Anticipated Return: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Sequel Set to Mesmerize Audiences with Iconic Characters and Fresh Storytelling
The long-awaited return of the mischievous demon Beetlejuice is finally happening as Michael Keaton reprises his iconic role in the sequel to the cult hit, Beetlejuice. Entertainment Weekly has provided an exclusive first look at the upcoming film, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Alongside Keaton, Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara also return to reprise their roles as Lydia and Delia Deetz, respectively. New cast members include Jenna Ortega as Lydia’s daughter Astrid and Justin Theroux as Rory, with further details on his character being kept under wraps. The sequel, directed by Tim Burton, is set to hit theaters on Sept. 6.
Dereck Hard Michael Keaton as Batman
Image credit: Honza Nedoma, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Plot and Characters
The original Beetlejuice, released in 1988, followed the story of Barbara and Adam Maitland enlisting the aid of the mischievous demon Beetlejuice to expel the current living residents of their home, the Deetz family. The sequel picks up decades later with a death in the family, setting a new series of events in motion. While the details are kept under wraps, the return of Beetlejuice is guaranteed to bring chaos and mischief.
Michael Keaton’s Return
Director Tim Burton describes the experience of getting Keaton back into the classic costume and makeup as a “weird out-of-body experience.” Despite Keaton’s initial lack of interest in reprising the role, Burton was amazed to see him effortlessly embody the character again.
Evolution of the Sequel
Burton and Keaton had sporadically discussed a sequel over the years, but it was crucial for both of them to find the right emotional hook for the story. Various concepts were considered, including settings in Hawaii and the Haunted Mansion, but the project needed time to mature. The emotional hook they were looking for eventually revolved around Lydia’s character and the dynamic between three generations of Deetz women, providing a strong foundation for the sequel.
Film Details
Further details about the film and its plot are being kept under wraps, but the cast includes Monica Bellucci, Arthur Conti, and Willem Dafoe. Burton confirms the use of stop-motion animation to bring classic Beetlejuice effects to the screen, aiming to infuse the movie with a handmade quality that reenergizes his love for filmmaking.
Title and Release Date
The title “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” was chosen as it didn’t feel like a traditional sequel title. Burton considered alternative titles, including “Beetlejuice 2024 A.D.,” but ultimately settled on the simple yet impactful “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” The film is set to hit theaters on Sept. 6, marking the long-awaited return of the beloved character and his chaotic antics.
In summary, the Beetlejuice sequel promises to captivate audiences with its nostalgic yet fresh take on the iconic story, bringing back beloved characters and introducing new elements to the world of Beetlejuice.
Source:
Nick Romano (March 20, 2024). Beetlejuice Beetlejuice… Beetlejuice returns in first look at Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder. Entertainment Weekly. https://ew.com/beetlejuice-2-first-look-michael-keaton-winona-ryder-8611171. Accessed March 21, 2024
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