7 Best John Candy Movies That Aren’t Strictly Comedies

John Candy is beloved for his hilarious performances, but his talent went much deeper than just making people laugh. He was a truly gifted comedic actor, known for his cleverness, kindness, and ability to bring depth and humanity to every role. Whether it was the wild energy of Uncle Buck or the touching story in *Planes, Trains and Automobiles*, Candy had a remarkable way of delivering lines that stayed with audiences long after the credits rolled.

Though John Candy was a comedic master, he was also a remarkably versatile actor. He could seamlessly transition into dramatic, fantastical, suspenseful, or even politically charged roles. While he wasn’t often seen outside of comedy, he proved himself capable in more serious and subtle performances. From a questionable lawyer in *JFK* to a bank employee involved in crime in *The Silent Partner*, and even a supporting role in the romantic fantasy *Splash*, Candy consistently brought depth and complexity to his characters.

Most people remember John Candy for his funny roles, but he showed a lot of range as an actor. Here are 7 of his films that aren’t just comedies, and are worth watching.

‘The Last Polka’ (1985)

The Last Polka is a funny, fictional documentary about the Shmenge Brothers, Yosh and Stan, two accordion players from the imaginary country of Leutonia. The film shows how they went from playing small local shows to becoming internationally famous, and culminates in their farewell concert. Using a mix of fake interviews, concert clips, and glimpses behind the scenes, the movie is a heartwarming story about two musicians and their dedication to their craft and each other.

Layered Writing and Affectionate Satire

Despite being labeled a comedy, *The Last Polka* explores the touching themes of what people leave behind and the dedication to craft. While the film uses satire, it’s structured like a genuine music documentary, giving it surprising emotional depth. Candy’s character, Yosh, is the more reserved and thoughtful brother, often overshadowed by his sibling Sam. However, his quiet moments and perfect comedic timing are incredibly effective. He and Levy have a natural connection, and their performances feel authentic, like two musicians who have played together for years.

John Blanchard’s movie strikes a smart balance between poking fun at and genuinely appreciating its subjects. The film’s structure also provides opportunities for heartfelt moments, like when the characters reminisce about their younger years or talk about what retirement means to them. Originally shown on HBO, *The Last Polka* quickly gained a dedicated following among fans of *SCTV*.

‘Lost and Found’ (1979)

Set in the beautiful Swiss Alps, *Lost and Found* tells the story of Adam, an American professor, and Tricia, a British secretary, who find love after a chance encounter – they meet following a car accident! Their relationship is filled with sweet moments, funny misunderstandings, and emotional ups and downs. The film explores how these two very different people try to create a life together, despite their personal challenges and contrasting personalities.

Showcase of John Candy’s Versatility

John Candy has a small but memorable part in *Lost and Found*, playing a Canadian tourist who adds a unique flavor to the story. Though he’s not on screen for long, his character effectively points out the cultural clashes within the film. While the movie, directed by Melvin Frank, is generally a lighthearted romantic comedy, it remains realistic and avoids becoming overly silly. Candy’s performance works perfectly with the film’s overall pace and tone.

He adds depth and realism to the story’s setting, and his scenes feel genuine and well-timed. While the film generally received poor reviews – famously criticized by Roger Ebert – *Lost and Found* still stands out as an interesting example of romance from the late 1970s.

‘Delirious’ (1991)

In the comedy *Delirious*, Jack Gable (John Candy) is a soap opera writer whose personal life is just as chaotic as the stories he creates. After an accident, Jack finds himself *inside* the world of his show, Ashford Falls, and discovers that anything he writes actually happens. At first, he enjoys being able to control events, especially because it helps him win over the character Rachel (Emma Samms). But he quickly learns that having power over a world doesn’t mean you understand how it works. As Jack changes the storyline to make his life better, increasingly strange things begin to occur.

Feel Good Without Going Over the Top

This unusual and romantic film, starring John Candy, is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. Though often labeled a comedy, it’s actually a thought-provoking blend of genres. Candy plays Jack, a character caught in a love triangle, facing dangerous plots, and struggling with his own self-doubt, all while trying to break free from a world of his own making. The movie explores themes of control and desire, and Candy delivers a compelling performance as a flawed character haunted by regret. Director Tom Mankiewicz masterfully balances humor and heartfelt emotion, largely thanks to Candy’s talent.

‘The Clown Murders’ (1976)

Directed by Martyn Burke, *The Clown Murders* takes place in suburban Ontario and centers around four friends – Charlie, Philip, Ollie (John Candy), and Rosie. They devise a Halloween prank, dressing as clowns to disrupt a profitable land deal by kidnapping the wife of a wealthy developer. However, their seemingly harmless joke turns dangerous when a mysterious figure, also masked as a clown, begins to pursue them. As fear and suspicion grow within the group, they must confront the repercussions of their actions.

A Dramatic Turn in a Gripping Thriller

Before John Candy was known for his hilarious roles, *The Clown Murders* showed he could also be a serious actor. This Canadian thriller is dark and unsettling, building suspense through unclear morals and a creepy atmosphere, leading to an ending that leaves you thinking. Candy plays a subtle but impactful role as Ollie, creating a sense of unease as a joke takes a wrong turn. While the film didn’t receive much positive attention (with a 19% rating on Rotten Tomatoes), it’s still worth noting for its spooky feel and for being an early example of Candy’s acting ability.

‘Splash’ (1984)

Ron Howard’s film *Splash* tells the story of Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks), a man who never forgot a strange girl he met in the ocean as a child. Years later, after a near-drowning experience off Cape Cod, he’s saved by Madison (Daryl Hannah), who is actually a mermaid. She comes ashore to find him, and their relationship blossoms in New York City. Madison tries to adjust to human life while keeping her true identity a secret. Allen’s brother, Freddie (John Candy), provides comic relief, but also shows real support when he sees how serious Allen is about Madison.

Romantic Fantasy With a Beating Heart

While *Splash* is often remembered for its playful story, it’s also a surprisingly heartfelt film. Director Ron Howard balances the fantasy elements well, keeping things light without feeling empty, and the connection between Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah is truly touching. John Candy’s character, Freddie, has a more significant role than many realize, and his comedic timing is perfect – especially in scenes like the extended racquetball confession where he points out Allen’s feelings for Madison. *Splash* was a major hit in theaters and even received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, which helped establish the new Touchstone Pictures label.

‘The Silent Partner’ (1978)

The movie *The Silent Partner* takes place during the busy holiday season in a Toronto mall. It follows Miles Cullen, a quiet bank teller, who discovers a robbery plan and cleverly tries to foil the thief. When Miles spots a strange withdrawal notice, he secretly sets aside a large amount of cash. However, the robber, Reikle, is dangerous and unstable, quickly realizing he’s been tricked and launching a terrifying psychological battle.

A Realistic, Cold-Blooded Thriller

In *The Silent Partner*, John Candy delivers a memorable performance as Simonson, a bank coworker who provides a sense of normalcy and reliability. He’s not the comedic focus, but his quiet loyalty and everyday interactions make the bank setting feel authentic and heighten the tension as danger rises. The film, directed by Daryl Duke and written by Curtis Hanson (based on Anders Bodelsen’s novel), maintains a gripping level of suspense throughout, making the plot twists and Christopher Plummer’s performance particularly effective and deserving of the praise they receive.

‘JFK’ (1991)

Oliver Stone’s *JFK* is a sweeping thriller that revisits the assassination of President Kennedy. The film follows New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison (played by Kevin Costner) as he grows convinced the official explanation of the events is a lie. He begins his own investigation, uncovering a complex conspiracy and facing opposition from powerful government forces. The movie blends intense courtroom scenes with recreations of historical events, culminating in a final speech that challenges viewers to question what they believe to be true.

A Dramatic Turn in a Cinematic Masterpiece

The film skillfully blends real historical footage with recreated scenes, building a feeling of intense suspicion. John Candy makes a brief but unforgettable appearance as Dean Andrews Jr., a flashy lawyer who plays a crucial role in the case. His scenes are marked by his ability to avoid direct answers and a captivating personality. Despite a strong cast including Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman, and Sissy Spacek, Candy’s unexpected performance truly shines, as he confidently steps outside of his usual comedic roles. *JFK* received eight Academy Award nominations and won two Oscars.

2025-10-15 00:35