Candyman

As a sequel to the chilling 1992 classic, Candyman (2021) is described as a “spiritual successor" that reinvents a new, contemporary narrative that smartly unpacks societal issues, while still maintaining its horror roots. Set in the once lawless section of Chicago's Near North Side, the Cabrini-Green housing projects, now gentrified into an upscale neighborhood of soaring condos and artisan eateries, the film delves into the terrifying urban myths and deep-seated fears that exist beneath the city's new polished veneer.

In this updated version, Candyman is directed by Nia DaCosta, whose directorial talents lie in the incredible knack for creating a gripping narrative that expertly arouses fear and intrigue. Jordan Peele and Win Rosenfeld joined forces to co-produce and co-write the screenplay, layering it with their distinctive and profound commentary on societal structures and racial tensions. The film seamlessly blends the menacing suspense of the cult classic, with a rather subtle approach towards tackling themes of racial discrimination, police brutality, and the ugly face of gentrification hidden under the guise of urban renewal.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, applauded for his show-stealing performance in HBO's Watchmen, stars as the central character, Anthony McCoy. He's an ambitious visual artist seeking relevance and inspiration in his career, which he finds within the depths of the twisted legend of the Candyman. Teyonah Parris stars as his supportive and loving partner Brianna Cartwright, an art gallery director who is wrestling with her own past while coping with Anthony's increasing obsession with the legend.

Throughout the film, Anthony's obsessive exploration of the Candyman lore and Cabrini-Green's grim past leads him on a dangerous path. The legend, once confined to hushed whispers and terrified murmurs in the dark, is now thrust into the spotlight, acquiring a dangerous relevance. The distant threat of the supernatural evolves into a nightmarish reality as the lines blur between Anthony's obsession and the eruption of eerie, inexplicable phenomena.

Visual cues and sound production play a significant role in constructing the terrifying arc of this film. The cinematography presents Chicago in a menacing, hauntingly beautiful light, creating an unsettling contrast between the facade of a swiftly gentrifying world and the violence of its forgotten history. The judicious use of shadows persistently evokes a thrilling sense of dread, while the sheer sound of buzzing bees is enough to set your heart racing. The film's haunting score, interspersed with periods of silence, works to build the atmospheric tension meticulously, pulling viewers deeper into the invigorating fear.

Complementing the raw horror and nerve-wracking suspense is a layer of deep social commentary that hits close to home. It invites the audience to confront the harsh reality of erasure, be it in the context of systemic racial injustice, police brutality, or the historical erasure of marginalized voices in the face of gentrification.

With the 2021 Candyman, the filmmakers transform the horror movie genre into an interactive space for social cognizance, forcing viewers to introspect and question the structures that permeate our society. The film's ability to infuse a classic urban legend with profound contemporary concerns is what sets it apart from a regular horror film.

The performances by the lead actors are powerful, adding further depth to the narrative. Abdul-Mateen’s portrayal of his character’s psychological descent is convincingly haunting, while Parris shines in a role that requires a complex balance of strength and vulnerability. Nathan Stewart-Jarrett stands out in a commendable supporting role, adding moments of levity in an otherwise dark narrative.

Candyman (2021) is, therefore, not a mere retelling of an old legend. It crafts a fresh narrative that's simultaneously potent social commentary and heart-racing horror. It's a film that balances the delicate threads of chilling horror, sharp social criticism, and pertinent storytelling, managing to raise questions that linger long after the credits roll. If you're a horror enthusiast or someone who favors films with depth, Candyman is a must-watch.