Candyman - A Slasher of Innovation
MGM
The Candyman can, so says the famous song from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Last night, my partner asked how I wished to spend our evening together (she’s lovely enough to offer me the choice). I, inevitably, chose the cinema. Candyman was out, and I was itching to see it.
I’ve been drawn to horrors lately, for one reason or another. I put it down to my somewhat indifferent knowledge of the genre, rather than some recently developed depravity. By that, I mean there’s a wealth of new material for me to explore - an uncommon occurrence for a film buff such as myself, and that makes for an exciting proposition.
This rather cultivated slasher sequel features the influence of Jordan Peele - credited as both a writer and producer. His tagline “from the mind of …” is one I have come to admire. His films Get Out and Us showcase a fresh, dynamic perspective, eager to interweave with the conventions of psychological horror with dark humour and sophisticated satire.
Equally as encouraging is the name Nia DaCosta in the director’s chair, who, through both gender and race, represents two criminally under-represented demographics in modern cinema. Indeed, the subject of race is a prominent theme throughout Candyman, both symbolically and from a very literal sense. Yahya Abdul Mateen II leads a cast of predominantly black actors exploring systemic racism, police brutality, racial inequality, and class divide in Chicago, USA. These are themes prevalent in the era of the Black Lives Matter movement.
The gentrification of Chicago’s Cabrini Green projects, which served as both a central theme and location in the original Candyman, is likewise integral to this sequel.
Like any sharply written script, this a film with something to say. The Latin phrase "Ars gratia artist," translating to “art for art's sake," features not just a reference to co-producers MGM’s logo and its accompanying motto, but is relevant thematically, highlighting the connection between art, violence, and the supernatural within this film's narrative, as well as linking back to the beginning of the candyman legend.
Ultimately, this is smart filmmaking that seeks to innovate the slasher genre without sacrificing its ties to the original film. A manipulation of genre conventions is supported by a distinctive visual style and imaginative use of camera angles that depict the Candyman’s ghostly and frequently horrific presence. Predictably, gore flows out of this one like a seeping wound. There’s enough to feel even vaguely nauseous. Yet, the film’s insightful, supernatural elements and often artful style ensure it’s purposeful and counterbalanced in a manner that lands largely on its feet.
***