The absurdist comedy has a look reminiscent of German expressionist movies of the 1920s, filtered through a pop-art sensibility of cartoons, horror serials, and Gothic fairy tales. The result is a surreal, mystical world, yet one very close to our own. Much like Burton's subsequent heroes, Edward Scissorhands and Ed Wood, Pee-Wee (Paul Reubens) travels through this dreamy world as an unabashedly quirky, innocent outsider. The character of Pee-Wee Herman was the creation of comedians Reubens and Phil Hartman, and it had been a staple of Reubens' nightclub act for years before the film. Reubens selected Burton to direct the Pee-Wee feature on the basis of his Disney-produced short Frankenweenie, which the studio had deemed unacceptable for kids. Pee-Wee's Big Adventure propelled Burton to many opportunities, including the first Batman, even as it predictably typecast Reubens.Read full review
I've enjoyed this movie for years. Pee Wee Herman, the man-child creation of Paul Reubens is delightfully funny. From the ingenious working of his kitchen, to the hilarious "big shoe" dance in the bikers bar, viewers will laugh out loud. Who can resist the line...."I know you are, but what am I?"
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
My kids grew up with this movie and it was one of our favorites. I had somewhat forgotten about it until seeing on Netflix Instant View a while back. Liked it so much that I watched it with my girlfriend and she loved it, too! We're both in our late 40's, so what does that say about us?! Guess we're still just fun loving, bicycle riding, big kids with big imaginations, just like the people who produced this thing. Who the heck thinks this stuff up?! Being avid bicyclists makes it that much more relevant and fun for us. Great movie and pretty clean entertainment for the whole family! (Heck, my 28 year old, super serious, law school student son still likes it!) Glad I bought a copy! I suggest the 2008 version, though, if you want true widescreen DVD and are at all concerned about that. The earlier letterbox version doesn't fit into the screen like true widescreen. Otherwise, I highly recommend it, no matter which version you choose!Read full review
A definite cult movie, at this stage. The comedy is often moronic, and juvenile. Pee Wee himself can be obnoxious, but isn't that why we adults love him. The cameos by famous stars are great. A good movie, especially the first time you see it. A lot of the slapstick is spontaneous, and very funny.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Our seven-year-old granddaughter loves PeeWee Herman, now that she has discovered him, and we do, too. He is very clever and funny. Some of the scenes such as his morning breakfast must be classics.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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