The documentary on HBO Max
For anyone who knew of Pee-Wee Herman and watched his on screen movies and and TV shows, this is a documentary you must watch. It’s available now on HBO Max.
My first time watching Paul Reubens character was in the 1985 movie “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” but it started sooner than that for Paul.
Parts 1 and 2
In the 1970’s, Paul joined the comedy group The Groundlings where he carved out his comedy skills. One of those skills was the Pee-Wee Herman character. There was a stage show that he had multiple people participate in. And this is where the documentary goes into great detail. He honed his character and skills and turned into a comedy legend without even knowing it.
Paul went through ups and downs until he was able to get with Tim Burton who agreed to direct the movie “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” which ended up being a fan loved movie. The details and behind the scenes this documentary covers is great. I was so entertained by watching both parts. And yes, this covers the adult theater arrest and all of the downfall Paul went through.
The other details most fans are not aware of is the original Pee-Wee Herman show from 1980-1981, which also includes his audition for Saturday Night Live. There is also coverage of his many visits to the Late Night With David Letterman show.
Paul and the movie director Matt Wolf narrate both parts. Lots of details are revealed about Paul’s late in life battle with cancer. And yes there are many parts covering the TV show Pee-Wee’s Playhouse, which I loved watching every Saturday morning as it aired on CBS fro 1986 to 1990. It also delves into his friendship and ending of the friendship with Phil Hartman, who played Captain Carl on the TV show.
So I just touched on some of the subjects. Go watch this wonderful and very well done documentary. You won’t regret it.