Netflix to Exclusively Release Pee-Wee Herman Film
There's been a lot of chatter surrounding the upcoming Pee-wee Herman film. Back in October, Pee-wee Herman himself Paul Reubens re-iterated that an upcoming sequel was still in the works with Judd Apatow producing the film. While the idea of a Pee-wee Herman film sounds good on paper, there was no guarantee that it would be a success in today's box office and comedic climate. Sure, the nostalgia factor would have played a large role, and having somebody of Apatow's magnitude certainly helps, but modern audiences might not take to the film enough to justify the rigors of producing a film for a traditional film studio.
Enter Netflix. The service has become a go-to for independent filmmakers who want more creative freedom and control over their work. Considering the success of shows like Arrested Development and Orange is the New Black and Netflix's acquisitions of the upcoming Marvel TV series, as well as word that they will release the Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon sequel online with a same-day IMAX release, Netflix is the perfect venue for the Pee-wee Herman sequel to be released on.
[via The Verge]
Paul Reubens Re-Confirms Judd Apatow-produced Pee-Wee Herman Film
It's been 25 years since the last Pee-wee Herman film, Big Top Pee-wee, yet rumors have been circulating for years that a more adult follow-up would begin production. As can be seen, nothing has come from all of the various announcements... until earlier this week. Appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon Wednesday night, Reubens re-confirmed the project, which will be produced by comedy mastermind Judd Apatow. During the interview, of which you can see a clip below, Reubens also states a director has been chosen, but the team was a week away from spilling all of the details.
[youtube id="lQT8tZ3AFgk"]
This is a good sign for not only Pee-wee Herman fans, but Reubens himself. Following some controversy at the turn of the century, the actor has been busy both reprising the Pee-wee Herman character in various sketches, but also small roles in TV and films. By introducing the Pee-wee Herman character to a new generation of comedy fans, Reubens and his crew can find some success in the character's optimism that runs counter to the majority of other popular properties right now.
[via TIME]