Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5 Stars)
Released 09-06-2024
Watched 09-08-2024
Reviewed 09-09-2024
Watched in the theater Using Cinemark Movie Club
"I need you to help me save my daughter. But how do I know that you're going to keep your word?"
Tim Burton’s long-awaited sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), brings back the chaotic ghost with the most, and it’s a wild, darkly funny ride filled with all the ghastly charm fans of the original loved. Thirty-six years after the first Beetlejuice (1988), Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara reprise their iconic roles alongside a new, talented cast including Jenna Ortega, Justin Theroux, and Monica Bellucci. The result? A ghoulishly fun film that successfully blends horror, comedy, and fantasy in classic Burton fashion.
The film opens with Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) hosting a supernatural talk show, but things quickly spiral when her past comes back to haunt her—literally. Keaton’s Betelgeuse (pronounced Beetlejuice) makes his grand return when Lydia's estranged daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), unwittingly summons him from the afterlife. This time, Lydia must navigate the tricky waters of family and supernatural mischief, culminating in a hilarious and high-stakes adventure that fans of the franchise will relish.
Michael Keaton slips back into Betelgeuse’s decaying shoes effortlessly, reminding us why his performance in the original became so beloved. Keaton’s wicked humor and irreverence remain intact, with Burton wisely resisting the urge to soften the character for modern sensibilities. This allows Betelgeuse to stay as unpredictable and politically incorrect as ever, a choice that feels authentic to the essence of the character.
Jenna Ortega shines as Astrid, bringing youthful energy and adding a fresh layer to the chaotic world. Her chemistry with Ryder’s Lydia anchors the emotional core of the story, as mother and daughter reconnect amid the madness. Monica Bellucci, as Betelgeuse's ex-wife Delores, adds a touch of malevolent elegance to the mix, while Justin Theroux’s Rory provides comedic moments, albeit as a character who’s more punchline than plot driver.
Visually, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is everything fans of Burton would expect—creepy, quirky, and filled with practical effects that give the film a nostalgic yet refreshed feel. The afterlife sequences brim with creativity, and the practical effects harken back to Burton’s earlier work, blending seamlessly with modern visuals. This return to form is bound to delight longtime fans, while new viewers will appreciate the unique tone.
While Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a riotous return to the absurd world Burton created in 1988, it’s not without its flaws. Some plot points feel overly convenient, and the storyline occasionally meanders, particularly with the introduction of Delores' subplot. Despite this, the film’s relentless energy and well-executed set pieces keep the momentum going, making the ride enjoyable.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice successfully recaptures the magic of its predecessor while adding modern twists that keep it relevant. With Michael Keaton’s devious performance, Jenna Ortega’s standout role, and Tim Burton’s signature aesthetic, the film is a hauntingly good time that fans will appreciate. While it may not reach the iconic status of the original, this sequel is more than a worthy follow-up.
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