Greta Gerwig graced the AFI Fest 2023, looking stunning in a red devoré-velvet Gucci set. The Hollywood event showcased Tim Burton’s iconic film, Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, which holds a special place in Gerwig’s heart. As she took the stage at the TCL Chinese Theatre, Gerwig expressed her appreciation for the train scene in the movie, describing it as a committed and incredibly short joke that has stayed with her throughout the years.
In addition to her presence at the festival, Gerwig had the honor of guest directing and curating a lineup of films, including Bob Fosse’s All That Jazz, Vincente Minnelli’s An American in Paris, Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s A Matter of Life and Death, and Wim Wenders’ Wings of Desire. She also introduced Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, paying tribute to the late Paul Reubens, who starred in the film.
Gerwig’s connection to Pee-wee’s Big Adventure goes beyond her appreciation for its comedic brilliance. She revealed that the film gave her joy, made her feel free, and allowed her to experience a different kind of truth. As a writer and director, she emphasized the profound impact that silliness can have in the world of cinema.
This year’s AFI Fest holds extra significance for Gerwig, as it marks a homecoming for her previous films, Lady Bird and Little Women, which were also screened at the festival. Gerwig’s appearance follows the massive success of her recent directorial effort, Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. The film has become a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $1.4 billion.
During her introduction, Gerwig acknowledged the influence of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure on her own work, mentioning how it inspired her to create something that goes beyond the ordinary. She praised both Paul Reubens and Tim Burton as geniuses and referred to the film as a stone cold classic.
AFI President and CEO, Bob Gazzale, welcomed Gerwig to the stage and recognized the significance of the event taking place at the TCL Chinese Theatre, where Pee-wee’s Big Adventure had its world premiere in 1985. Gazzale also highlighted the presence of several members of the film’s creative team, generating excitement among the audience.
After Gerwig’s heartfelt remarks, she transitioned to another theater within the complex to introduce A Matter of Life and Death. Directed by Powell and Pressburger, the 1946 film explores the journey of a British wartime aviator who must argue for his life in a celestial court. Gerwig’s comments in this context focused on the freedom and power that cinema possesses, describing Powell and Pressburger’s films as shots of adrenaline that remind her of the unlimited possibilities of the medium. She expressed her belief that anything is possible when the lights go down in a movie theater.
