The Best (& Worst) John Candy Movies
- 1John Candy, Amy Madigan, Jean Louisa Kelly
John Candy stars in the 1989 comedy Uncle Buck, directed by John Hughes, which showcases Candy's remarkable ability to bring warmth and humor to a character. The film follows the misadventures of the titular Uncle Buck, an unreliable but lovable bachelor who's tasked with taking care of his nieces and nephew while their parents are away. Through a series of comedic mishaps and heart-to-heart conversations, Uncle Buck manages to win over his initially skeptical charges, displaying Candy's knack for blending humor with genuine emotion. This classic family comedy stands as one of John Candy's most memorable roles.
More Uncle Buck
- #106 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #35 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #23 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 2Steve Martin, John Candy, Laila Robins
This quintessential '80s comedy features John Candy alongside Steve Martin in a hilarious tale of mismatched travelers trying to make it home for Thanksgiving. Directed by John Hughes, Planes, Trains and Automobiles captures the essence of chaos-filled travel adventures with impeccable comedic timing from both leads. As Del Griffith, a boisterous shower curtain ring salesman, Candy provides laugh-out-loud moments that perfectly contrast Martin's uptight executive character. This timeless buddy comedy remains etched in cinema history as one of Candy's finest performances.
- #225 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #49 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #12 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 3Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Stephanie Faracy
The Great Outdoors, released in 1988 and directed by Howard Deutch, stars John Candy alongside Dan Aykroyd in a comedy that encapsulates classic family vacation mishaps. When two families share a lakeside cabin for their summer getaway, hilarity ensues as they navigate unexpected challenges posed by nature and each other. As Chet Ripley, Candy brings his trademark charm and warmth to this fun-filled film that highlights both familial bonds and the beauty of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
More The Great Outdoors- #457 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #108 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #88 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 4Bill Murray, Harold Ramis, Warren Oates
John Candy joins Bill Murray in this 1981 military-themed comedy directed by Ivan Reitman. As Dewey Oxberger, nicknamed "Ox," Candy delivers laughs through his humorous portrayal of an overweight, lovable loser who enlists in the army alongside Murray's character. Their antics during basic training provide some unforgettable comedy scenes while showcasing Candy's ability to shine in an ensemble cast.
More Stripes- #164 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #110 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #270 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 5John Candy, Richard Crenna, Karen Austin
In this 1985 Carl Reiner-directed comedy film, John Candy portrays Jack Chester - an overworked air traffic controller who's forced to take a vacation. Summer Rental follows the Chester family as they embark on their beach vacation, only to face a series of comedic obstacles and misadventures. Candy's performance as the hapless yet determined father is both endearing and entertaining, proving once again his ability to infuse humor into heartfelt moments.
More Summer Rental- #255 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #21 of 96 onThe 90+ Best Movies Of 1985, Ranked
- #83 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 6Mel Brooks, John Candy, Rick Moranis
Mel Brooks' 1987 satirical sci-fi comedy Spaceballs features John Candy as Barf, a half-man, half-dog sidekick to Lone Starr (played by Bill Pullman). This hilarious spoof of popular science fiction franchises showcases Candy's talent for physical comedy and witty one-liners while poking fun at genre conventions. The film remains a beloved cult classic with fans appreciating its blend of absurdist humor and slapstick gags brought to life by talented actors like Candy.
More Spaceballs- Dig Deeper...10 Behind-The-Scenes Stories About 'Spaceballs'
- #82 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #45 of 178 onThe 150+ Best Movies With Aliens
- 7Leon, Doug E. Doug, Malik Yoba
This heartening 1993 sports comedy film tells the true story of Jamaica's first bobsled team competing in the Winter Olympics after being coached by a disgraced former Olympian played by John Candy. Directed by Jon Turteltaub, Cool Runnings offers laughter and inspiration through its well-developed characters and engaging plot. In one of his final film roles before his untimely passing, John Candy shines as Irv Blitzer - leaving audiences with a lasting impression of his commitment to creating emotionally resonant performances.
More Cool Runnings- #38 of 100 onThe 100 Best Disney Channel Original Movies
- #37 of 117 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #24 of 207 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
- 8John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, James Brown
The legendary musical-comedy The Blues Brothers (1980) features John Candy in a supporting role as Burton Mercer, a parole officer pursuing the titular duo played by Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi. Directed by John Landis, this action-packed film showcases an array of musical talents alongside its comedic brilliance. Candy's performance as the persistent lawman adds depth to a character that could have easily been overlooked in such a star-studded ensemble.
More The Blues Brothers- #31 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #175 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #48 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- 9Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Christie Brinkley
John Candy makes a memorable appearance in this classic 1983 comedy about the Griswold family's disastrous cross-country road trip to Walley World theme park. Directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes, Vacation is filled with iconic moments of slapstick humor and witty dialogue that have stood the test of time. As Lasky, the bumbling security guard who faces off against Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase), Candy provides yet another example of his talent for elevating minor characters into memorable roles.
More Vacation- #136 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #161 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #32 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- 10Richard Pryor, John Candy, Rick Moranis
In this 1985 comedy directed by Walter Hill, John Candy plays Spike Nolan - best friend to Richard Pryor's character Monty Brewster. The film follows Brewster as he attempts to spend $30 million in 30 days to inherit his great-uncle's fortune of $300 million. With Candy providing comedic support, Brewster's Millions delivers laughs while addressing themes like consumerism and the pitfalls of sudden wealth.
More Brewster's Millions- Dig Deeper...List of Films Scored By Ry Cooder
- And Deeper...Famous Movies Filmed in New York City
- #109 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 11Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
In this beloved 1990 holiday film directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes, John Candy makes a memorable cameo as Gus Polinski, the "Polka King of the Midwest." Though his role is small, Candy's warmth and humor shine through as he helps Macaulay Culkin's character's mother (Catherine O'Hara) race home to her accidentally abandoned son. Home Alone showcases Candy's ability to make a lasting impression even in brief appearances.
More Home Alone- Dig Deeper...Joe Pesci Stories From Behind The Scenes Of ‘Home Alone’
- #2 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #8 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 12John Candy, Jeffrey Jones, Annie Potts
This 1989 comedy directed by Paul Flaherty features John Candy as Harry Crumb, a bumbling private detective tasked with solving a high-profile kidnapping case. The film highlights Candy's talent for physical comedy and slapstick humor while showcasing his comedic timing. Despite mixed reviews, Who's Harry Crumb? has since gained cult status among fans of '80s comedies and remains an entertaining showcase of Candy's range as an actor.
More Who's Harry Crumb?- #42 of 83 onThe Best Movies Of 1989, Ranked
- #130 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #66 of 544 on500+ Movies And Shows With Who In The Title
- 13John Candy, Eugene Levy, Robert Loggia
John Candy stars alongside Eugene Levy in this 1986 action-comedy directed by Mark L. Lester, playing Frank Dooley - an ex-cop turned security guard who stumbles upon a criminal conspiracy within his new company. This buddy cop-style film allows Candy to display both his comedic talents and his knack for on-screen chemistry with co-stars like Levy. Armed and Dangerous offers laughs along with adrenaline-fueled action sequences that keep audiences entertained from start to finish.
- 14Tom Hanks, Daryl Hannah, John Candy
In this 1984 romantic comedy directed by Ron Howard, John Candy plays Freddie Bauer - the womanizing brother of Tom Hanks' character Allen Bauer, who falls in love with a mermaid played by Daryl Hannah. With its fantastical premise, witty dialogue, and heartfelt performances from the ensemble cast (including Candy), Splash became an instant classic that showcased the actors' versatility across genres while exploring themes of love, identity, and acceptance.
More Splash- #377 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #98 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #36 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- 15John Candy, Maureen O'Hara, Ally Sheedy
John Candy takes on a more dramatic role in this 1991 romantic dramedy directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes. Playing Danny Muldoon, a Chicago police officer who falls in love despite his overbearing mother's disapproval, Candy's performance is both tender and humorous, proving his ability to excel in various forms of storytelling. The film demonstrates the depth of Candy's acting abilities beyond comedy.
- 16John Candy, Mariel Hemingway, Emma Samms
In this 1991 comedy directed by Tom Mankiewicz, John Candy plays Jack Gable - a soap opera writer who wakes up in the world he created after suffering a head injury. As he navigates life within his fictional town, Jack must face absurd situations brought on by his own writing while searching for true love. Delirious showcases Candy's comedic talents through physical humor and witty one-liners as he brings life to his quirky character.
- 17Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
Oliver Stone's critically acclaimed 1991 political thriller JFK features John Candy in a surprising yet effective dramatic role as Dean Andrews Jr., an eccentric New Orleans attorney involved in the investigation into President Kennedy's assassination. While not primarily known for serious roles, Candy delivers an impressive performance that adds depth to Stone's complex narrative, demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
More JFK- #739 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #156 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #130 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 18Thomas Ian Nicholas, Gary Busey, Albert Hall
In this heartwarming 1993 sports comedy directed by Daniel Stern, John Candy makes a cameo appearance as Cliff Murdoch - the announcer for the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Though brief, Candy's presence adds humor to this family-friendly film about a young boy who acquires an extraordinary pitching talent after recovering from an injury.
More Rookie of the Year- #63 of 207 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
- #16 of 93 onThe All-Time Best Baseball Films
- #12 of 12 onClassic '90s Kids Movies You Forgot Are Actually Super Messed Up
- 19Alan Alda, John Candy, Rhea Perlman
Released posthumously in 1995, this satirical comedy directed by Michael Moore stars John Candy as Sheriff Bud Boomer - a small-town lawman who leads an invasion of Canada after being manipulated by the US government. The film blends political satire with slapstick humor, showcasing Candy's talent for comedic timing and providing audiences with one of his final feature film performances.
- 20Bob Newhart, Eva Gabor, John Candy
This animated Disney sequel released in 1990 features John Candy voicing Wilbur - a lovable albatross assisting two mice on a mission to save an endangered golden eagle and a kidnapped young boy. Candy's ability to bring warmth and humor to his character through voice acting alone demonstrates his impressive range as an actor.
- #99 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #234 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #66 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- 21Tom Hanks, John Candy, Rita Wilson
In this 1985 comedy directed by Nicholas Meyer, John Candy plays Tom Tuttle - a zealous volunteer serving alongside characters played by Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson in the Peace Corps stationed in Thailand. Volunteers features an entertaining mix of humor, romance, and action-adventure while highlighting Candy's flair for playing quirky yet lovable characters.
- 22Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Steve Martin
John Candy makes a brief but unforgettable appearance as Wink Wilkinson in this iconic 1986 musical horror-comedy directed by Frank Oz. His portrayal of the eccentric radio host adds to the film's overall charm and showcases his knack for creating memorable supporting characters in an ensemble cast.
- Dig Deeper...Every Song in Little Shop of Horrors, Ranked by Singability
- #34 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #363 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 23Chevy Chase, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy
This dark comedy from 1991 directed by Dan Aykroyd features John Candy in dual roles as Dennis Valkenheiser - a mild-mannered police officer - and Eldona - his mute sister who falls for Chevy Chase's character after he becomes entangled in their strange family's affairs. Despite its mixed reception at the time, Nothing but Trouble has since become a cult favorite due to its zany humor and unique visual style.
- 24Harvey Atkin, Thor Bishopric, Rodger Bumpass
In this animated sci-fi anthology film from 1981, John Candy lends his voice talents to several colorful characters such as Den - an awkward teen who becomes a muscular hero in a parallel world. Heavy Metal is notable for its adult-oriented content and groundbreaking animation style, with Candy's vocal contributions adding to its distinct appeal.
More Heavy Metal- #332 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #250 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #31 of 75 onThe Best Movies Of 1981
- 25John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Lorraine Gary
Steven Spielberg's 1979 war comedy features John Candy as Private Foley - a soldier trying to defend Los Angeles during the chaos of World War II. The film boasts an ensemble cast of comedic legends, including Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, with Candy shining in his supporting role.
- 26Kevin Bacon, Elizabeth McGovern, Alec Baldwin
In this John Hughes-directed dramedy released in 1988, John Candy appears in an uncredited cameo role as Chet Ripley - the same character he played in The Great Outdoors. His brief appearance adds a humorous touch to this heartfelt exploration of marriage and parenthood starring Kevin Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern.
More She's Having a Baby- Dig Deeper...Every Major Romance Movie
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- #80 of 122 onThe Best Movies Of 1988
- 27John Candy, Richard Lewis, John C. McGinley
John Candy's final film role before his untimely passing came in this 1994 western comedy directed by Peter Markle. As James Harlow - a wagon master leading settlers on a perilous journey back east from California - Candy delivers laughs alongside Richard Lewis and other talented comedians while demonstrating his enduring charm even during the twilight of his career.
More Wagons East!- #269 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #8 of 11 onBehind-The-Scenes Facts About John Candy Movies That Made Us Miss Him
- #37 of 58 onThe Best '90s Westerns, Ranked
- 28John Candy, Gilbert Gottfried, Burgess Meredith
In this zany 1988 comedy directed by Michael Dinner, Bobcat Goldthwait stars alongside John Candy (in voiceover) as Don the talking horse who helps turn around Goldthwait's character's failing investments. Though not critically acclaimed upon release, Hot to Trot showcases Candy's distinctive voice talents and comedic sensibilities.
More Hot to Trot- Dig Deeper...List of All Movies Released in 1988
- And Deeper...Films Scored By Danny Elfman
- #101 of 122 onThe Best Movies Of 1988
- 29Frank Whaley, Jennifer Connelly, Dermot Mulroney
Written by John Hughes and directed by Bryan Gordon, this 1991 comedy features an uncredited appearance from John Candy as the target store's night janitor who stumbles upon a pair of young adults (played by Frank Whaley and Jennifer Connelly) locked inside overnight. His brief cameo adds yet another layer of humor to this quirky coming-of-age tale.
- 30
Sesame Street Presents Follow That Bird
Chevy Chase, John Candy, George LucasThis charming children's movie released in 1985 features John Candy as a state trooper tasked with hunting down Big Bird after he runs away from foster care. His performance brings humor to this heartwarming story that teaches valuable lessons about family, friendship, and acceptance.
- #39 of 96 onThe 90+ Best Movies Of 1985, Ranked
- #187 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #144 of 188 onThe 180+ Top Kids Movies
