Steven Helmer Publications

I just learned today is the 32nd anniversary of us losing comedy legend John Candy (I honestly didn't realize it had been that long). He was a comedian I grew up watching and one of those actors who could steal the spotlight even in a minor role. So, to honor his memory, here are my five favorite John Candy movies. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987) When someone mentions Candy, this is always the first movie that comes to mind. His Del Griffith character is funny, especially when paired up with Steve Martin 's Neal Page, but also manages to have a few surprises up his sleeve throughout the film as well. Spaceballs (1987) There are a ton of memorable characters in this Mel Brooks film, and I can't wait to see them in the long-awaited sequel, but Candy's half human/half dog character Barf is the one that arguably kicks this up a notch, whether it's from his various one-liners or the physical comedy. National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) Candy isn't the star o...

Synopsis: A group of Wild West settlers realize they made a mistake and decide they want to take a wagon train back to their hometowns in the east. They hire a cowboy with a checkered past to be their wagon trail master and, almost immediately, he makes decisions that cause them to question his leadership skills. To make matters worse, a businessman, worried about how news of the travelers’ journey will cause the profitable western land rush to taper off, decides to do everything he can to stop them. Who's in it?  The movie stars John Candy , Ed Lauter , Richard Lewis , Ellen Greene, Don Lake, Steve Eastin and Robin McKee. Review : It has been a long while since I’ve seen this movie (one of John Candy’s last films) and, to be honest, I wasn’t really making much of an effort to find time to watch it. However, I had a chance to do just that last night while waiting for the kids to get ready for bed and my wife to get her shower out of the way before watching another film with her....

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and, as I consider the things I should be thankful for, I am going to include movies on that last (albeit toward the bottom underneath things like family, health, etc.) for the momentary escape they give me from the realities of life. While admittedly not as many as Christmas-themed films or even some other holidays, there are quite a few movies that do take place during the Thanksgiving season. Some make it a focal point while others only mention it in passing. However, there are still some decent ones all the same. Here is my list of three favorites: Trains, Planes and Automobiles (1987):   Yeah, I know, picking this movie is cliche. However, the only reason it is cliche is because it is a great film. Steve Martin and John Candy are at their best and are a memorable dual. Plus, mixed in with the numerous comedy gags throughout, there is still a twist at the end that is both sad but also heartwarming. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009):   An...