PEE-WEE'S BIG HOLIDAY (2016)

Though a so-so fan of the TV series, I admit to being a huge fan of Pee-wee's Big Adventure, and of the Pee-wee Herman character himself.  Twenty-six years after the series' end, Netflix brings Pee-wee back, in style, in Pee-wee's Big Holiday - and even as you notice the character has aged a bit, the film is still a wonderfully nostalgic, funny (sometimes hilarious) throwback to all that made Pee-wee Herman awesome in the first place.  The plot is overly simple: Magic Mike's Joe Manganiello, co-starring as himself, meets and becomes friends with Pee-wee before he talking the mild-mannered diner cook - who's never left his hometown - to break out and see the world by trekking to New York City for Joe's upcoming birthday party.  Never wanting to disappoint a friend, Pee-wee - despite his fears - sets out on an awesome journey that will introduce him to many colorful characters along the way (the snake farm and a trio of female criminals being only a couple of highlights), and may even see him .. tie the knot?  Nearly three decades after the height of his popularity, Pee-wee - God Bless him - is as fresh and funny as ever. (rated TV-PG)  A-