Matt Wolf Releases Revealing Pee-Wee Herman Documentary Following Paul Reubens' Death

The documentary "Pee-wee as Himself," directed by Matt Wolf, explores the complex life and career of Paul Reubens, the actor behind the iconic character Pee-wee Herman. It reveals Reubens' efforts to maintain control over his public image, his struggle with fame, and his compartmentalization of his private and public personas. The film covers Reubens' early success, creative process, and the controversies that derailed his career, including his 1991 arrest and a later FBI raid that uncovered a vintage homoerotic art collection but no child pornography. Despite participating in the documentary, Reubens kept his cancer diagnosis secret until his death in 2023, adding a poignant layer to the film's exploration of secrecy and identity. Friends and colleagues reflect on his loyalty demands and complex personality, while the documentary highlights Reubens' dual life as a public entertainer and a private individual. Ultimately, the film presents a nuanced portrait of a performer who managed to keep much of himself hidden even as he entertained millions.