DEEP DIVE: Paul Reubens, aka Pee-wee Herman (Spillover Date)

NOTE: This is a spillover date for the DEEP DIVE into Paul Reubens, aka Pee-wee Herman. If you're on the Going list for June 26, please do not sign up for this one.

This is a “watch at home, discuss in-person” event.

HBO Max just released a two-part documentary on the late Paul Reubens (aka Pee-wee Herman) called Pee-wee as Himself. It features extensive interviews with Reubens and archival footage from his career. It’s getting great reviews, and as someone who was a rabid Pee-wee fan in the '80s (before the scandals), I’m intrigued to revisit his legacy.

So, let’s do a DEEP DIVE into Mr. Reubens! If you’re interested in exploring his life and work, here’s your assignment:

1. Watch the two-part documentary Pee-wee as Himself on HBO Max.
2. Watch at least one additional film, special, or TV episode starring Reubens. Your choice! I’ve included a shortlist below.
3. Join us to share your thoughts and reflections.

We’ll meet on Monday, June 30, at Edgewater Public Market. If the weather’s nice, we’ll grab a picnic table outside. If not, we’ll meet at Barquentine Brewing Company, right next door.

Here’s the shortlist and where to find them:

• Pee-wee's Big Adventure (1985, HBO Max)
• Pee-wee's Playhouse (TV series) (1986-1990, YouTube – free)
• Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992, Prime) *
• Pee-wee's Big Holiday (2016, Netflix)
• Big Top Pee-wee (1988, Prime)
• Pee-wee's Playhouse Christmas Special (1988, Tubi)
• Mosaic (TV show) (2018, HBO Max) *
• The Pee-wee Herman Show (TV special) (1981, HBO Max)
• The Pee-wee Herman Show on Broadway (2011, HBO Max)

* Note: For starred titles, Reubens appears in a supporting role, not as Pee-wee.