He was in the show for eight months the first time around, leaving to do two movies, "Critters 2: The Main Course" and "Big Top Pee-wee."

But in "Big Top Pee-wee," Ms. James said, "he and the circus world meet each other half way, with results that are less outrageous than kiddie-cute.

Big Top Pee-wee (1988) (special makeup)

Otherwise, "Big Top Pee-wee" (co-produced and co-written under his other name, Paul Reubens) is an uninspired circus film for children.

Big Top Pee-wee (1988)

Burton had no interest in directing Big Top Pee-wee, and the financial success of the film prompted Warner Bros. to hire him to direct Batman.

The sheriff in Big Top Pee-wee (1988) received a report from Porterville about a windstorm approaching Pee-wee Herman's local town.

Big Top Pee-wee, 1988's sequel, was less successful than its predecessor.

She went on to play small roles in films like The Karate Kid, Big Top Pee-wee and Twins.

The supporting cast is headed by Valeria Golino, the Italian actress who made her American film debut in "Big Top Pee-wee."