Tim Burton’s highly anticipated Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a sequel to his 1988 classic, has delivered an unexpected delight for fans. The film, which reunites Michael Keaton as the trickster demon Betelgeuse and Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz, embraces Burton’s signature macabre humor and retro puppet effects. Critics are praising its handcrafted visual style, which recalls the quirky charm of Burton’s early work.
Winona Ryder returns as a middle-aged Lydia, now a TV psychic with a goth daughter, Astrid, played by Wednesday star Jenna Ortega. Ortega brings her trademark deadpan to the role, and their on-screen chemistry has been well-received. The film also introduces new characters, including Monica Bellucci as Betelgeuse’s soul-sucking ex-wife, a playful addition to the story. Keaton’s energetic performance, paired with Tim Burton’s creative visual style, has critics calling it “one of the spooky season’s most unexpected pleasures” (WBUR).
Notable moments in the film include a gonzo musical number set to “MacArthur Park” and humorous throwbacks to iconic moments from the original movie. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is being hailed as a return to form for Burton, delivering a fast-paced, visually inventive spectacle.
