Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

The juice is loose once again, and audiences are drawn back into the whimsical afterlife for another round of chaotic fun with Beetlejuice. Although I had never fully understood the widespread adoration for Tim Burton’s distinctive style— perhaps I was just too young or too critical when I first discovered him — I recently revisited the original Beetlejuice and discovered that it happens to be my favorite of his works. And to my surprise, the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, may even eclipse the original in terms of sheer fun.

The standout feature of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is its stellar ensemble cast. Michael Keaton, seamlessly slipping back into his iconic role with effortless charm, delivers a performance brimming with hilarity. His impeccable comedic timing and versatility are on full display, especially in scenes showcasing his black-and-white past life or highlighting shifts in his dialect. These moments are particularly memorable, underscoring why Keaton’s portrayal remains so beloved. Catherine O’Hara also returns and is as funny as ever. Additionally, Willem Dafoe makes a notable impression as eccentric deceased actor-turned-detective Wolf Jackson. His goofball persona perfectly complements the film’s quirky tone, and his performance brings some of the most memorable laughs, balancing humor with a grounded presence that enhances the film’s overall appeal. Plus, you know he always “keeps it real”. 

What makes Beetlejuice Beetlejuice a successful legacy sequel is its fresh take on the original concept. While there are nods to the original film — such as the plotline revolving around Jenna Ortega’s character and its similarities to Winona Ryder’s storyline in the first — the sequel introduces new storylines and antics that invigorate the narrative. From Beetlejuice, Bob, and crew’s chaotic escapades to the Deetz family’s zany dynamics, the film successfully breathes new life into the beloved universe. These inventive plot developments and character arcs ensure that the sequel feels both familiar and refreshingly original.

That being said, I still harbor some reservations that I typically have with Burton’s films. While the distinctive style and humor are integral to the film’s charm, the dialogue occasionally falls flat, and Burton’s direction occasionally hampers character development. For instance, Ortega’s romantic subplot feels somewhat out of place amidst the film’s high-energy chaos, which often left me wishing we could get back to the zany escapades of everyone else involved. 

Nevertheless, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice stands out as one of the funniest films of 2024. It is a delightful romp through a visually imaginative world, complete with impressive technical elements such as mini dioramas, witty one-liners, and perfect callbacks to the original. The practical effects are top-notch, adding to the film’s charm and overall enjoyment. It’s a must-see for fans of the original film, anyone looking for a great time at the movies, and aficionados of over-the-top performances.

P.S. The touching in memoriam tugged at the heartstrings of everyone in the theater. If you know, you know.

7/10