Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure Is 40 Years Old This Year, And It’s Become Something Of A Cult Classic
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Tim Burton’s filmmaking career, making it the perfect time to look back at Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, a film that showcases the director’s early work. Across four decades, Burton has been responsible for some of the most iconic characters in cinema, from Beetlejuice to Batman to Edward Scissorhands. Despite facing criticism in the 2000s, Burton’s recent success with Beetlejuice 2 is a testament to his greatest strengths.
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, released in 1985, is a whimsical feature-length film that marks Burton’s directorial debut. On the surface, the movie may lack the distinctive style and production value that defines many of Burton’s later works, but it has a longevity that is typical of many of his timeless classics. Paul Reubens, who plays the lead, has a daunting task in balancing childlike humor to sell his performance, but not going too far as to become annoying.
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure is a rare example of a film that achieved both commercial success and cult status upon its initial release, earning $40 million globally and spawning two sequels and a spin-off TV show. Four decades later, the movie continues to accumulate positive reviews, with a devoted fan base. While it may be an acquired taste, Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure is worth viewing for Burton’s skill alone, as well as Danny Elfman’s score.
The film’s success can be attributed to the comedic genius of its protagonist, Pee-Wee, a character created by Paul Reubens. Reubens’ delicate understanding of Pee-Wee’s personality helped to make the character a beloved figure, even in its early stages. The film’s unconventional origins, distinct personality, mixed reviews at the time of release, and rise in acclaim over the years have cemented its cult status.
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure was also the starting point for many of Burton’s collaborations, including his partnership with Michael Keaton, who was approached to star in Beetlejuice shortly after the film’s release. Keaton had not seen the entire film at the time, but he sensed Burton’s potential, saying, “I just knew this guy was something.” After the success of Beetlejuice, Burton went on to direct Batman with Keaton in 1989.
The film’s offbeat comedy formula works so well because, beneath its surface-level wit, it explores themes of loneliness and acceptance. Burton’s ability to blend comedy with fantasy or horror in fresh and exciting ways ensures his films remain entertaining. His offbeat comedic style has become a hallmark of his work, making it a testament to his enduring success. With the 40th anniversary of his filmmaking career, Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure remains a beloved classic that showcases Burton’s early experimental work and sets the stage for the iconic characters and films that would follow.