Continuing the “Beetlejuice” franchise, Warner Bros’ new movie “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice“ refreshed the original story, while also adding in new elements, including characters, plots, and backstories. While putting pieces together from the original plotline and tying up loose ends, the film also enhances backstories, incorporating flashbacks to explain any holes.
“Beetlejuice” was released back in 1988, quickly gaining popularity for its unique plotline and special effects. Audiences favored the comically dark characters, with the film garnering mass acclaim and profit when it was first introduced. Although 36 years have passed since the opening of “Beetlejuice” in theaters, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” registered over $100 million alone on its opening weekend, blowing away the $74 million “Beetlejuice” garnered itself.
In the previous film, the story follows Beetlejuice, a self-employed bio-exorcist, who was hired by a ghost couple to scare away the Deetz family from their home. However, he had a secret motive to marry the daughter, Lydia Deetz, in an attempt to come back to life. Failing, he ended up being eaten by a sandworm, seemingly ending the beloved classic. The sequel picks up 30 years after the finish of the first movie, where Lydia opens the film with the intro to her newest TV show, where she highlights paranormal activity occurring in people’s homes. In the days to follow, Lydia begins seeing Beetlejuice appear and returns home for her father’s funeral, prompting a family reunion. “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” brought back familiar faces, including Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz and Michael Keeton as Beetlejuice, among others.
The movie had many shocking and unexpected plot twists, from a ghoulish villain to Beetlejuice’s villainous ex-wife, keeping the audience engaged until the end.
Original details like Beetlejuice’s revolting makeup and raspy voice, and Lydia’s iconic gothic fashion, allow the movie to celebrate the original story without taking away the appeal to younger audiences.
The movie even added multiple references to pop culture through new, younger characters. One of them included Rory, Lydia’s soon-to-be husband, who makes jokes highlighting what society today calls a self-aware, emotional man. He’s a therapist, stand-in father, and loving partner all-in-one. Another major selling point was Jenna Ortega. Her social media presence helps her appeal to young adult audiences, as well as her appearances in most of the advertisements promoting the movie. All the actors’ performances were skillful and made their characters more tolerable compared to in the previous movie.
A key part of the original was the use of stop motion graphics, but in the sequel, Warner Bros tried to be more creative and add scenes with claymation components. However, they felt disconnected from the style of the movie and unnecessary to the development of the plot.
Adding to the eye-catching visible aspects of this film, the music was thoughtfully chosen and well incorporated throughout. Including the famous song, “Day-o,” and other eerie musical pieces, the film captured the essence of the famous Beetlejuice story, while adding in clever traces of the present day.
Overall, the movie did not appear forced or lacking in storytelling, but earned its place as a must-see this fall. Whether you’re into the creepy, dark style of Tim Burton or just love Halloween, this movie will not disappoint.
