Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: A Nostalgic Trip with a Few Quirks

36 years is a long time to wait for a sequel, but “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” largely delivers the spooky, kooky fun that fans of the original have been craving. The film successfully captures the spirit of its predecessor with its signature Tim Burton aesthetic, quirky humor, and macabre charm. Seeing Michael Keaton back as the mischievous bio-exorcist is an absolute treat, and his performance is as delightfully over-the-top as ever.

The film cleverly catches us up with the Deetz family, with Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara reprising their roles as Lydia and Delia. While it’s fun to see where life has taken them, Lydia’s storyline felt a bit underdeveloped. Her marriage to Rory (Justin Theroux) seemed out of character, and I would have liked to see more exploration of her career as a “ghost whisperer.”

Jenna Ortega shines as Lydia’s daughter, Astrid, who brings a welcome Gen Z perspective to the afterlife. Her romance with a ghost, while predictable, provides a humorous twist, especially given her initial skepticism towards her mother’s supernatural abilities.

While the film successfully builds on the original’s legacy, it does stumble in a few areas. The subplot involving Beetlejuice’s ex-wife felt somewhat tacked on and lacked the necessary depth to be truly engaging. Additionally, some of the humor felt a bit forced, relying too heavily on slapstick and visual gags.

Despite these minor flaws, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a fun and nostalgic ride that will appeal to fans of the original. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters and the unique world that Tim Burton created. While not every film needs a sequel, this one proves that some stories can be effectively resurrected after decades, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to their roots.

Rated: PG-13 (USA)

Runtime: 105 minutes

Release Date September 6, 2024

My rating:

7.5 Mainasty Masterpieces