Review: 'Pee-wee as Himself' is a provocative reveal of Paul Reubens
Briefly

In the two-part documentary "Pee-wee as Himself," Paul Reubens portrays his journey with unprecedented honesty, navigating the complexities of his life beyond the Pee-wee persona. Despite his desire for a documentary that isn't merely a legacy film, it inadvertently becomes one, as it examines underlying themes of identity, conformity, and the price of fame. Through over 40 hours of interviews, Reubens shares insights into his creative process as well as personal struggles, all while concealing his terminal cancer diagnosis from the film's director until the end.
"I don't want this to be like a legacy movie," Paul Reubens insists while revealing his story in the documentary about Pee-wee Herman, showing his desire for control.
The documentary beautifully captures Reubens' complexity, blending humor with serious introspection, revealing themes of identity and the costs of public life, even as he faced cancer.
Reubens, through 40 hours of playful yet serious interviews, shows his dedication and awareness of the sacrifices it takes to embody Pee-wee while grappling with identity.
The film not only celebrates Pee-wee Herman but also delves deeply into Paul Reubens' life as an artist, revealing his motivations, struggles, and the fascinating duality of his persona.
Read at Datebook | San Francisco Arts & Entertainment Guide
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