Pee-wee as Himself: A Heartfelt Unmasking of Paul Reubens
Some documentaries boast an impressive array of archival footage, taking viewers back to the golden days of their subjects. However, in Matt Wolf’s captivating film, "Pee-wee as Himself," the most compelling moments arise when Paul Reubens is unapologetically himself. The film promises a unique glimpse into the life of the beloved character while revealing the nuanced man behind the iconic persona.
Unraveling Reubens: A Tapestry of Interviews
Before his passing in 2023, Reubens shared 40 hours of candid interviews with Wolf. This extensive dialogue captures the complexities of his character, showcasing a hesitant and at times strained cooperation with the filmmaker. Notably, Reubens paused his participation for a year, particularly while grappling with the fallout from his infamous 2001 arrest. His reluctance lingers throughout the film, a constant reminder of his struggle with the ownership of his story.
“I would rather be directing this myself,” Reubens quips multiple times, hinting at his discomfort with being portrayed through another’s lens. This tension adds a layer of intrigue to the documentary, revealing Reubens’ desire to maintain control over his narrative while resisting the typical tropes of the genre.
The Man Behind the Magic
The documentary begins with an earnest confession from Reubens. “I was born in 1938 in a little house on the edge of the Mississippi River,” he recalls. This line sets the stage for a film that is ultimately more about the man than the persona.
While Pee-wee Herman is undeniably iconic, Paul Reubens’s humor shines through, providing a refreshing contrast. Wolf’s clever title hints at a deeper exploration of a performer’s identity—how one often prioritizes their public persona over genuine self-revelation.
The Influences That Shaped a Legend
Reubens, a child of television, was profoundly influenced by shows such as "Howdy Doody," "The Mickey Mouse Club," and "I Love Lucy." He shares, “I wanted to jump into my TV and live in that world.” The first half of Wolf’s film is delightful, illustrating how myriad inspirations—from circus culture in Sarasota, Florida, to Andy Warhol—converge in the creation of Pee-wee.
“It was a whole bunch of things that had never really connected, connecting,” Reubens muses, revealing the magic behind his unconventional character.
The Rise and Fall of a Cultural Icon
Wolf meticulously chronicles the evolution of Reubens’ alter ego, tracing his path from The Groundlings to iconic appearances on shows like "The Gong Show" and David Letterman’s late-night program. Reubens recalls his sensation of "bringing the character out into the wild," illustrating how he remained in character throughout the day, often to the detriment of his personal life.
Amidst his rising fame, Reubens faced challenges, choosing to remain closeted as a gay man and distancing himself from former collaborators like Phil Hartman. This growing isolation reflects both personal and professional sacrifices, a bittersweet narrative thread in his story.
Confronting Controversy
The documentary cannot shy away from examining the controversies surrounding Reubens, particularly his 1991 arrest for indecent exposure. This incident shattered the carefully crafted image of Pee-wee, and the fallout highlighted a significant societal double standard, especially given perceptions rooted in homophobia.
When the topic arises, Reubens shows a reluctance to appear as a victim. He resists the clichéd notion of the “tears of a clown,” prompting reflections on the complexities of public perception versus private reality.
A Final Reflection
Wolf, previously known for his visual storytelling, faces challenges in building a deeper rapport with Reubens. Despite this, "Pee-wee as Himself" emerges as a testament to the man—combining playful charm with profound self-reflection. Ultimately, Reubens aims to "clear a few things up," crafting a narrative that challenges misunderstandings about his life.
In a poignant final call to Wolf just before his passing, Reubens remarked, “I wanted to let people know who I really was and see how painful it was to be labeled as something I wasn’t.” This statement encapsulates the essence of the film—an invitation to understand not just the character, but the complex individual behind it.
"Pee-wee as Himself" is a Warner Bros. release unrated by the Motion Picture Association, with a runtime of 205 minutes. The documentary strikes a balance between humor and pathos, offering viewers much to revel in—a solid three stars out of four for this heartfelt exploration.
For those interested in the evolution of iconic characters and the humans behind them, this film is a must-watch, streaming now on HBO Max.
