February 15, 2025

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) is directed by Tim Burton and is the sequel to Beetlejuice (1988). It stars Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara reprising their roles alongside new cast members Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Jenna Ortega, and Willem Dafoe. Set more than three decades after the first film, it follows Lydia Deetz, now a mother, struggling to keep her family together in the wake of a loss as Betelgeuse returns to haunt her.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

SPOILER ALERT: Even though I won’t be doing a plot review, this review will talk openly about the plot of the film. If you haven’t seen it and you want to be spoiler free go check it out and come on back afterword.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice does a more than adequate job blending nostalgia with innovation, a rare feat that brings a beloved classic roaring back to life while carving out a distinct identity for itself. This long-anticipated (I guess) sequel delivers a vibrant, chaotic, and deeply entertaining experience that celebrates its roots while embracing new horizons. The result is a film that is both a love letter to the 1988 original and a bold leap into uncharted territory, offering something for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

NOTE: I say ‘I guess’ because I harken back to what Kevin Smith said during one of his ‘Evening With Kevin Smith’ performances when he said, “Didn’t we say everything we needed to say with the last Beetlejuice?”

From the moment the film begins, it’s clear that Burton’s signature touch remains as strong as ever. The opening scene plunges us back into that same world with gothic whimsy, surreal humor, and an aesthetic that feels as though it has leapt straight from the pages of a haunted storybook. Every frame has been meticulously crafted to re-create a universe that is both darkly macabre and over the top colorful.

At the center of this wonderfully bizarre world is Michael Keaton, who reprises his role as Beetlejuice with unmatched gusto. Keaton’s performance here is tremendous, bursting with manic energy and the irreverent charm that were there in 1988. He once again perfectly captures the essence of the character, reminding audiences why Beetlejuice remains an iconic antihero. His delivery is sharp, his timing impeccable, and his presence magnetic. Keaton clearly revels in the opportunity to step back into Beetlejuice’s striped suit, and his enthusiasm is infectious. Whether he’s spouting off absurd one-liners, causing supernatural chaos, or breaking the fourth wall in unexpected ways, Keaton commands every scene he’s in.

But Beetlejuice Beetlejuice isn’t just a one-man show. The ensemble cast is great in its own right. Winona Ryder’s return as Lydia Deetz is nothing short of triumphant. Older and wiser, Lydia remains the heart of the story, her goth sensibilities and sardonic wit as sharp as ever. Ryder’s performance is nuanced and heartfelt, grounding the film’s wilder moments with genuine emotion. Joining her is a stellar supporting cast that includes both new and returning faces. The newcomers bring fresh energy and perspectives, seamlessly integrating into the established world while adding layers to the narrative.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance humor with heart. While the original Beetlejuice was a comedy, its sequel adds an unexpected emotional depth. Themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of embracing one’s individuality are woven throughout the story, lending it a resonance that extends beyond its comedic core. Lydia’s journey in particular is both relatable and inspiring, and her evolving relationship with Beetlejuice adds an intriguing complexity to their dynamic. These moments of sincerity never feel out of place; instead, they enhance the film, making it a richer and more rewarding experience.

Visually, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is just what you’d expect from Burton – breathtaking. The expanded exploration of the Netherworld is a highlight, offering audiences a deeper dive into the bizarre and surreal afterlife that Burton first introduced in 1988. The set designs are imaginative and immersive, ranging from eerie graveyards to sprawling, otherworldly bureaucracies. The use of practical effects, combined with modern CGI, creates a tactile and believable world that feels alive and endlessly fascinating. The costumes and makeup are equally impressive, with Beetlejuice’s iconic striped suit and wild hair updated just enough to feel fresh while staying true to the original.

Danny Elfman’s score is another triumph, perfectly capturing the film’s mischievous tone. The music is a delightful mix of haunting melodies and upbeat, playful rhythms, seamlessly blending new compositions with familiar motifs from the original. Elfman’s work adds an extra layer of magic to the film, amplifying its emotional beats and enhancing its comedic moments. The soundtrack as a whole is a standout element, making the film’s world feel even more vivid and alive.

At its core, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a film that revels in its weirdness, encouraging audiences to do the same. This message is conveyed not just through the story, but through every aspect of the production, from its bold visual style to its fearless embrace of the absurd.

While no film is without its flaws, the few minor quibbles in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice are easily overshadowed by its many strengths. Some plot points may feel slightly underdeveloped, and a few of the newer characters could have used more screen time. However, these issues are far from deal-breakers and do little to detract from the overall experience.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) – Final Thoughts

In the end, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) is a return to form for Tim Burton and a worthy successor to the original classic. It’s a film that manages to honor its predecessor while forging its own path, creating something that feels both timeless and refreshingly new. With its performances, visuals, and blend of humor and heart, it’s an experience that no fan of the original should miss.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (4KUHD + Digital) [4K UHD]

Chewie

I've been a fan of horror and slasher movies for as long as I can remember. I consider the original Halloween to be the best horror movie of all time and my guilty pleasure horror flick would be The Exorcist III. You can find me on X at @406Northlane or TikTok @406Northlane where I'm sure I'll offend you at least once a day.

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