“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”: A Feel-Good Sequel of the Cult Classic

Directed by: Tim Burton
Rating: 7/10

“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is the follow-up to Tim Burton’s 1988 horror-comedy “Beetlejuice.” It brings back the peculiar, spooky charm that made the original a cult favorite. This new film takes us back to the strange town of Winter River, mixing nostalgia with fresh storylines to engage longtime and newcomer fans. After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s (Winona Ryder) life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his brand of mayhem.

Looking back at the original “Beetlejuice,” you would say that the film ends rightfully, and a sequel is unnecessary. The first film has already set its standard as a self-contained masterpiece that perfectly balances horror, camp, and comedy. It is populated by unique characters that leave a lasting impression. However, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” manages to carve out its own space by delivering a good story that pays homage to the original while introducing fresh elements. Though imperfect, the sequel captures the goofy, spooky essence that fans loved, making it an enjoyable experience.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the sequel is the reunion of the original cast members. Michael Keaton returns as Beetlejuice after 36 years, and his performance is as vibrant and chaotic as ever. Keaton’s portrayal of the mischievous poltergeist is a whirlwind of energy, capturing the same spirit that made his character iconic. Winona Ryder also reprises her role as Lydia Deetz, now a mature adult grappling with her past and the challenges of raising a teenager. Ryder’s performance evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding audiences of the goth queen they admired in the original film. Catherine O’Hara also returns, bringing her unique comedic flair to the role and adding a layer of authenticity and warmth to the film. It’s Catherine O’Hara’s character’s redemption arc, and I’m here for it.

However, the film does face some narrative missteps. Compared to the original, the sequel attempts to juggle multiple side plots and introduces several new characters not adequately explored. This results in a somewhat convoluted narrative that can sometimes feel hectic and tedious. The film tries to weave together various storylines, but not all receive the attention they deserve, leading to disjointedness. For example, the subplot involving Astrid’s rebellious nature and her strained relationship with Lydia could have been more deeply explored to add emotional depth to the complicated mother-daughter story.

Warner Bros. Pictures

A surprising issue with the film is the limited screen time given to Beetlejuice himself. Given that the movie is titled “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” one would expect the mischievous poltergeist to be at the center of the action. Similar to the original film, which focused heavily on the dynamic between Lydia and Beetlejuice, the sequel spreads its attention more broadly across multiple characters and subplots. This dilution of focus might disappoint some fans hoping for more of Beetlejuice’s antics and interactions with the Deetz family. Monica Bellucci is a notable new addition to the cast, and her character’s introduction is one of the film’s intriguing elements. Bellucci brings a sense of mystery and allure to her role, and her presence adds a new layer to the story. Unfortunately, as the film progresses, her character becomes underutilized and less interesting, only for her character to become useless in the end. This is a missed opportunity, as Bellucci’s performance could have added more depth and complexity to the narrative. If there were one aspect of the film that I wished they fixed, it would undoubtedly be to give Bellucci’s character more significance and development.

Despite these narrative flaws, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a pleasant surprise as it manages to avoid the pitfalls of many unnecessary sequels by providing an entertaining and engaging experience. The film excels in its visual and production elements, with impeccable hair and makeup, costume design, and set pieces that evoke the quirky, gothic aesthetic of the original. The attention to detail in these aspects helps to create a cohesive and immersive world. The production design, in particular, stands out, with its imaginative and whimsical sets that bring the Winter River town and the Afterlife to life in detail.

At its core, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a feel-good movie. It may not be perfect and has flaws, but it delivers a fun and nostalgic experience. The humor, while sometimes uneven, hits the right notes more often than not, and the spooky elements are balanced with a light-hearted touch. The film’s ability to provide good laughs and a sense of nostalgia makes it a worthwhile addition to the “Beetlejuice” legacy.

In conclusion, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a commendable sequel that captures the essence of what made the original film a cult classic. It brings back beloved characters, introduces new ones, and navigates the tricky terrain of living up to its predecessor. While it may not reach the same heights as the first film, it offers a delightful and fun experience that fans of the original will appreciate. The film’s imperfections are overshadowed by its charm and the joy of seeing Keaton, Ryder, and O’Hara back in action. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or a newcomer to the world of Beetlejuice, this sequel provides a satisfying and entertaining journey into the bizarre and whimsical world of the Deetz family and their mischievous poltergeist companion.