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Beetlejuice Beetlejuice spoiler-free review: A charming and surprisingly successful sequel

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As a gamer who grew up watching the original “Beetlejuice” and quoting its iconic lines ad nauseam, I was initially skeptical about a sequel that seemed to have sprung from the depths of nowhere after three decades. However, after watching “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”, I must say it’s like finding an old, dusty copy of your favorite game in the attic – slightly worn, but still a joy to play!

Thirty-six years after its initial release, we’ve finally received the long-awaited follow-up to “Beetlejuice”. Despite the unexpected nature of this sequel, given the enduring popularity of the 1988 classic and its timeless appeal, the new “Beetlejuice” manages to be a surprisingly strong continuation that respects the original while not overshadowing it.

The film has garnered some positive reviews so far, with a rating of 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, only slightly below the original’s 82%. It made its debut at the Venice Film Festival and was met with a lengthy, three-minute standing ovation.

In the series, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” our beloved goth heroine, Lydia Deetz, experiences a surge in popularity as she produces a TV program that unveils the world of the supernatural. A distressing phone call from Delia informs Lydia about an emergency and some unsettling news regarding Charles. This unexpected crisis compels Lydia to rebuild her relationship with her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega), who harbors bitterness towards Lydia’s psychic talents.

However, when Astrid encounters ghostly problems and becomes trapped in the afterlife, Lydia finds herself compelled to seek aid from Betelgeuse. Meanwhile, Betelgeuse also faces difficulties in the film, as his former wife (Monica Bellucci) is mysteriously revived. She intends to claim Betelgeuse’s soul, and he requires Lydia’s assistance just as much as she needs his.

In the film “Beetlejuice,” we’re introduced to a vibrant set of characters including Astrid, Dolores, Rory, and Wolf Jackson. These newcomers enrich the narrative and breathe fresh energy into this beloved classic. I must admit, Willem Dafoe’s presence in the movie was an unexpected treat. He plays the role of a relentless pursuer seeking Betelgeuse and Dolores, who is causing mischief by consuming the souls of the deceased and causing chaos in purgatory.

Although Dolores is an intriguing figure with a distinctive talent, she appears somewhat underdeveloped. Her backstory isn’t fully explored, and her screen presence is limited. The secondary storyline involving her seems to take a backseat at times and occasionally gets overlooked. A more cohesive narrative might have been achieved if the filmmakers had focused on a single plot rather than attempting to juggle multiple ones concurrently.

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The sequel, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” offers a delightful dose of quirky charm, evoking just the right amount of nostalgia. However, one drawback is an excess of side stories that don’t significantly contribute to the main narrative. Regardless, each character delivers a standout performance, and the return of the iconic Saturn sandworm is a treat. Director Tim Burton skillfully revitalizes the classic tale, and I eagerly anticipate a future “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” as I’m always thrilled by Keaton in this role. If you’re a fan of the original, I strongly suggest catching this film as soon as possible!

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2024-09-06 22:25

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