Across four decades, Burton has been responsible for some of the most iconic characters in cinema.

FromBeetlejuicetoBatmantoEdward Scissorhands, Burton is doubtlessly one of the most influential directors in Hollywood.

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventurehit theaters in 1985, and the whimsical feature-length film marks Burton’s directorial debut.

Pee-wee’s Big Adventure

On the surface, themovie set lacks Burton’s signature stampwith its costume designs and production value.

However,Pee-Wee’s Big Adventurehas a longevity that has become increasingly associated with many of Burton’s classics.

Four decades later, the movie is still accumulating positive reviews.

Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman Smiling in Pee-wee’s Big Adventure

Warner Bros. Pictures

Reuben created the character in the late 1970s for an improvisation group based in Los Angeles.

Tim Burton offers a spooky aesthetic, but he doesn’t generally make horror movies.

That makes the scariest five minutes of his movies more impressive.

Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman Eating Breakfast in Pee-wee’s Big Adventure

Warner Bros. Pictures

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventureundoubtedly led to Burton gaining the momentum he did so fast.

Burton’s collaboration with the actor then resulted in some of the most lucrative opportunities in his whole career.

Regardless of its financial success,Burton’sPlanet of the Apeswas not received well by critics.

Johnny Depp as Ichabod Crane in Sleepy Hollow

seems like the return to a nostalgia-driven franchise was precisely the formula Burton needed to regain box-office leadership.

It is more likely that the issue is because these films are less adventurous than Burton is capable of.

Burton is generally known for his gothic aesthetic, but his comedic format is equally noteworthy.

Cast Placeholder Image

WhilePee-Wee’s Big AdventureandBeetlejuice Beetlejuiceare very different movies, the fundamental comedy is actually quite similar.

This is in the sense that they both rely on outlandish humor, albeit their methods of delivery differ.

These elements resonate with audiences and add extra layers to his work.

Movies

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure

tim burton