The two-part documentary Pee-wee as Himself, directed by Matt Wolf, is an intimate, sprawling, and emotionally resonant exploration of Paul Reubens’ life, his iconic alter ego Pee-wee Herman, and the complexities of crafting a public identity that often blurred the line between the performer and the man. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, this four-hour odyssey is an ambitious attempt to demystify one of pop culture’s most enigmatic figures, offering viewers a raw, unflinching look at Reubens’ personal and professional life.
From the outset, Pee-wee as Himself establishes the dichotomy that defined Reubens’ existence: the larger-than-life, whimsical Pee-wee Herman and the deeply private, introspective Paul Reubens. Through over 40 hours of interviews conducted before his death, Reubens wrestles with the control he sought to maintain over his public persona while navigating the challenges of living authentically. His words are candid, guarded, and, at times, heartbreakingly vulnerable—offering glimpses of a man who delighted millions while harboring profound struggles.
The first part of the documentary chronicles Reubens’ formative years, tracing his love for television, circus arts, and avant-garde performance to his time at CalArts, where he cultivated a unique comedic sensibility. The documentary paints a vivid picture of Reubens’ influences, from Disney classics like The Mickey Mouse Club and Pollyanna to Andy Warhol’s subversive films, providing a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic inspirations that informed Pee-wee Herman’s creation.
The origins of Pee-wee, rooted in Reubens’ time with The Groundlings, are brought to life with extensive archival footage and anecdotes from collaborators like Lynne Stewart and Phil Hartman. Pee-wee’s initial rise, marked by sold-out tours and appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman, is exhilarating, capturing the magic of a character who felt like a child’s imagination come to life. The behind-the-scenes tales of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure and its evolution from a Pollyanna homage to a Tim Burton-directed cult classic are among the film’s highlights, illustrating Reubens’ creative ingenuity.
The second part of the documentary delves into the more tumultuous chapters of Reubens’ life, including the scandals that tarnished his reputation. Wolf doesn’t shy away from these difficult topics, allowing Reubens and those close to him to recount the impact of the allegations. Particularly poignant are Reubens’ reflections on the “indecent exposure” arrest and the subsequent child pornography accusations, which the documentary frames as a homophobic witch hunt that irreparably damaged his career and personal life. Reubens’ pain is palpable, and his assertion that “where there’s smoke, there isn’t always fire” lingers as a powerful statement on the dangers of public judgment.
Despite the controversies, Pee-wee as Himself also celebrates Reubens’ resilience and artistry. Interviews with collaborators like Natasha Lyonne, Laurence Fishburne, and Tim Burton underscore the impact of his work, while the documentary’s exploration of his immense memorabilia collection reveals a man deeply connected to nostalgia and creativity. However, the film’s final act takes a somber turn as it becomes clear that Reubens was battling cancer during production. His decision to record an audio message for Wolf in lieu of further interviews is a poignant reminder of his desire to control his narrative, even as his health declined.
Matt Wolf’s documentary succeeds in balancing reverence and critique, capturing Reubens’ brilliance, flaws, and contradictions. The structure—mostly linear but punctuated by moments of reflection—keeps the narrative engaging, while the extensive use of archival footage and personal photographs adds depth and authenticity. The inclusion of perspectives from friends, collaborators, and family members enriches the story, providing a multifaceted view of a man who defied easy categorization.
Pee-wee as Himself is both a tribute and an unvarnished exploration of Paul Reubens’ life and legacy. It’s a deeply personal film that refuses to shy away from uncomfortable truths while celebrating the joy and wonder that Reubens brought to countless fans. For those who grew up with Pee-wee Herman, the documentary offers a bittersweet journey through nostalgia and loss. For newcomers, it’s a compelling introduction to a cultural icon and the complex artist behind the bowtie. Ultimately, Pee-wee as Himself is a fitting farewell to Paul Reubens—a man who, even in his final days, sought to control his story and ensure that Pee-wee’s legacy would continue to bring joy.
I give Pee-wee as Himself 5 out of 5 stars.
Pee-wee as Himself will stream on Max later in 2025.