When Pee-Wee came out it was the new "cult" movie for me and my fellow Generation X'ers. "The Stars at night are big and bright--" clap, clap, clap, clap, clap. "Deep in the heart of Texas!" And of course, "Tell 'em Large Marge sen'cha."

I was 15 when his "Big Adventure" hit theaters. I was dragged kicking and screaming, fully expecting to loathe it. About 20 minutes in, I leaned over to my brother and whispered, "this is probably the best film I've seen all year!" People were and still are quick to dismiss Ruebens and his infantile alter-ego. But there are some brilliant "bits of business," to quote Scott's piece from yesterday, some very astute commentary going on there that says something about all of us. And that, friends, is the crux of great humor. I've heard that he's on the verge or has completed a new film? I think, if done smart, the time is ripe for a Pee Wee renaissance!

I also went to see "Pee Wee's Big Adventure" with no idea what this character was about. Not only did that lead to repeat trips to the theater that summer, but I also became an instant Tim Burton enthusiast (as a young child) and saw everything he released. Pee Wee Herman is the perfect cross between Jim Carey's physical humor and WIll Ferrell's man-children. Paul Reubens is such a smart comic that he created an alter ego that he could literally perform for the rest of his life - a loner with a timeless uniform that refuses to grow up. The dude will never be too old for anything because he has no kids, no job, no responsibilities and no combat requirements - like aging action heroes: John Rambo and Indiana Jones. Even when Reubens becomes a senior citizen, all he will need is that grey suit, a red bow-tie, a jet black Pee Wee wig - and an immature adventure. Hopefully I will get to write one some day.

It came out during spring break of my Grade 10 year, so I had lots of time on my hands. Saw it five times in the theatre that week. The combination of a great character and Tim Burton's unique style was unbeatable.

[...] Great Characters: Pee-wee Herman (“Pee-wee Herman’s Big Adventure”) (gointothestory.blcklst.com) [...]