trb@masscomp.UUCP (Andy Tannenbaum) (08/19/85)
A fine movie. Pee Wee's first major role is a real gem. He brings his peculiar view of life to the screen, and we find that it's not all slapstick. It's a blend of slapstick humor, surrealism (!), innocence, wisdom, integrity, and warmth. Pee Wee doesn't bow to the idols of Hollywood, and he doesn't spit on them either. There is no gratuitous sex or violence, not even gratuitous reference to sex or violence. The butts of the jokes are never riduculed mercilessly or tastelessly. I laughed alot. The movie really focuses on Pee Wee; none of the other characters had central roles, but they do lend various interesting flavors. The plot is simple but it holds the movie together well enough. There is a surprising number of interactions between Pee Wee and various unexpected colorful characters, and these interactions portray him as a more interesting person than you would imagine at first glance. Who won't like this movie? People who are set in their dislike for childish humor, like that of the Three Stooges. People who want the popular hooks in their humor - sex and drugs and rock and roll and violence. People who rant and rave about whether or not they were able to suspend their disbelief about whether it's phycically possible for a bicycle to jump over a cyclone fence. I don't think that Pee Wee compromised his integrity enough to make this movie a box office smash. I had heard that it did well in its first week at the box office, but I went to a Saturday night showing and the theater was not close to full. I hope I don't come off too seriously, I think the movie was really good and funny. Andy Tannenbaum Masscomp Westford, MA (617) 692-6200 x2274
jmd@rduxb.UUCP (Joseph M. Dakes) (08/21/85)
> Who won't like this movie? People who are set in their dislike for > childish humor, like that of the Three Stooges. People who want the > popular hooks in their humor - sex and drugs and rock and roll and > violence. My girlfriend and I just went to see "Pee Wee" last night. We both felt it was one of the funniest movies we had ever seen. I don't ever remember laughing so much or hearing other people in the audience laugh so much as I did last night. Although, as we were leaving I did hear one couple say it stunk. If anyone can just look at Pee Wee Herman and laugh then this movie is definitely for you. His mannerisms alone are worth a good laugh and add to that some of the gags (especially the one) and you've got a very funny movie (nothing like his "I'm the luckiest boy in the world" fiasco on HBO a couple years ago). > I don't think that Pee Wee compromised his integrity enough to make > this movie a box office smash. I had heard that it did well in its > first week at the box office, but I went to a Saturday night showing > and the theater was not close to full. When I went last night the place was packed. As a matter of fact the people behind the ticket window were telling everyone how funny it is. I have to agree it was well worth the $4 per person to get in. Joseph M. Dakes AT&T Bell Laboratories Reading, PA rduxb!jmd