John Candy’s Forgotten Action Comedy ‘Armed and Dangerous’ Resurfaces
UPDATE: John Candy’s lesser-known action comedy, Armed and Dangerous, is making waves as fans rediscover its unique blend of humor and action nearly 37 years after its release on August 15, 1986. This film, which showcases Candy’s attempt to break into the action genre, has sparked renewed interest and conversations online.
In a climate where buddy cop films like Beverly Hills Cop and Running Scared dominated the box office, Armed and Dangerous offered a fresh take by pairing Candy with fellow comedian Eugene Levy. However, the movie has been largely panned, earning a dismal 9% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics argue that the film misfires by forcing Candy’s beloved persona into a role that contrasts sharply with his warm comedic style.
The plot follows disgraced LAPD cop Frank Dooley, played by Candy, who finds himself teamed up with defense attorney Norman Kane, portrayed by Levy. After being framed by corrupt detectives, the duo embarks on a chaotic journey filled with hijinks as they attempt to prove their worth in a private security firm. Their misadventures include a memorable scene where they must navigate a sex shop in disguise.
Despite its shortcomings, the film has moments that hint at the comedic chemistry between the two leads. However, it fails to capture the magic of their earlier work on SCTV. Instead, Armed and Dangerous leans heavily on slapstick humor reminiscent of the Police Academy franchise, which detracts from the film’s potential.
Director Mark L. Lester struggled to balance the film’s comedic elements with action sequences, ultimately leading to a product that left audiences underwhelmed. Candy, known for his charm in films like Splash and Planes, Trains and Automobiles, was reportedly constrained creatively, a fact he later lamented in interviews.
As fans revisit Armed and Dangerous, it’s a reminder of Candy’s versatility and the challenges he faced in expanding his career. While this film may not have defined his legacy, it certainly highlights the risks comedians often take when stepping outside their comfort zones.
What’s next? Expect renewed discussions and potential re-evaluations of Armed and Dangerous as more viewers discover this hidden gem. As Candy would have wanted, his spirit continues to resonate, inviting everyone to appreciate the humor and heart he brought to the big screen.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and more fans share their thoughts on Candy’s adventurous foray into action comedy!
