Tim Burton, the renowned filmmaker, took to Instagram to express his shock and sadness over the death of Paul Reubens. Reubens, who starred in and co-wrote Burton’s directorial debut Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, passed away at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer. In his post, Burton shared a heartfelt tribute to Reubens, acknowledging the crucial role he played in launching his career.
A Creative Bond
Burton reminisced about the beginning of his career, crediting Reubens for his unwavering support. Without Reubens’ encouragement and influence, Burton believes his success in the film industry would not have been possible. The profound impact Reubens had on Burton’s artistic journey is evident in their enduring collaboration and the profound appreciation Burton holds for Reubens as an artist.
The Birth of Pee-wee Herman
The character of Pee-wee Herman gained recognition after the release of the 1981 comedy special, The Pee-wee Herman Show, which aired on HBO. The peculiar man, dressed in his iconic gray suit, red bow tie, and white loafers, captured the hearts of audiences. Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, the film in which Reubens played the lead, showcased Pee-wee’s quest to recover his stolen bike, leading him on an unforgettable adventure.
A Lasting Collaboration
Reubens’ partnership with Burton extended beyond their iconic first film together. He lent his voice to the character Lock in The Nightmare Before Christmas, a film Burton both wrote and co-produced. Furthermore, Reubens portrayed the father of Danny DeVito’s Oswald Cobblepot/Penguin character in Batman Returns, further solidifying their creative bond.
A Directorial Match
In a 2016 interview, Reubens praised Burton’s distinct style and his ability to bring a unique vision to his projects. Reubens specifically pointed out the wallpaper in Burton’s film Frankenweenie as a defining moment that showcased Burton’s keen eye for style. According to Reubens, many young directors lack a distinct style, but Burton’s attention to production design and art direction set him apart. This understanding and appreciation of Burton’s talent led Reubens to choose him as the director for Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
Paul Reubens’ contributions to Tim Burton’s career cannot be overstated. Their collaboration not only launched Burton’s directorial journey but also exhibited their shared artistic vision. Reubens’ legacy will forever be remembered through his unforgettable characters and the indelible mark he left on the world of cinema.