Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Review: Michael Keaton resurrects his ghostly character 36 years later

Tim Burton returns 36 years later to direct the sequel to his 1988 cult horror comedy Beetlejuice.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice includes many of the original characters, Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice, Winona Ryder (Lydia Deetz), and Catherine O'Hara (Delia Deetz). However, the film also has some new additions to the cast, Jenna Ortega as Astrid (Lydia's daughter), Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci and Justin Theroux. The film follows the Deetz family as they return home after an unexpected family tragedy. Lydia Deetz is still haunted by the ghost prankster Beetlejuice and now also has to try and raise her rebellious teenage daughter Astrid whilst also protecting her from Beetlejuice and the other creatures from the afterlife.

This sequel compliments the original film, Michael Keaton is amazing as Beetlejuice, just like in the original he steals every scene he is in. Catherine O'Hara is hilarious as Delia, she perfectly encapsulates the over the top, eccentric character. Jenna Ortega was born to play Tim Burton roles, and she perfectly encapsulates the daughter of the beloved character Lydia. Ortega brings an emotional heart to the story, which we didn't really see in the original film, this brings a new dynamic which is fun to watch.

At moments there were some issues with the pacing of the film, and I felt like the story was a little messy especially with the subplots which seemed a bit out of place and rushed at moments. Some of the new characters (Willem Dafoe and Monica Bellucci) feel a bit inconsequential, they don't really have any development throughout which makes them fall a little flat. However, this film still has the quirky magic of the original film with its use of soundtrack and the amazing special effects and set design it all pays a homage to the original.

The sequel may not live up to the original 1988 film but it is a fun and enjoyable experience which compliments the first film. When I watched it in the cinema everyone was having a good time, people were laughing, some even singing along to class moments, and also some even came dressed as Beetlejuice himself. This enjoyable film brought loads of people to the cinema as the original meant so much to them, so even though it wasn't amazing it was still entertaining and nostalgic seeing Michael Keaton back in his Beetlejuice costume.