Dustin Gandof
Introduction
Today, we are going to explore the similarities between the horror film ‘Candyman’ and the upcoming Disney film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. To help us understand these connections, we will be looking at comments made by a director familiar with both projects.
Who is the Director?
The director in question is Nia DaCosta, who is responsible for helming the new ‘Candyman’ movie as well as working on the upcoming ‘Captain Marvel’ sequel. In a recent interview with The New York Times, she shared her thoughts on the similarities and influences of these two films.
‘Candyman’ and ‘Peter Pan’: Both About Storytelling
One of the main links between these two movies is their focus on the power of storytelling. Candyman himself is a character who has been passed down through generations of urban legends, and his story is used to scare children and adults alike.
Similarly, Peter Pan is a character who has lasted for over a century, appearing in books, plays, and numerous film adaptations. His story is one that has been told and retold, adapting to fit the cultural and societal shifts of each era.
The Importance of History and Community
Another common theme that DaCosta identified is the importance of history and community. In ‘Candyman’, the story takes place in a historically black neighborhood in Chicago, where the legend of the Candyman has been passed down as a warning against the gentrification taking place.
With ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’, the story is transported to a more magical setting, but still focuses on the relationships between the children of the Darling family and the fantastical characters they encounter. These themes of connection and community are crucial to both of these films.
Closing Thoughts
So, while it may seem like a stretch to compare a spooky horror movie to a beloved classic tale, there are definitely some interesting similarities to be found. Through the lens of director Nia DaCosta, we can see how these two seemingly disparate stories are actually connected by a few key themes. Whether you’re a fan of one or both of these works, it’s worth taking a closer look at what makes them tick.
