There’s a new two-part documentary coming to HBO. Pee-Wee as Himself. It’s a look at the life and career of actor and comedian Paul Ruebens. The premier date is May 25 on HBO and MAX and I cannot wait to see this one. Why? This documentary should be full of so many plot twists, scandals, laughs and heartbreak that it’s probably worth talking about a Hollywood bio-pic about Ruebens.
If you think you know much about Pee-Wee or Paul Ruebens you’re probably wrong. Or you’re at least in for a surprise. No spoilers here, but the dude’s life had plenty of drama, sex, betrayal and intrigue that goes beyond the Pee-Wee Herman character. From just the stories I’ve heard from my time in the comedy scene of LA, I can tell you one thing: You have to make a documentary in the very least!
The trailer looks fantastic. However, this looks like it was made with the cooperation of Paul Rueben, himself. One has to wonder just how hard he wanted to look at his own life. Right? Would you want to help out on a ‘warts and all’ look at your own life? I doubt Paul did either. So, there’s a chance that “Pee-Wee as Himself” is a two-part love letter to Ruebens. Which wouldn’t be a bad thing. That’s what has me stoked to watch.
Notably absent from the trailer is Phil Hartman. Think he’s on screen for half a second as Captain Carl. Let’s just say that Phils omission would be a crime. Some would say it would be the second time that Ruebens ‘forgot’ about Phil. Let’s see how they handle that one.
