Although probably eclipsed by a few more recent horror films, this really does make you hide behind cushions, jump out of your skin and definitely never say Candy Man 5 times in the mirror!! The premise is simple but is well acted and the scene setting, along with the mounting tension, provides a good horror film which does all it promises to do. Probably best not to take it too seriously though otherwise you'll lose interest. Girlfriends of mine at uni went to watch this together and then proceeded to run 4 red lights whilst getting home in the car just because the driver didn't want to look in the mirror!! True story. It you let it, it is that good!!

Barker and Rose deliver in this classic horror. Based on an old tale says that if you say "candyman" five time whilst looking into a mirror, then "he" will appear behind you and cut you in two. The heroine of this story is writing a thesis on such tales. During her investigations, she encounters the "candyman". Is she crazy?! A very powerful, tense and dynamic thriller. Well worth a fiver.

Clive Barker is a writer of quite astounding brilliance. His books expertly blend fantasy and horror to outstanding success - full of imagery both horrific and beautiful. Apart from 'Hellraiser', however, his movie adaptations have been less than successful. 'Lord of Illusions' was adequately watchable fare but 'Nightbreed', though suitably packed with a menagerie of weird and wonderful creatures was a disappointing failure. With 'Candyman' however, evrything clicked into place beautifully. Anchored by a career-defining role by Tony Todd as the eponymous Candyman himself the film is awash with mystery, pain, beauty and anguish. Phillip Glass provides a quite beautifully emotive score than fully highlights the innocence and emotions at the heart of the story. Director Bernard Rose brings a sense of style and sophistication to the film, a film that is so much more than just a generic 'slasher' film but one which dwells on matters of racism, predjudice and hate. The DVD includes an interesting documentary about the creation of this horror classic as well as a fascinating commentary. The two subsequent sequels, unsuprisingly, were poor imitations of this stunning original but 'Candyman' is a classic film for horror fanatics who want a little more passion behind their gore. The pain, I assure you, shall be most exquisite...