Paul Reubens’ Best Pee-Wee Herman Movie Is On Netflix As A Perfect Tribute To His Career

By Sckylar Gibby-Brown | Updated

Pee-Wee's Big Holiday
Pee-wee’s Big Holiday (2016)

Paul Reubens, the legendary actor who created the iconic character of Pee-wee Herman, died yesterday following a cancer diagnosis. While the actor was only 70, he created a legacy that will last forever with the endearing child-like character of Pee-wee Herman and the many adventures created from the movies and TV shows featuring him. One of the best Pee-wee movies, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, is currently streaming on Netflix as the perfect tribute to Reubens’ career. 

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, starring the late Paul Reubens, is streaming on Netflix.

In 2016, Netflix brought to screens the long-awaited return of Pee-wee Herman in the delightful adventure comedy film, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday. Directed by John Lee and written by Paul Reubens and Paul Rust, the movie stars the iconic Paul Reubens as the eccentric Pee-wee Herman and the charismatic Joe Manganiello as himself. The movie follows Pee-wee as he decides to take his first vacation ever after a fateful meeting with a stranger (Manganiello).

pee-wee's big holiday
Joe Manganiello and Paul Reubens in Pee-wee’s Big Holiday (2016)

This Netflix gem takes viewers on a heartwarming journey filled with quirky characters, comical escapades, and an unexpected bond between two seemingly different individuals. Pee-wee’s Big Holiday was the first Pee-wee Herman movie to be released since 1988’s Big Top Pee-wee and the conclusion to the Pee-wee Herman TV show, Pee-wee’s Playhouse, which ended in 1990.

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday begins in the small town of Fairville, where Pee-wee Herman works as a beloved fry cook at Dan’s Diner. However, his life takes a thrilling turn when his band disbands, leaving him feeling adrift.

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday is paved with more strange encounters, from a quirky snake farm to an Amish community with hilariously romantic intentions.

Enter Joe Manganiello, the charming actor who stumbles into Pee-wee’s life and invites him to his birthday party in New York City. Pee-wee, who has never left Fairville, finds himself torn between his familiar life and the alluring prospect of an adventure.

But without adventure, there would be no movie. So, in Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, Pee-wee decides to leave Fairville, and, of course, immediately, things begin to go wrong, starting when he encounters three women fleeing from the scene of a bank robbery. 

Assuming they are damsels in distress, he offers them a ride in his Fiat 600. Little does he know that the women are outlaws, and they bolt the scene of the crime with his car. Pee-wee’s Big Holiday is paved with more strange encounters, from a quirky snake farm to an Amish community with hilariously romantic intentions.

Interestingly, some critics interpreted Pee-wee’s Big Holiday as a subtle queer love story, highlighting the affectionate dynamic between Pee-wee and Joe.

Amidst the zany adventures and eccentric characters, Pee-wee forms an unexpected friendship with Joe Manganiello. Their bond grows as they navigate through mishaps, encounters with robbers, and the discovery of a flying car. Pee-wee’s Big Holiday skillfully balances humor and heartfelt moments, and this camaraderie between Pee-wee and Joe elevates the film beyond just a quirky comedy.

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday (2016)

Beneath the surface, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday offers an allegory of self-discovery and the courage to venture beyond one’s comfort zone. Pee-wee’s decision to leave Fairville symbolizes the journey of stepping out of one’s shell and exploring the unknown. This film inspires viewers to embrace change, face their fears, and embark on new adventures, no matter their age or circumstances.

Interestingly, some critics interpreted Pee-wee’s Big Holiday as a subtle queer love story, highlighting the affectionate dynamic between Pee-wee and Joe. While the film does not explicitly explore their relationship as romantic, it showcases a special bond that transcends traditional definitions of friendship. Despite his eccentricities, Pee-wee’s ability to form deep connections emphasizes the importance of genuine connections in life.

As Pee-wee’s journey culminates with Joe’s birthday party, the film imparts a heartwarming message of cherishing the people who make life meaningful. When Joe tells his new friend, “Pee-wee, we are the party,” it symbolizes the realization that happiness is not about grand celebrations but the joy of being surrounded by the people you care about.

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday (2016)

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday is a delightful adventure that captures the essence of Pee-wee Herman’s endearing charm and childlike wonder. Paul Reubens‘ iconic portrayal of Pee-wee and Joe Manganiello’s charismatic presence adds depth and heart to the film. Beyond its whimsical exterior, the movie explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and embracing life’s unexpected turns. 

For both fans of the original Pee-wee Herman films and newcomers alike, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday is a heartwarming escapade worth embarking upon and the perfect tribute to remember Paul Reubens and the silly but heartwarming comedy he created during his lifetime.