Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Film Review

While it’s usually wise to avoid saying Beetlejuice’s name three times, today we’re in luck because we’re taking a look at the long-awaited sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.

Revisiting a film over 40 years after the original is always a risky venture. Can it capture the same magic that made Beetlejuice such a hit all those years ago? That’s exactly what we’re here to explore.

To set the scene, it’s been many years since Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) helped the Maitlands in their ghostly adventures. She’s now a mother and the host of a hit TV show, Ghost House with Lydia Deetz, where she investigates paranormal phenomena. Yet, out of the corner of her eye, she keeps seeing a familiar figure—a man with green hair and a striped suit. One day, while filming her show with producer Rory (Justin Theroux), Lydia receives an urgent call from her stepmother Delia (Catherine O’Hara) with the shocking news that her father has died. The family must return to Winter River for the funeral, including Lydia’s estranged daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega), who doesn’t believe in her mother’s supposed ability to communicate with the dead. As if mourning weren’t enough, a mysterious woman named Delores (Monica Bellucci) begins wreaking havoc in the afterlife, killing souls and forcing Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) into hiding. This funeral may be the perfect opportunity for him to reconnect with his almostwife from all those years ago.

From the outset, it’s clear the cast is having a fantastic time, which really elevates the film. Michael Keaton, as Beetlejuice, devours every scene with his usual chaotic energy, making him an absolute joy to watch. Catherine O’Hara’s return as Delia is a pleasant surprise.

Her character is more developed this time around, yet she remains recognisable as the quirky, self-absorbed woman from the original. Willem Dafoe’s role, though unexpected, adds even more flair, with him stealing every scene he’s in, guns blazing.

However, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has its share of narrative quirks, some of which work better than others. The film cleverly handles the absence of certain characters, explaining their exclusions in amusing ways, such as using stop-motion animation. On the flip side, the explanation for the Maitlands’ absence feels underwhelming, even when the film itself acknowledges it.

Visually, the sequel retains much of the original’s gothic charm, with the addition of modern digital elements. Danny Elfman’s score is a nostalgic treat, and the film wisely leans into the strange prosthetic work and surreal sequences fans love. Yet, the subplot involving Delores feels unnecessary and muddles the narrative, especially as the film becomes increasingly disjointed toward the end.

Ultimately, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a fun return to a beloved world, even if it doesn’t quite live up to the original. It’s worth watching, as long as you manage your expectations—while it’s a nostalgic ride, the story isn’t quite as strong as the first.