REVIEW: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
The first Beetlejuice created a precipice for the horror-comedy. One of the classics in Hollywood’s huge library, the ‘ghost with the most’ is back after 35 years. Sequels and franchises obviously have to be treated carefully, but Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has the same charm and entertainment that the first film had; bringing back beloved characters and introducing new ones, it’s one of those films that gives you a warm feeling inside.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set thirty-some years after the Deetz family moved to the quiet town of Winter River, after the events of the first film. Now, Lydia Deetz (Ryder) is a widow, whose teen daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) is estranged. Mother-daughter tensions aside, when Astrid winds up trapped in the land of the dead, Lydia calls on an old frenemy for help.
Through the film, Tim Burton is able to take us back and reminisce about the first film with familiar catchphrases and themes. From Lydia and Beetlejuice, who serves as a nostalgic entity for the film, from Astrid, there’s a fresh perspective. There’s a clash of generations which reflects today’s society through Lydia representing the Boomer/Millennial generation and Astrid representing the Gen Z generation. Audiences (especially females) will be able to relate to these two women across these generations which Burton captures perfectly through their performances.
Speaking of performances, Winona Ryder portrays Lydia as the same character we remember from the first film and who can forget Beetlejuice himself? Michael Keaton’s iconic character is the tip of the iceberg with his motivations in the film and also provides comic relief with his impeccable timing. New characters like Astrid (played by Jenna Ortega) is a great addition to the story and she also brings a sense of Wednesday too with her broodish and gothic- like mannerisms.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a great sequel to Beetlejuice with its comedy, memorable characters and great story. A perfect watch for the upcoming Halloween season.