The new “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” sequel is a far cry from the original 1988 film that captured the hearts of audiences with its unique blend of horror and comedy. While the sequel has moments of fun and features Michael Keaton reprising his role as the titular demon, it ultimately falls short of recapturing the magic of the original. Director Tim Burton, who helmed both films, shows flashes of his signature style but fails to deliver the same level of unhinged creativity that made the first “Beetlejuice” a classic.
The sequel focuses on the estrangement between mother Lydia, played by Winona Ryder, and daughter Astrid, portrayed by Jenna Ortega. Lydia, now a celebrity TV psychic haunted by her past encounters with Beetlejuice, seeks his help when Astrid is transported to the Afterlife. The film also introduces new characters, including Lydia’s dim-witted manager played by Justin Theroux and an over-the-top Afterlife cop portrayed by Willem Dafoe. Despite the star-studded cast, the film suffers from an overcomplicated plot that lacks the simplicity and charm of the original.
Burton successfully creates interesting parallels between the two films, such as the use of familiar songs like “Day-O” in the original and “MacArthur Park” in the sequel. The Afterlife is depicted as a surreal and visually striking world, filled with unique creatures and colorful landscapes. Keaton’s performance as Beetlejuice remains a highlight, capturing the bizarre and manic energy that made the character a fan favorite. However, the sequel struggles to find a balance between honoring the original while introducing new elements.
Ryder and Ortega deliver strong performances, anchoring the film with their emotional journey as mother and daughter. Delia, played by Catherine O’Hara, adds a touch of eccentricity to the ensemble cast, reminding Lydia of her rebellious past. While the sequel attempts to delve deeper into the characters’ backstories and relationships, it ultimately falls short of creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with audiences. The film’s attempts to blend the fresh with the familiar come across as disjointed and lack the emotional depth of the original.
Overall, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” struggles to live up to the legacy of its predecessor, failing to capture the same spirit of bizarre fun and dark humor that made the original a cult classic. While Burton’s visual style shines through in certain scenes, the film ultimately feels overstuffed and lacking in focus. Despite the efforts of a talented cast and creative team, the sequel falls short of recapturing the magic of the original, leaving fans longing for the ghost of Beetlejuice’s former self.
