Beetle’s Still Got the Juice
3.5 out of 5
Tim Burton transports viewers back to the strange and fantastic universe of the ghost with the most in Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. Years following the events of the first, the sequel follows Lydia Deetz (Wynona Ryder) as she continues to struggle with her relationship to the hereafter. Lydia must call Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) once more when fresh sets of enemies threaten to destroy the realm of the living and the dead. The weird, funny, and terrifying experience that follows reminds us why this figure is a symbol in the realm of eerie comedy.
In spite of not being in much of the first movie, Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice was so good —fans of the film have always wanted more. So how did he do? In short, he nails it. Keaton exudes the same energy and quirkiness that made him remarkable in 1988. He epitomizes the mischievous spirit, AND we get what feels like more than just the 17 minutes we were afforded of Beetlejuice the first time around. Indeed, his appearance, voice, and actions make the 36 years seem like they were yesterday for him. Keaton is the unquestionable heart of the movie, whether he is shattering the fourth wall or wreaking havoc in the netherworld, as he says in the trailer, “The Juice is loose…”
Wynona Ryder reprises her role as Lydia Deetz — who is now older and wiser, but still a conflicted character. Her bond with Beetlejuice gives the movie some great moments, and Ryder’s performance captures Lydia’s gothic appeal mixed with her protective duty — this time directed toward her daughter, played by Jenna Ortega. Equally amazing is Catherine O’Hara, who reprises her role as Delia Deetz and offers her unique mix of oddball humor and flair — and like Keaton — it’s as if no time has passed.
The 1988 soundtrack is one feature of the original film deserving of particular appreciation, and in this film, it’s once again a home run when the movie veers toward the legendary Danny Elfman score. Those classic calypso beats and haunting melodies transport the viewers straight back into Burton’s gothic-tinged universe. A difference this time is the inclusion of modern-day music and hits, which occasionally yanks you out of the Beetlejuice universe. I think the attempt in doing so was to add some depth and appeal to Ortega’s character — but I would have preferred the original stuff.
The new movie presents two fresh antagonists (a third if you count Justin Theroux’s character) whose storylines take your eyes off of the main attractions—Beetlejuice and Lydia. They don’t hurt the story at all, and often help push things along—they’re just not as fleshed out as they could have been. Further exploring Monica Belluci’s character would have been fun, as she gave some insight into Beetlejuice and his history (which was cool to see)—so there could have been a lot more fun if the two were allowed to have more screen time together. Given her potential to be a fun villain, perhaps she’ll be back if Burton were to bless us with a third movie.
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice is an unquestionably nostalgic excursion that fans of the original will love. With just enough fresh material to keep it interesting without betraying the spirit of the original, Tim Burton presents a visually spectacular, humorous, and heartfelt film. Alone, Keaton’s comeback is worth the cost of admission; but, taken with Burton’s unique approach, Ryder’s depth, and O’Hara’s humor, it all comes out to be a strong sequel.
Hopefully, we won’t have to wait another 36 years to see Beetlejuice back in action, as it would seem he has lots of juice left!
