Pee-wee’s Most Favoritest Films

Overview

This April, PAM CUT @ THE WHITSELL is honored to host screenings of Pee-wee’s Most Favoritest Films! This wide-ranging series—featuring movies from John Waters, Robert Altman, Jacques Tati, and more–offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative mind of beloved entertainer Paul Rubens. Before his passing, Rubens gave documentary filmmaker Matt Wolf (Pee-wee as Himself) a list of his favorite films—ones he loved and ones that influenced his most famous creation. These are 6 of those films. 

Co-programmed by Matt Wolf and Joseph A. Berger. First presented by BAM Cinema, September 4-11, 2025.

Special thanks to Allison Berry, Max Cavanaugh, Shane Fleming, and Jesse Trussell.

Screenings

We do not generally provide advisories about subject matter or potentially triggering content in films, and films exhibited don’t necessarily reflect the views of PAM CUT or the Portland Art Museum. In addition to the synopses, trailers, and other links on our website, further information about content and age-appropriateness for specific films can be found on sites like Common Sense Media, IMDb, and DoesTheDogDie.com.