Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988) is a cult classic that perfectly captures the essence of 80s horror-comedy. Its quirky characters, bizarre world, and iconic title character have made it a beloved film for generations.
So, with the anticipation for the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, at an understandable high, my plus one and I were excited to make our way into the fantastic depths of IMAX Melbourne to check it out for ourselves.
The film picks up decades (36 years to be precise) after the events of the first film.
The Deetz family returns home to Winter River after Charles Deetz’s unexpected death. Lydia’s rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and a portal to the Afterlife is opened once again, releasing the the mischievous ghoul Betelgeuse.
It’s been a while since Tim Burton has truly captured the whimsical, gothic magic that made him a beloved filmmaker.
But with Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, it feels like he’s finally back in his element. The film is filled with Burton’s signature visual style, from the grotesque yet morbidly charming characters to the vibrant, otherworldly landscapes. It’s a feast for the eyes that will delight fans of his earlier work.
The reunion between Lydia (Winona Ryder) and Beetlejuice is a highlight of the film. Michael Keaton reprises his iconic role with the same (if not more) manic energy that made him so memorable in the original. He is absolutely perfect in this role.
His interactions with Lydia and Barbara are full of humor and heart and the excellent cast fully embrace the chaos of this world.
Her daughter, played by Jenna Ortega who you may recognise from Burton’s Netflix show ‘Wednesday‘, is full of teenage angst yet charming through and through, and Catherine O’Hara steals every scene she is in. We also loved the wild cast of returning and new characters, from Danny DeVito playing an underworld janitor to Willem Dafoe as Wolf Jackson, a ghost detective who in life was a B-movie action star.
The film’s visual style is a mixed bag in the best possible way. Burton’s signature gothic aesthetic is still present, with some brilliant practical effects, stop motion style animation and miniature sets.
These help make the film feel like a truly natural fit with the timeless original and we can’t wait to watch it again to spot all the easter eggs and details hidden for fans.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a worthy sequel that’s sure to please fans of the original and newcomers alike.
So, grab your stripes, and get ready for a wild ride with Beetlejuice!
– The Plus Ones
