Episode 49 : Pee-wee’s Big Adventure

Working a uniquely ingenious comedian into a director’s feature film debut could be seen as a risk. But PEE-WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE (1985) turned into an impressively ambitious film for Paul Reubens and Tim Burton, as they created one of the most iconic films of the decade. Standing the test of time and continuing to capture hearts, this strangely charming film is renowned as one of the most beloved comedies for all ages.

▶️Synopsis: When his prized, one-of-a-kind bike is stolen, the quirky, naively positive Pee-wee Herman stops at nothing to track it down, leading him on the quest of his life and meeting one eccentric person after another.

⏩⏩Discussions include: The origination, development of and hype around Pee-wee Herman; the rise, fall and resurgence of Paul Reubens’ career; creation and evolution of BIG ADVENTURE’s script, including Tim Burton adding an imaginative spin on the film while also cutting corners; the unusually memorable supporting cast; reception of the film; spirit, humor and what makes BIG ADVENTURE appeal to a wide audience; Big Top Pee-wee, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday and the Pee-wee’s Playhouse TV series are also discussed. **Starring Paul Reubens, Elizabeth Daily, Mark Holton, Diane Salinger. Directed by Tim Burton.**

▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK**

—Lindsay’s Pick, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER (1992): A seemingly superficial high school girl comes to realize her true life calling is to save the world from vampires. **Starring Kristy Swanson, Luke Perry, Donald Sutherland, Paul Reubens, Rutger Hauer, David Arquette. Directed by Fran Rubel Kuzui.**

—Justin’s Pick, HOUSEGUEST (1995): Stuck with a substantial unpaid mob debt, a cunning con man hustles his way into a naive, affluent family. **Starring Sinbad, Phil Hartman, Kim Greist. Directed by Randall Miller.**

▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Find out how Paul Reubens fits into the 1978 Saturday Night Live cast’s summer hiatus.

▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Origin of the legendary tequila dance, a frequent misconception during BIG ADVENTURE’S biker scene and Pee-wee’s love of animals, including our podcast darling, Darla the Dog.

▶️NEXT UP: THE ABYSS (1989)!