In New Orleans, schoolteacher Annie Tarrant seeks to unveil the truth behind the murder of her father, who was researching the legend of the deadly, hook-handed urban myth, Candyman. During her search, she discovers that Candyman is intrinsically linked to her family's past. Annie learns about various occurrences where people have summoned Candyman by saying his name five times in front of a mirror—a ritual which supposedly calls forth his vengeful spirit. Skeptical yet desperate for answers, Annie inadvertently summons Candyman herself and enters his dangerous realm.

As she delves deeper into the mythos and historical origins of Candyman, Annie uncovers the tragic tale of Daniel Robitaille, a 19th-century artist who became Candyman after a violent and racist community turned against him. The story takes a darker turn as Candyman pursues Annie, claiming that she has awakened him. With each step closer to the truth, Annie finds herself entangled in a supernatural struggle that threatens her sanity and life. The boundary between reality and legend blurs, leading her to confront Candyman and try to break the cycle of horror that has plagued her family and others for generations.