Real science question:
If you put a much brighter light behind the flame, would it cast a shadow or something like it? Would you end up with a less bright spot on the wall?
I think that effect is only because the match is in close proximity to the wall. I haven't taken general physics in years, but I think the intensity is related by the inverse square of the distance. If the candle were much further from the wall, you wouldn't see that extra bit of brightness.
If you put a much brighter light behind the flame, would it cast a shadow or something like it? Would you end up with a less bright spot on the wall?