Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), directed by Tim Burton, is a nostalgic yet fresh sequel to the 1988 classic Beetlejuice. The film brings back beloved characters like Michael Keaton’s Beetlejuice and Winona Ryder’s Lydia, while introducing new faces like Jenna Ortega, who plays Lydia’s daughter, Astrid. Set against Burton’s signature quirky, gothic style, the story revolves around Lydia’s strained relationship with her daughter and the mischievous return of Beetlejuice, now dealing with personal demons, including a vengeful ex-wife.

Keaton’s performance as Beetlejuice is as energetic and chaotic as ever, embodying the same twisted charm that fans love. Ryder’s Lydia, now a middle-aged paranormal TV host, adds emotional depth, reflecting her life’s struggles. Ortega’s Astrid, skeptical and rebellious, creates an engaging dynamic with her mother while also developing her own storyline, including a budding teen romance. The interplay between these characters gives the movie heart, even amid the chaotic and humorous supernatural plotlines.

Burton sticks to practical effects like puppetry and stop-motion animation, which gives the film a refreshing, tactile feel compared to modern CGI-heavy movies. This not only pays homage to the original’s B-movie aesthetic but also enhances the film’s quirky visual style, making it a treat for fans of Burton’s earlier work. The humor and visual gags come thick and fast, with callbacks to the original film, including a reprise of the iconic “Day-O” calypso scene. However, Burton also adds darker and grislier elements to this installment, creating a more mature tone while keeping it fun and whimsical.

That said, the film’s multiple plotlines sometimes feel scattered, particularly the subplot involving Beetlejuice’s ex-wife, Dolores. While Monica Bellucci’s Dolores adds a new layer to Beetlejuice’s character, some viewers might find this storyline somewhat disconnected from the main narrative. Yet, the film’s zany energy and memorable performances keep it thoroughly enjoyable, despite these narrative hiccups.

Watching Beetlejuice Beetlejuice in theaters is an experience packed with high energy and excitement, with fans dressing up and bringing the nostalgia of the original. It’s a film that will likely appeal to long-time fans while still being accessible to new audiences, capturing the essence of Tim Burton’s unique style.

Rating: 4/5