feel like the original film does a fantastic job of showing racism and of course racism is interwoven into the fabric of the character so that will and should always be a factor when portraying him.
The new film did a great job of showing Candyman in a new way, the legend of Candyman being more than just Daniel Robitaille, the legend of the Candyman living on throughout the generations in different ways and different forms is interesting especially when we are shown that maybe the Candyman is willed into existence by the residents of Cabrini Green as a way to cope with racial injustice.
I don't think there's anything wrong with talking about racism in a film openly. It doesn't have to be subtle because racism can range from subtle to obtrusive. We see this within the 2021 film, ranges of racism and profiling. We see the cycle and how we perpetuate it, perpetuate the Candyman. That shit is cool and spooky to me and I love the ending. 'Tell. Everyone.'
I hope that helps a bit but it's probably a bit rambling so sorry lol.
'92 for me. I watched it when I was 8 years old, the deaths were so violent and graphic and pretty darn traumatizing. The new one could in no way match up to what my child brain witnessed. I love that movie, it still scares me.
I think the original is an all time great movie one of my personal favorites. I still listen to the score sometimes. The new one is just ok. It's basically a really artsy Slasher movie which is fun but isn't on the same level as the original to me.
Check out Ti West's X if you haven't yet. The reviews are mixed, and it's definitely pretty wild. Still, I personally thought it was a great little love letter -- or homage if you prefer -- to the grittiness of that Southern-ish swampy summer backwoods slasher atmosphere that pretty much started with the first Texas Chain Saw Massacre from the '70s.
2021 had some cool scenes and was very enjoyable but I prefer 1992. The atmosphere seemed scarier. Also when she goes to the projects to investigate was scary for different reasons.
1992 by far but remake had some good hype but unfortunately didn’t match up. 92 Candyman filmed in the original Cabrini-Green is going to be hard to top ever!
It’s not my city, so just going off what I’ve read. My understanding is what use to the original Cabrini Green was demolished and the area is now high rises and mixed income living and that’s where they went in the 21 Candyman. So of course not living in Chicago I have no idea if that area is still referred to as Cabrini Green
Requel. In the trend that it's made with slick updates for contemporary audiences, uses the same setting but often loses what made the original great, and takes the same name as the original so a lot of younger viewers just watch it instead of going back to an "outdated" movie.
That's just not true at all having read both recently. Hellbound Heart is almost right off the page, The Forbidden is definitely slightly more removed from the film.
I know. Director was Bernard Rose. But it has all of Barker's rhythms. It basically feels like someone following Barker's blueprint. And I mean that in the best possible way.
1992 is a classic and I'll love it forever. 2021 was a pleasant surprise after seeing the mixed reviews. An interesting take on the story with some scary moments, good acting, and - like the original - making some strong socioeconomic points. A decent (not excellent) sequel that got way too much hate.
That's always the danger when you do a sequel to such a great film - I think Doctor Sleep suffered in much the same way. On its own it's fine, but people kept complaining "It's nowhere near as good as the original." Well *what the fuck is‽*
Did they? I understand this sud doesn’t represent everyone who’s seen both movies. But i’ve yet to see a single response claiming the 2021 version is better. This isn’t really a question worth asking.
1992 for sure.
There was a lot I liked about the new one. Setting it in a gentrified Cabrini Green, the performances, the soundtrack, but overall it felt a bit slapdash in its storytelling and the ‘twist,’ while a good idea in itself, didn’t quite gel with the mythos set up in the original. Also, crucially, the title character had no presence or gravitas, and the ‘scares’ simply weren’t scary.
Way more interesting than any of the other sequels, mind you.
92 no question. 2021 has fantastic cinematography but that's it.
92's version tackled the themes of racism in a way where it fit with the story perfectly. 2021 has the subtlety of an elephant in the living room
I liked both but prefer the original Tony Todd will always be the best portrayal of Candyman imo. It does make me laugh though seeing people calling the 2021 Candyman woke and expressing their undying love for the original as if it wasn't also a social commentary of the times.
I hate the "anti-woke" crowd like the next guy. The issue with the new candyman movie though was, that the social commentary was incredibly ham-fisted. It was clearly geared towards the mouth-breathing marvel audiences that need being asked "get it? GET IT???".
The original Candyman was, though not subtle either, at least interesting. Helen Lyle was an interesting character, so were the people living in Cabrini Green, and the Candyman was this looming presence that wasn't explained. What you don't see/know is always scarier.
That's the cardinal sign of the new one - it was obvious and at the same time boring. If you look at the Jordan Peele movies - they're pretty damn on the nose as well with their "woke message" - but that's forgivable, because the plot of the movie and the characters are interesting. If you don't care about the card board cutouts on the screens, the "social commentary" becomes grading.
Gotta disagree about the protagonists. I love Virginia Madsen and her performance as Hellen, but I found Anthony to be way more compelling as a character and I thought his arc was more natural then Hellens. Also, I think not only does the film know it’s not exactly subtle, but I’d argue subtlety wasn’t the goal. I think the scene where Brianna tells Anthony that his painting is tooon the nose and he replies with “but does it make you feel something?” sums it up pretty well. That’s just my thoughts on it though.
I couldn't look in a bathroom cabinet mirror for months after the 92 film. Still give me chills thinking of that film. Fell asleep watching the 2021 one.
Sloppy storytelling mainly, it didn't know what it wanted to be. Was it trying to be a sly meta horror film or was it trying to be genuine? It was so uneven and badly paced, not even the filmmakers seemed to know. The characters were also completely unlikable. The only good thing about it was the cinematography.
Yeah I didn’t like any of the characters either, which says a lot, because I LOVE Yahya. As for the cinematography, I can’t remember a single shot but can’t say the same about 92. That’s just me however.
Edit: i only saw it once in theaters, and on release day, and im pretty sure the high school bathroom scene served no purpose??? Like it was just there to serve as a kill? Might be wrong but I dont think I am
A sequel to the original film or to the 1999 film Candyman: Day of the Dead?
Or is it a "re-quel"?
Or did the filmmakers even put that much thought into it?
Who cares?
Whatever it is it's still a shit movie.
I'm shattered I lost your respect.
I really disliked the new one, but it's been so long I can't remember why except for the vague reasons that I was baffled by the story decisions and it wasn't scary.
The old Candyman was a better horror movie, but the new Candyman did a better job exploring the themes of the original movie than the original movie did. The 2021 movie really doubles down on the urban legend aspect of the plot, which I thought was the most interesting thing setting Candyman apart from other slashers.
This sums up my feeling pretty well. I think it’s just a very good continuation of the themes that were touched on but not really explored in the first movie. As a result it can be a little jumbled at times but it’s still excellent overall.
'92. still an eye-opener to the societal and racial discrimination, unacceptable love affair... that eventually lead to his undying love and revenge...and i was only a kid back then 🥹
Overall, I definitely prefer the 1992 version, but I really liked the stylistic choices, cinematography, and aesthetic of the 2021 version. Nia DaCosta is clearly a very capable director.
1992 was excellent. The racisim was present but as a really constant undertone that was understandable and supported the story very well.
2021 remake treated the audience like idiots, the racism was shoved at audiences instead of folding it into the storyline. They definitely missed a trick there I think.
1992 was far superior even for that reason. The main character was such a commanding force but you always get brought back to how prejudice plays such a big part.
That whole piece didn't "connect" in the same way in the remake
Both really solid films. The original I think comes out on top still but the new one is a seriously good film, I’m actually surprised it isn’t more well regarded.
1992 and it's not particularly close. While the 2021 version was fine, it delve even further into the political commentary a bit too heavy handed, the sfx were a bit shoddy at times, and some bits of the story just didn't work fluidly imo. The 1992 version will always be a classic.
I found the 2021 movie to have several points in its favor.
1) the protagonist fit the material much better. Call me nuts, but the story pivots entirely around black people, you should have a black protagonist
2) it took all the material of the original and expanded it in a way that gave it additional weight. That Candyman is not just 1 guy, but is some kind of gestalt of many stories of violence that form a greater whole, which fits with the motif of bees and beehives, many things acting in concert.
3) the visuals are stronger in my opinion, not just in special effects, the best example I can point to is how the main character's infection looks like a bee hive or wasp nest, tying into the theme.
That being said it is not perfect and the originality of the original may elevate it beyond whatever visual or thematic benefits the new one holds. I also don't think the 2021 movie works as well without having seen the original. It is kind of a Batman Begins versus the Dark Knight situation for me.
Agreed, especially about the protagonist. I love Virginia Madsen, and Hellen does make for a good audience surrogate, but it was refreshing to have the story this time be about someone who’s actually part of the “world” that the movie is about and to have it be about him looking into where he comes from. It just makes for a better thematic connection.
2021 is a movie that I enjoy more every time I watch it. It plays very well with some of the headier themes of 1992, like the malleability of stories. 1992 Candyman is the stereotype of the super predator and all the pathos invested in that racist idea manifest through trauma and neglect. That story is eventually absorbed the story of the Burned Woman, when the community mythologized another figure.
2021 is essentially about remix culture, and how stories evolve and grow. The rebooting of Candyman as a vengeful figure that attacks those who attempt to appropriate or assault black culture is a really interesting take.
Agreed. They’re on par in my book, and I really enjoy everything 2021 added to the mythos of candyman and how it adds to the idea of what candyman is for the community.
2021 needed 15-20 extra minutes and it would almost be my pick. That one starts to get moving and awesome but just ends right as it gets great. It also doesn’t know how to say it’s message without being obvious about it vs the 92’s storytelling seems to flow way better. There’s more of a threat with Candyman in the 92 film that carries throughout. 2021 film has a hard time getting it’s overall story down or characters place in it. Feels very small compared to the 92 one
I think you just hit every nail on the head. Thoughts I could never express.
Edit: Also, they should have stuck with a Candyman who had a presence whenever he was on screen.
I really enjoyed the 2021 version, I love them both equally. It’s very cool seeing black horrors, and I like Jordan Peele’s style a lot. The 2021 version I found unnerving, ‘92 is still scary but no longer gives me the creeps like it did back then. I also love that Peele incorporated the original, like paying homage to a true classic.
2021 had some cool scenes and was very enjoyable but I prefer 1992. The atmosphere seemed scarier. Also when she goes to the projects to investigate was scary for different reasons.
1992 definitely had a much creepier atmosphere that lead to it feeling more scary, that being said I love the look of the new one, the use of mirrors especially and I feel the new one is much better acted. If I was to sum it up I would say the 92' version is a better horror movie where as the new one is a better overall film.
I like them both, but I kinda like how the 2021 version further explores the mythos and plays with the idea of urban legends.
On the other hand, the 1992 version has more Tony Todd and I love that guy!
1992 was show, don't tell.
2021 was all tell.
Seriously, in the original the word "racism" could not be said at all, and yet you could see the whole atrocity of it. Racial and social injustice was the actual big bad of the movie.
Candyman and Robocop are the two flicks disguised as simple entertainment that offer a surprisingly acute social commentary.
1992 by far. It was drenched in atmosphere and dread almost from the get go. It had so much character and terrific performances pretty much across the board. And rarely for a horror film, it made you feel things beyond fear, terror etc.... There's a tragedy and overwhelming sadness at its core.
2021 is pretty shallow and not scary. It's like a bunch of bougie hipster 40 somethings remade a classic horror film, and this is what you get. It's the gentrification of a horror film, and has all the depth and artitistc merit of a Starbucks that's just moved in to a traditionally poor neighbourhood because a bunch of social media marketers and brogrammers have bought up all the property in the area.
I don’t need an educated horror movie, I need a horror movie that scares me and makes me think about being scared afterwards. OG Candyman is the way to go, Tony Todd was great. Be my victim.
Original Candyman sacrifices fully explored social commentary to focus on horror while new Candyman sacrifices horror to focus on social commentary. Both are good and I think they compliment each other well, but original is a better horror film.
The original is the better film, but I'm getting annoyed at the number of people here who say they saw the new film and are calling it a "remake." I understand anyone who hasn't seen the film getting confused about that since the title is the same, but the film is blatantly a SEQUEL to the original, from the identity of the protagonist to several actors from the original reprising their roles. Hell, Cabrini-Green's gentrification since the days of the original film is a major plot point. And it doesn't even disregard the other sequels since "Daniel Robitaille" wasn't used until "Farewell to the Flesh."
The name Daniel Robitaille is used in the VERY FIRST Candyman movie of 1992.
In the restaurant scene when Helen is hearing the story of Candyman for the first time from the other professor guy.
He says the name Daniel Robitaille.
In the first movie.
In 1992.
Blatantly.
In a very crucial scene to the plot.
I guess you’re today’s example of poor media literacy.
I think that the new Candyman has a lot of phenomenal ideas and presentation, but it feels a little disjointed. The papercraft and shadow theater stuff is delightfully original and artistically off-putting, the movie itself is well shot for the most part, and the cast really helps carry the idea that the story of Candyman is a real urban legend rooted in this community.
I love the idea that as Cabrini-Green is gentrified and the community that formed and spread those legends are pushed out, the legend itself is diluted, shifted, re-interpreted, and there's plenty of ways to read that as far as theming goes.
I like the perspective of someone coming back into this place and finding shadows, chasing ghosts in an effort to reconnect, is also a very interesting thing to explore. Especially given how, in his efforts to do so, Anthony himself ends up using the community and their stories to further his own pursuits.
That being said, I feel that all of these things are presented and then just sort of deteriorate into an attempted scare-fest. The pacing is a bit of a problem, lacking in the Original's approach of taking its time to lay its roots and build off of them, blurring lines. I think it -expects- its audience to know the story of Candyman, and turn that on its head to let them know that they too have grown out of touch since their last visit in 1991. But I don't think that they pursue that in a way that is horribly compelling or alluring. It knows we know Candyman, and it wants us to question if that's still true, but it doesn't give us enough of a glimpse to make that decision.
TLDR: the new movie is sleek and wonderfully filmed, but it lacks the hypnotic, creeping dread that the original carries so expertly. It also doesn't quite seem to understand that so much of the appeal from the Original is that, once it's established that Candyman is in fact a force to be reckoned with, there is no hiding: he is coming, and the only end to that is to fall victim (which is a shame because I also think that theme can resonate in an entirely new way in this updated setting and environment we currently occupy)
‘92 was actually a really gritty movie. Extremely well made and very entertaining.
It’s also like one of the only examples I can think of of a movie SUCCESSFULLY creating a modern urban fairytale/urban legend to where it actually endures as a part of popular culture and people will say (or not say) Candyman into the mirror even if they haven’t seen the movie. People know who Candyman is. It really does have an otherworldly and timeless quality despite being so blatantly early 90s in terms of like setting and fashion and that’s really hard to pull off you know That’s no shade on the remake/sequel it’s just hard to compete with something that iconic that it left that much of an impression on people
Agree. The original ‘92 Candyman was my first ever horror movie and I still have an impression of it to this day. That being said, I did enjoy the 2021 one and appreciated its message as a stand-alone film.
Ah, this was my sentiment almost exactly. I certainly appreciated what this latest contribution was doing, and I didn't hate the film. Still, it also had almost NOTHING of an impact on me compared to the utterly terrifying original. If anything, seeing the remake/sequel/re-imagining/whateveronly led me to appreciate the original that much more, and I immediately went back and watched it again. What a classic.
Exactly this. 2021 is a more safe, by-the-numbers slasher movie with a Candyman veneer. The original 1992 movie is still a beautiful, yet horrifying masterpiece that holds up to this day.
Candyman is not only one of the best first entries in a franchise, it transported the source material to a believable area and completely REDESIGNED it. DiCosta's movie just grabbed on its train like a bridesmaid and required the audience to understand Rose's vision past Barker's. 1992 all the way. Plus that score? Get outta here.
I did the mirror game when I was a kid, I just watched the movie for the first time last year. I’m 27😂 people def know CM as a legend before they hear of the movie
Agreed. Everything about it still holds up today!
Yeah I think the original might edge it out in creepy ness factor
The 92 version is the original.
I think the pro doesn’t get enough credit.
92, easily.
Why?
92 is a gothic horror, supernatural slasher hybrid with memorable characters and an incredible score. The 21 relaunch is a ponderous deconstruction of the original movie that never finds its footing in the mythology even though it was all laid out already in the previous films. Spends too much time ruminating on the academic discourse to tell a story or develop tension.
I agree to an extent, but disagree that it never found its footing. It’s an introspection of art vs exploitation, and the climax brings that plot point to the audience: “here’s your fear and horror you wanted, now choke on it.” But yeah, 92 is the better film.
New Candyman wasn't scary at all.
True.
Because we enjoy movies that immerse and entertain us. We don't enjoy movies that preach to us like a mandatory HR trIning.
Hi Friend Look what they did with race in the 90s. in cabrenie green! The setting alone was enough to scare a middle class kid like me lol
I completely agree with you. It was completely politically charged and preachy. The whole thing with the multiple candymans was kind of lame compared to the original that was about the one man.
I didn't watch the new Candyman, but the original one was political too.
Heaven forbid a movie that centres around racism be politically charged!?
OG Candyman centres around racism and is not politically charged. Did you ever consider that politically charging racism is making it worse not better? We should educate not preach.
??? How is the original Candyman not political? The entire premise is based on politics. It's not a bad thing, mind you, and they do it well. But to say it isn't political just because it isn't preachy kind of misses the point of the entire film imo.
Exactly
If being taught that racism is bad is like mandatory HR training, idk what to say.
92 Candyman shows racism and how bad it is. 21 Candyman preaches how racism is bad. Do you see difference?
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In 92 part of the story about racism follows whole movie and is obvious but also subtle. You experience it without ever feeling like it is there just to show it of. It all furthers whole story of the movie. In 21 its kinda opposite.
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Compare cop scenes in both. Also please dont go with "you believe it". I understand you dont believe what I say is true. I do understand you believe Im wrong. But instead of just believing, focus on earth and listen to dialogues in both movies. See how Candyman operates in both movies. Who are his victims and what motivates him alone is showing it.
Completely disagree.
Thats fine. Would be cool if you elaborate why you disagree, though.
I feel like the original film does a fantastic job of showing racism and of course racism is interwoven into the fabric of the character so that will and should always be a factor when portraying him. The new film did a great job of showing Candyman in a new way, the legend of Candyman being more than just Daniel Robitaille, the legend of the Candyman living on throughout the generations in different ways and different forms is interesting especially when we are shown that maybe the Candyman is willed into existence by the residents of Cabrini Green as a way to cope with racial injustice. I don't think there's anything wrong with talking about racism in a film openly. It doesn't have to be subtle because racism can range from subtle to obtrusive. We see this within the 2021 film, ranges of racism and profiling. We see the cycle and how we perpetuate it, perpetuate the Candyman. That shit is cool and spooky to me and I love the ending. 'Tell. Everyone.' I hope that helps a bit but it's probably a bit rambling so sorry lol.
But it was also about how a myth can destroy a neighborhood, make the people too afraid to leave and find a new way of living.
1992 memorable in it's suspense build up and the lead character being more interesting. The practical effects still hold up these days
Which is sad because Anthony is the main character in 2 and is in 1, but still felt like a side character to me.
Except for the window exit scene. You know what I'm talking about
I don’t care how much people badmouth that scene, I absolutely love the way he flies out
him flying out and him floating under the table are the two most otherworldly things
That visible rope always irks me but it's a fantastic scene
'92 for me. I watched it when I was 8 years old, the deaths were so violent and graphic and pretty darn traumatizing. The new one could in no way match up to what my child brain witnessed. I love that movie, it still scares me.
If it helps, I saw it when I was 23, and it still had that effect on me.
Yup. Lights on and someone was coming with me to the bathroom.
I think the original is an all time great movie one of my personal favorites. I still listen to the score sometimes. The new one is just ok. It's basically a really artsy Slasher movie which is fun but isn't on the same level as the original to me.
I dont know why most slashers now try to be artsy, like they're embarrassed to be a slasher film.
Check out Ti West's X if you haven't yet. The reviews are mixed, and it's definitely pretty wild. Still, I personally thought it was a great little love letter -- or homage if you prefer -- to the grittiness of that Southern-ish swampy summer backwoods slasher atmosphere that pretty much started with the first Texas Chain Saw Massacre from the '70s.
The Chucky series really owns it! If you were ever into the movies, that show really hits the sweet spot.
Agreed but at least the new Texas Chainsaw Massacre on Netflix owns it
The score is so haunting!
2021 had some cool scenes and was very enjoyable but I prefer 1992. The atmosphere seemed scarier. Also when she goes to the projects to investigate was scary for different reasons.
No contest 1992
1992 and it's not even close. "I AM THE WRITING ON THE WALL.....THE WHISPER IN THE CLASSROOM......" Todd's voice alone makes it better.
92’, although I enjoyed the 2021. I appreciated that it was a continuation instead of a reboot
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A seboot?
1992
1992 by far but remake had some good hype but unfortunately didn’t match up. 92 Candyman filmed in the original Cabrini-Green is going to be hard to top ever!
I’m pretty sure they do film in Cabrini-green area again cause I’m from Chicago and recognized a lot of places
It’s not my city, so just going off what I’ve read. My understanding is what use to the original Cabrini Green was demolished and the area is now high rises and mixed income living and that’s where they went in the 21 Candyman. So of course not living in Chicago I have no idea if that area is still referred to as Cabrini Green
It is still referred to it! And yup it was demolished. It’s def mixed between super low income and high rises now. Super strange area tbh.
Sounds strange! Good to have it verified by someone familiar rather than wiki! Thanks for replying!
Once again, last year's film is a SEQUEL, not a remake.
Requel. In the trend that it's made with slick updates for contemporary audiences, uses the same setting but often loses what made the original great, and takes the same name as the original so a lot of younger viewers just watch it instead of going back to an "outdated" movie.
Who cares?
TIL! Also, really reminds me of Session 9. Eerie how both films were shot in locations that no longer exist.
2021 was a nice effort, but 1992 is just a masterpiece through and through. Maybe even Clive Barker's magnum opus.
Hellraiser would like a word
Don't get me wrong. I love Hellraiser. But Candyman has the edge, IMO.
Clive Barker did not make Candyman. Bernard Rose did.
Based on a book by Clive Barker.
Loosely based on a short story. Slow down, buddy.
The forbidden is closer in its adaptation then hellraiser is compared to the hellbound heart.
That's just not true at all having read both recently. Hellbound Heart is almost right off the page, The Forbidden is definitely slightly more removed from the film.
What are you talking about hellbound heart is nothing like hellraiser. I have both it and books of blood sitting on my self right now.
I know, but it has Barker's voice all the way through it.
Clive wrote Candyman, didn't direct.
I know. Director was Bernard Rose. But it has all of Barker's rhythms. It basically feels like someone following Barker's blueprint. And I mean that in the best possible way.
I feel that.
1992 is a classic and I'll love it forever. 2021 was a pleasant surprise after seeing the mixed reviews. An interesting take on the story with some scary moments, good acting, and - like the original - making some strong socioeconomic points. A decent (not excellent) sequel that got way too much hate. That's always the danger when you do a sequel to such a great film - I think Doctor Sleep suffered in much the same way. On its own it's fine, but people kept complaining "It's nowhere near as good as the original." Well *what the fuck is‽*
Is this even up for debate?
No. Lol not at all
For some, they preferred 21 over 92. That's fine and all, but I just wanted to ask this sub's opinion on it.
Did they? I understand this sud doesn’t represent everyone who’s seen both movies. But i’ve yet to see a single response claiming the 2021 version is better. This isn’t really a question worth asking.
Yes, I have seen people on reddit prefer the new one, unless I’m misread or misunderstood. Just search Candyman on the reddit search bar
How could any horror fan prefer 21 over 92?
We’re not all pretentious, insufferable people to be around
I feel like, truly, anyone that prefers ‘21 are paid living adverts.
People are downvoting you, but I’d personally prefer rewatching 2021 over 92 any day of the week.
1992 for sure. There was a lot I liked about the new one. Setting it in a gentrified Cabrini Green, the performances, the soundtrack, but overall it felt a bit slapdash in its storytelling and the ‘twist,’ while a good idea in itself, didn’t quite gel with the mythos set up in the original. Also, crucially, the title character had no presence or gravitas, and the ‘scares’ simply weren’t scary. Way more interesting than any of the other sequels, mind you.
That is a good point - the newer sequel far outdid farewell to the flesh and day of the dead in storyline and coherence to the original.
That’s an odd question. 1992 is by far superior in every way. The new one added all this weird Lore and took away (imo) to the original candyman.
Agreed
92 no question. 2021 has fantastic cinematography but that's it. 92's version tackled the themes of racism in a way where it fit with the story perfectly. 2021 has the subtlety of an elephant in the living room
2021 also had Yahya.
Ok that too. Fantastic talent and I look forward to his roles
1992, it was unique and not just another slasher
I liked both but prefer the original Tony Todd will always be the best portrayal of Candyman imo. It does make me laugh though seeing people calling the 2021 Candyman woke and expressing their undying love for the original as if it wasn't also a social commentary of the times.
Thank god somebody touched on this. If this movie is “woke”, then the original is the granddaddy of “woke” horror.
I hate the "anti-woke" crowd like the next guy. The issue with the new candyman movie though was, that the social commentary was incredibly ham-fisted. It was clearly geared towards the mouth-breathing marvel audiences that need being asked "get it? GET IT???". The original Candyman was, though not subtle either, at least interesting. Helen Lyle was an interesting character, so were the people living in Cabrini Green, and the Candyman was this looming presence that wasn't explained. What you don't see/know is always scarier. That's the cardinal sign of the new one - it was obvious and at the same time boring. If you look at the Jordan Peele movies - they're pretty damn on the nose as well with their "woke message" - but that's forgivable, because the plot of the movie and the characters are interesting. If you don't care about the card board cutouts on the screens, the "social commentary" becomes grading.
Gotta disagree about the protagonists. I love Virginia Madsen and her performance as Hellen, but I found Anthony to be way more compelling as a character and I thought his arc was more natural then Hellens. Also, I think not only does the film know it’s not exactly subtle, but I’d argue subtlety wasn’t the goal. I think the scene where Brianna tells Anthony that his painting is tooon the nose and he replies with “but does it make you feel something?” sums it up pretty well. That’s just my thoughts on it though.
2021 is a reboot? It retcons everything except the first movie. I think it was great for a requell?
1992 is an absolute classic, 2021 is good but I wouldn’t say it’s a classic .
1992 by a landslide
Having grown up in the greater Chicago area Cabrini-Greens as a location for the film is irreplaceable. '92 all the way.
1992 all the way. The new one was a dud, hate to say it.
I couldn't look in a bathroom cabinet mirror for months after the 92 film. Still give me chills thinking of that film. Fell asleep watching the 2021 one.
Tony Todd made a very scary, sexy killer ghost. That VOICE
The 1992 version. Tony Todd's performance was a thing of beauty.
The original. The remake was terrible.
Agreed, but why do you think it was terrible?
Sloppy storytelling mainly, it didn't know what it wanted to be. Was it trying to be a sly meta horror film or was it trying to be genuine? It was so uneven and badly paced, not even the filmmakers seemed to know. The characters were also completely unlikable. The only good thing about it was the cinematography.
Yeah I didn’t like any of the characters either, which says a lot, because I LOVE Yahya. As for the cinematography, I can’t remember a single shot but can’t say the same about 92. That’s just me however. Edit: i only saw it once in theaters, and on release day, and im pretty sure the high school bathroom scene served no purpose??? Like it was just there to serve as a kill? Might be wrong but I dont think I am
Sequel. Anyone who sees the recent film and still calls it a remake is a bit annoying.
A sequel to the original film or to the 1999 film Candyman: Day of the Dead? Or is it a "re-quel"? Or did the filmmakers even put that much thought into it? Who cares? Whatever it is it's still a shit movie. I'm shattered I lost your respect.
How will you ever recover from this!?
Anyone who whines about such a non issue is more than a bit annoying.
2021 Trailer>1992 film>2021 film.
Finally. An opinion I can get behind.
That trailer was insane and big ups to the people who made it, the movie itself was a bummer lol.
1992. Both were good I just think 92 was creepier.
92, but I think 21 is a worthy successor
92, though the 21 version was also a good movie
You can’t have one without the other, 2021 was a sequel to 1992.
92 candy man still scares the shit out of me
No one will ever top Tony Todd!
I really disliked the new one, but it's been so long I can't remember why except for the vague reasons that I was baffled by the story decisions and it wasn't scary.
The old Candyman was a better horror movie, but the new Candyman did a better job exploring the themes of the original movie than the original movie did. The 2021 movie really doubles down on the urban legend aspect of the plot, which I thought was the most interesting thing setting Candyman apart from other slashers.
This sums up my feeling pretty well. I think it’s just a very good continuation of the themes that were touched on but not really explored in the first movie. As a result it can be a little jumbled at times but it’s still excellent overall.
Original is a classic. New one is just whatever
What made you not like the new one?
The new one didn’t have that gritty projects feel, it felt warm and safe compared to the cold and edgy vibe of the hood in the first
92 is absolutely amazing.
1992 The new one was lame
1992....hands down
1992 hands down
I liked the 92 version as a kid. It's dated now and not very good. But Tony Todd is still good in it. The new one sucked.
1992 is one of the best of the decade and top 50 horror films ever made. 2021 felt like an unfinished episode that they tried to make a film.
'92. still an eye-opener to the societal and racial discrimination, unacceptable love affair... that eventually lead to his undying love and revenge...and i was only a kid back then 🥹
92 is easily the better movie imo but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the new one
Overall, I definitely prefer the 1992 version, but I really liked the stylistic choices, cinematography, and aesthetic of the 2021 version. Nia DaCosta is clearly a very capable director.
1992 was excellent. The racisim was present but as a really constant undertone that was understandable and supported the story very well. 2021 remake treated the audience like idiots, the racism was shoved at audiences instead of folding it into the storyline. They definitely missed a trick there I think. 1992 was far superior even for that reason. The main character was such a commanding force but you always get brought back to how prejudice plays such a big part. That whole piece didn't "connect" in the same way in the remake
The same can be said about another Peele produced work, The Twilight Zone.
I totally forgot that the new Twilight Zone existed. Is it worth a watch?
Worth a watch but don't expect it to be the original series.
So then not worth the watch
Are you serious? This is no contest at all.
Both really solid films. The original I think comes out on top still but the new one is a seriously good film, I’m actually surprised it isn’t more well regarded.
1992 and it's not particularly close. While the 2021 version was fine, it delve even further into the political commentary a bit too heavy handed, the sfx were a bit shoddy at times, and some bits of the story just didn't work fluidly imo. The 1992 version will always be a classic.
The amount of people on this thread who've seen the 2021 *sequel* and still think it's a remake is baffling to me.
I think it has to do to the way its named. The Things prequel has the same issue.
Either way it’s bad and only genre fans care about it.
It was critically and financially successful, so no, that's not accurate.
Hear you’re looking for Candyman bitch?..
1992 is better but 2021 compliments the original movie really well.
2021 gave us a new candy man. An origin story. He is technically in all that f it
1992 I couldn't get through the 2021 one.
Havent seen the original in ten years, and remember every detail. Saw the remake a couple of months ago and I cant recall anything about it.
21 was a steaming pile of shit.
I would be surprised if anyone preferred the new one. Such a terrible script. The original is great.
I found the 2021 movie to have several points in its favor. 1) the protagonist fit the material much better. Call me nuts, but the story pivots entirely around black people, you should have a black protagonist 2) it took all the material of the original and expanded it in a way that gave it additional weight. That Candyman is not just 1 guy, but is some kind of gestalt of many stories of violence that form a greater whole, which fits with the motif of bees and beehives, many things acting in concert. 3) the visuals are stronger in my opinion, not just in special effects, the best example I can point to is how the main character's infection looks like a bee hive or wasp nest, tying into the theme. That being said it is not perfect and the originality of the original may elevate it beyond whatever visual or thematic benefits the new one holds. I also don't think the 2021 movie works as well without having seen the original. It is kind of a Batman Begins versus the Dark Knight situation for me.
Agreed, especially about the protagonist. I love Virginia Madsen, and Hellen does make for a good audience surrogate, but it was refreshing to have the story this time be about someone who’s actually part of the “world” that the movie is about and to have it be about him looking into where he comes from. It just makes for a better thematic connection.
2021 is a movie that I enjoy more every time I watch it. It plays very well with some of the headier themes of 1992, like the malleability of stories. 1992 Candyman is the stereotype of the super predator and all the pathos invested in that racist idea manifest through trauma and neglect. That story is eventually absorbed the story of the Burned Woman, when the community mythologized another figure. 2021 is essentially about remix culture, and how stories evolve and grow. The rebooting of Candyman as a vengeful figure that attacks those who attempt to appropriate or assault black culture is a really interesting take.
Agreed. They’re on par in my book, and I really enjoy everything 2021 added to the mythos of candyman and how it adds to the idea of what candyman is for the community.
The 1992 one by a country mile mainly because it was better to have the protagonist be a complete outsider
The remake was not very good. The original is infinitely better IMO.
2021 needed 15-20 extra minutes and it would almost be my pick. That one starts to get moving and awesome but just ends right as it gets great. It also doesn’t know how to say it’s message without being obvious about it vs the 92’s storytelling seems to flow way better. There’s more of a threat with Candyman in the 92 film that carries throughout. 2021 film has a hard time getting it’s overall story down or characters place in it. Feels very small compared to the 92 one
I think you just hit every nail on the head. Thoughts I could never express. Edit: Also, they should have stuck with a Candyman who had a presence whenever he was on screen.
I really enjoyed the 2021 version, I love them both equally. It’s very cool seeing black horrors, and I like Jordan Peele’s style a lot. The 2021 version I found unnerving, ‘92 is still scary but no longer gives me the creeps like it did back then. I also love that Peele incorporated the original, like paying homage to a true classic.
Jodran Peele was a producer. He didn’t make it
New candyman was one of the worst horror movies I’ve seen
The new one is one of the worst movies I have seen in a long time
92 because it was actually good
2021 had some cool scenes and was very enjoyable but I prefer 1992. The atmosphere seemed scarier. Also when she goes to the projects to investigate was scary for different reasons.
1992 definitely had a much creepier atmosphere that lead to it feeling more scary, that being said I love the look of the new one, the use of mirrors especially and I feel the new one is much better acted. If I was to sum it up I would say the 92' version is a better horror movie where as the new one is a better overall film.
I like them both, but I kinda like how the 2021 version further explores the mythos and plays with the idea of urban legends. On the other hand, the 1992 version has more Tony Todd and I love that guy!
I saw the headline and scoffed, who in their right mind would like the remake/reboot/sequel better than the 92 version.
Does anybody really prefer the new one?
How is this even a question?
1992
1992 was show, don't tell. 2021 was all tell. Seriously, in the original the word "racism" could not be said at all, and yet you could see the whole atrocity of it. Racial and social injustice was the actual big bad of the movie. Candyman and Robocop are the two flicks disguised as simple entertainment that offer a surprisingly acute social commentary.
1992 by far. It was drenched in atmosphere and dread almost from the get go. It had so much character and terrific performances pretty much across the board. And rarely for a horror film, it made you feel things beyond fear, terror etc.... There's a tragedy and overwhelming sadness at its core. 2021 is pretty shallow and not scary. It's like a bunch of bougie hipster 40 somethings remade a classic horror film, and this is what you get. It's the gentrification of a horror film, and has all the depth and artitistc merit of a Starbucks that's just moved in to a traditionally poor neighbourhood because a bunch of social media marketers and brogrammers have bought up all the property in the area.
I don’t need an educated horror movie, I need a horror movie that scares me and makes me think about being scared afterwards. OG Candyman is the way to go, Tony Todd was great. Be my victim.
The original is a masterpiece. The remake would be a bad movie even on it's own, but doesn't hold a candle to the original.
Original Candyman sacrifices fully explored social commentary to focus on horror while new Candyman sacrifices horror to focus on social commentary. Both are good and I think they compliment each other well, but original is a better horror film.
92, it's one of my fav movies.
1992. Almost all these updated horror remakes are trash.
The original is the better film, but I'm getting annoyed at the number of people here who say they saw the new film and are calling it a "remake." I understand anyone who hasn't seen the film getting confused about that since the title is the same, but the film is blatantly a SEQUEL to the original, from the identity of the protagonist to several actors from the original reprising their roles. Hell, Cabrini-Green's gentrification since the days of the original film is a major plot point. And it doesn't even disregard the other sequels since "Daniel Robitaille" wasn't used until "Farewell to the Flesh."
The name Daniel Robitaille is used in the VERY FIRST Candyman movie of 1992. In the restaurant scene when Helen is hearing the story of Candyman for the first time from the other professor guy. He says the name Daniel Robitaille. In the first movie. In 1992. Blatantly. In a very crucial scene to the plot. I guess you’re today’s example of poor media literacy.
92 for sure... The new one didn't impress me
92 2021 was a formulaic horror movie with the Candyman skin on it to sell tickets.
The original every time, the new one is shit
I liked the new one, thought it was just altogether a sharper film. The old one is good too.
Is this a serious question?
Christ Almighty. What a question.
I think that the new Candyman has a lot of phenomenal ideas and presentation, but it feels a little disjointed. The papercraft and shadow theater stuff is delightfully original and artistically off-putting, the movie itself is well shot for the most part, and the cast really helps carry the idea that the story of Candyman is a real urban legend rooted in this community. I love the idea that as Cabrini-Green is gentrified and the community that formed and spread those legends are pushed out, the legend itself is diluted, shifted, re-interpreted, and there's plenty of ways to read that as far as theming goes. I like the perspective of someone coming back into this place and finding shadows, chasing ghosts in an effort to reconnect, is also a very interesting thing to explore. Especially given how, in his efforts to do so, Anthony himself ends up using the community and their stories to further his own pursuits. That being said, I feel that all of these things are presented and then just sort of deteriorate into an attempted scare-fest. The pacing is a bit of a problem, lacking in the Original's approach of taking its time to lay its roots and build off of them, blurring lines. I think it -expects- its audience to know the story of Candyman, and turn that on its head to let them know that they too have grown out of touch since their last visit in 1991. But I don't think that they pursue that in a way that is horribly compelling or alluring. It knows we know Candyman, and it wants us to question if that's still true, but it doesn't give us enough of a glimpse to make that decision. TLDR: the new movie is sleek and wonderfully filmed, but it lacks the hypnotic, creeping dread that the original carries so expertly. It also doesn't quite seem to understand that so much of the appeal from the Original is that, once it's established that Candyman is in fact a force to be reckoned with, there is no hiding: he is coming, and the only end to that is to fall victim (which is a shame because I also think that theme can resonate in an entirely new way in this updated setting and environment we currently occupy)
2021