10 Unexpectedly Intense Performances In Horror Movies

5. Tony Todd - Candyman

The Babadook
TriStar Pictures

When it comes to slashers, the villain is often portrayed as an embodiment of evil or a sociopath motivated by injustice. However, the antagonist of Candyman, Daniel Robitaille (Tony Todd), is a different kettle of fish.

Daniel was a black man who was lynched by a racist mob after he impregnated a white woman. Still, Robitaille's spirit refused to die, manifesting into an eerie being anytime somebody utters the word "Candyman" five times while looking into a mirror. 

The Daniel Robitaille character could be depicted as a sympathetic villain since he suffered an unjustified and unbearable death. However, Daniel doesn't care about justice or vengeance. Instead, he's driven to shed blood solely to perpetuate his legacy. 

As a result, the hook-wielding ghost could come across as a one-dimensional baddie. Instead, it's impossible not to be enraptured by Tony Todd's alluring performance. Thanks to the late actor's seductive voice, natural charisma, and soul-stirring stare, the insidious spectre is enchanting, even when he's performing a massacre and ordering people to "Be my victim".

Though Robitaille could've been depicted as a generic boogeyman, Tony Todd turned him into one of the most iconic horror villains ever.

Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows