The long-awaited sequel to Tim Burton’s iconic 1989 film, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” has brought back the strange and spooky charm of the original.
Lead actor, Michael Keaton, shines again as Betelgeuse and delivers his usual off-the-wall humor and maniacal energy, although this time his age shows us how melancholy his character can get. Leading actress, Winona Ryder, returns to her role as Lydia Deetz. Now a grown woman, she continues to struggle with her demons and close chemistry with Betelgeuse in which both add an emotional layer to the film.
Jenna Ortega, another popular actress, stars as Deetz’s daughter, Astrid Deetz. While Ortega brings a moody and rebellious energy to her role, some reviewers feel her performance lacks the quirky edge the film needs.
The script by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar weaves multiple storylines, but the narrative feels chaotic. There are many standout moments, such as the film’s stop-motion animation and Burton’s signature visual flair, but the story can be hard to follow. This can be especially hard to follow for newcomers unfamiliar with the original.
The film embraces a retro ‘80s aesthetic, staying true to Burton’s classic style with its inventive set design and elaborate costumes. However, while this film is fun and nostalgic, some elements feel out of place or even underdeveloped, which makes the overall experience less cohesive.
For fans of the original, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” offers enough bizarre antics and visual treats to enjoy, but it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the first film. I’d rate this film an 8.5/10.