Mikula, Jane

"All Because of Candyman"

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Major: Criminology and Psychology

Freshman; College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

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Abstract

Candyman (1992) is a shocking and thrilling cinematic piece that does not only depict fictional horror, but the horrors of the real world. These real-life horrors took place close to home, in the near-north side of Chicago. During the housing crisis in Chicago numerous housing projects were established all over the city. What these housing projects mainly had in common was that the occupants were of a low socioeconomic class, and usually people of color. The living conditions were awful. Throughout my essay, I illustrate the connections between the scenes depicted in the movie and the real-life events. Overall, the purpose of my essay is to shine light on the issues of race and socioeconomic status that people of color faced during the housing crisis. In addition, I dissect the influence of Candyman, and how the film uses a form of art to spread awareness of the horrors that people faced during the housing crisis.

Class: Honors 111

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Professor: Douglas Long