Decades of Sweetness: Williams Candy, A Coney Island Icon, Shines in Hollywood Spotlight
In the heart of Coney Island stands a candy store that has been a sweet staple for over eight decades. Williams Candy, a beloved local gem, recently found itself thrust into the limelight after being featured in the critically acclaimed film “Anora,” a movie that has garnered six Academy Award nominations. Directed by Sean Baker, “Anora” tells the story of a young sex worker who marries the son of a Russian Oligarch, with much of the film’s scenes shot on the vibrant streets of Brooklyn.
The iconic candy store, nestled on Surf Avenue just a stone’s throw away from Nathan’s famous hot dogs, played a pivotal role in the movie, hosting a particularly chaotic and violent scene that left both viewers and the store’s owner, Peter Agrapides, in awe. Agrapides, who has been at the helm of Williams Candy for years, expressed his excitement at seeing his store featured in a film destined for the Oscars. “It’s great! It’s exciting to see your store in a good movie in the Oscars. Millions of people watching, it’s great,” he shared.
A Sweet Hollywood Connection: Williams Candy in “Anora”
Williams Candy, a Coney Island institution, was not just a backdrop in “Anora” but a character in its own right. The film’s gripping narrative follows Mikey Madison’s character, Anora, as she embarks on a journey to find her lost husband, leading to a dramatic scene at the candy store. Agrapides recounted his shock at witnessing the store’s destruction on-screen, with faux glass cases shattered in a moment that echoed throughout the neighborhood. “After I saw the movie, I said ‘oh my god!’ And we were finding that glass all over the place for months after that,” he revealed.
Despite the cinematic chaos, Williams Candy has remained a timeless treasure, preserving its classic old-school charm that captivates generations of customers. The store’s enduring appeal caught the attention of the movie’s producers, who recognized the Agrapides family’s dedication to their craft. Lynn Marando, a loyal customer, commended the store’s authenticity, stating, “They’re a great family, they deserve all the business they get.”
Behind the Scenes of “Anora”: A Taste of Hollywood in Brooklyn
Adding a touch of local flavor to the film is Billy O’Brien, a Coney Island native who plays the store’s fictional owner in “Anora.” O’Brien, a familiar face in the community since childhood, brings a touch of authenticity to his role, even as he witnesses the chaos unfold on set. Recalling the moment when the store was transformed into a Hollywood battleground, O’Brien humorously shared, “I come back out again and they busted the whole place up with the glass. I come out and I say ‘what the hell?!'”
While the experience of having a candy store featured in a major motion picture was undoubtedly exciting, Agrapides admitted that he may have underestimated the film’s potential success. Reflecting on his decision to lend the store for filming, he joked, “I think I shoulda got more… if I knew it was gonna be an Oscar hit.” Nevertheless, he remains grateful for the newfound attention and business that the store has received, thanks to its silver screen debut.
As Williams Candy basks in the glow of Hollywood recognition, the story of this iconic Brooklyn establishment serves as a testament to the enduring charm of local businesses and the magic of cinema. With its rich history and unwavering commitment to quality, Williams Candy continues to delight visitors, both on-screen and off, with its timeless sweetness and Brooklyn spirit.