Tim Burton rewatch! After making a name for himself with his short films, Burton got his shot at a feature as comedian Pee-Wee Herman was also making a name for himself and ready for a feature as well. And yes, RIP to the great and talented Paul Reubens.

Here’s what happens: After Pee-Wee Herman’s super-cool bicycle is stolen, he goes on a cross-country trek to get it back from the Alamo to Hollywood and back. Who knows who he’ll meet along the way.

Origin story: Paul Reubens created the Pee-Wee Herman character when he was the Groundlings comedy troupe. The character took off, making appearances all over TV. My memory is first seeing him doing random MTV promos. Hollywood has a long history of niche comedians getting a feature film, so here’s another.

Outsider theory: Is Pee-Wee an outsider in this world? It doesn’t seem so. The movie’s smartest move to come up with all sorts of kooky characters for him to interact with, often with him being the straight man. If anything, Pee-Wee’s friend and/or possible romantic interest Dottie. Nothing says “outsider theory” like the whole unrequited love thing.

Reality breaks through: Most of the movie is outrageous, but things get emotional when Pee-Wee befriends Simone, who dreams of leaving behind an abusive relationship and starting a new life in France. It’s a real heartfelt moment during all the wackiness.

Best bits: Pee-Wee: “Is there something you’d like to share with the rest of us, Amazing Larry?”

Thoughts on this viewing: Fans always point to the dream sequences and the infamous Large Marge scene as being the most Burton-ish, but the whole thing, really. In interviews, Burton always emphasizes fondness for characters in his movies, and how each movie is a chance to explore new characters. This is almost a perfect comedy. Yes, it’s a weird and oddball comedy, but Pee-Wee represents the oddball in all of us.

Next: I think it looked at me.

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