Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is the Ghost With the…Almost

Release date: 9/6/24

Rated: R

Starring: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Arthur Conti, Jenna Ortega, and Willem Dafoe

Beetlejuice is a cult classic that debuted in 1988 and is known for its memorable one-liners, slapstick comedy, and unforgettable dance numbers set to Harry Belafonte’s “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jump in the Line (Shake Senora).” This film introduced audiences to Michael Keaton’s chaotic and hilarious portrayal of the troublesome ghost, Beetlejuice, which became so iconic that it spawned an animated television show and cemented the film’s status as a cult favorite.

Tim Burton attempts to recapture that same magic with the highly anticipated sequel, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. Like many fans of the original, I was excited to see this film BUT kept my expectations in check, knowing that some of the original’s humor and themes might not have aged well… a phenomenon not uncommon amongst long-awaited sequels of cult classics (*cough cough* Coming 2 America). Unfortunately, while the film has its moments, it often feels like it goes from “The Ghost with the Most” to “The Ghost with the…Almost.”

One positive is that the filmmakers wisely chose not to make Beetlejuice the central character, as he wasn’t in the original either. However, this decision also leads to his character, along with several others, getting lost in a shuffle of various storylines.

The story follows Lydia, now 35 years older, as she navigates life as a medium with a teenage daughter, Astrid Deetz (played by Jenna Ortega), who resents her, a self-absorbed boyfriend, and her eccentric artist mother, who’s as quirky as ever. Lydia’s world is turned upside down by the death of her father, Charles Deetz. Things take a darker turn when Lydia begins seeing haunting images of Beetlejuice, eventually needing to summon him to help rescue her daughter.

The performances are solid across the board, which is expected from such a talented cast. Michael Keaton brings back his zany, slapstick style as Beetlejuice, though some jokes land better than others. Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega are convincing as mother and daughter, sharing the most on-screen chemistry, which isn’t surprising given their strong performances in Stranger Things and Wednesday, respectively.

Catherine O’Hara returns as Delia Deetz, delivering what I thought were the funniest moments in the film, with her wild reactions and witty commentary. Willem Dafoe and Monica Bellucci have limited screen time, and while their characters are intriguing, they don’t have a significant payoff, particularly Bellucci’s character, whose storyline is overshadowed by other more prominent stories.

Lydia’s boyfriend, Rory (played by Justin Theroux), is amusing with his over-the-top antics and manipulative ways, but his character doesn’t add much to the overall plot. The creative decision to keep Jeffrey Jones’ character, Charles Deetz, in the film through claymation was interesting, but once his story is explained, his presence feels more like an excuse to explore the underworld than anything else.

Visually, the film maintains the practical effects, costume design, and neon lighting that fans of the original will appreciate. These elements create a sense of nostalgia and work well within the film, making me want to revisit the first movie just for these fun aspects. Burton is always known and applauded for his vision, which is why he is celebrated. Unfortunately, in this case, this is overshadowed by an underwhelming screenplay.

Tim Burton’s signature camera angles and shots, particularly his close-ups and wide shots that resemble a painting, remain a highlight. However, the film’s writing leaves much to be desired. The story feels rushed, with a lack of satisfying resolution in the third act. The dream sequence, in particular, falls flat, despite the build-up between Astrid and Lydia as they explore the underworld.

The dance sequence, while attempting to recapture the excitement of the original, is unimpressive due to its length. It definitely could have been shortened. A scene featuring an underground Soul Train with 70s music and predominantly Black characters felt uncomfortably like cultural appropriation, making me lose some interest in the film, and just when I thought this scene was over and done, it reappeared later at the end. All I could do was stare at the screen with my mouth open. And I wasn’t alone! Other Black viewers in my row had the same reaction. We all laughed but out of pure shock that this was even in the film. It was for sure giving “awkward.”

In conclusion, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice is an attempt to revive a beloved 80s dark comedy, but fails to deliver a compelling story, with many characters’ arcs left underdeveloped. I loved the easter eggs, the extras in the underworld, and, yes, the infamous sandworms. At 105 minutes, it feels like crucial parts were left on the cutting room floor. While I appreciate the actors’ and Tim Burton’s work, I would give this film a 6.5 out of 10. I’m my opinion, it’s worth catching as a matinee, but not something to rush to theaters for.