Beetlejuice: The mischievous ghost in a black and white suit is back

Beetlejuice. Image from Warner Bros. Pictures

After years of anticipation, the highly-awaited sequel to Beetlejuice, aptly named ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,’ is finally coming out, and it will be directed by the one and only Tim Burton. Tim Burton is the perfect choice for this because Beetlejuice is his creation. Without his unique style, cinematic flare, and vision, it wouldn’t be a true Beetlejuice movie.

Who would have ever thought that in the year 2024, we would witness the triumphant return of a new Beetlejuice movie? The mere sight of the official teaser trailer and photos has solidified my certainty, as the central character of this sequel, Beetlejuice, holds a cherished place in my nostalgic memories of childhood.

Yes, you heard that correctly, for those who are old enough to remember. Beetlejuice is the deranged yet dementedly funny ghost in a black and white suit from the late 80s.

Michael Keaton is currently experiencing a remarkable resurgence in his acting career as he prepares to once again embody another iconic role in his Beetlejuice character, following his successful return as Batman in ‘The Flash.’ Michael Keaton will be joined by returning veteran actresses Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara, and a new cast addition in the popular Jenna Ortega.

On a side note, Jenna Ortega reminds me of a young Winona Ryder. There’s something in their physical appearances that gives me that impression. I am uncertain about the role she will portray but I have an inkling, yet I refrain from speculating as I am committed to presenting facts. I truly believe that Jenna Ortega is the perfect choice to join the cast of the upcoming sequel. She possesses a unique look (deadpan expression) that sets her apart from her peers. It’s not about being goth or emo; it’s about her striking deadpan presence and exceptional acting skills. Wow! It’s incredible to see Jenna Ortega go from being a part of The Addams Family and the Scream franchise to now this! Her success streak with these awesome roles is truly impressive.

I must say, Michael Keaton appears to have hardly aged in his reprise portrayal of Beetlejuice, thanks to the remarkable make-up, prosthetics, and wardrobe he donned. Even Winona Ryder looks stunning for her age! Last but not least, the immensely popular Jenna Ortega has a supporting role in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ which will surely bring in new moviegoers of the younger demographic. With her addition to the cast, the movie truly feels like a multi-generational experience.

Image from Warner Bros. Pictures

I do not doubt that Michael Keaton, in his iconic Beetlejuice character, will provide her with an equally otherworldly memorable experience, just as he did for Winona Ryder decades ago, and it did leave a lasting artistic impression on Winona Ryder which would affect her taste in movie roles and I believe the same positive effect could happen with Jenna Ortega. It seems like things are coming full circle for Beetlejuice, and it’s truly exciting to witness.

I have a vague memory of the first Beetlejuice movie from my youth, as I was quite young when it was released. I caught glimpses of it on HBO Asia and was captivated by the animation version when it was featured as part of a Saturday morning cartoon block. While I remember the movie being quite peculiar, it was also thoroughly entertaining in its eccentricity. But now, having watched the movie many times since then, again, I can affirm my initial impressions: it was indeed bizarre, nightmarish, and trippy, but also exceptionally unique for its time, offering a strangeness unparalleled by any other movie of its era.

‘Beetlejuice’ truly showcased Tim Burton’s brilliance as a filmmaker and Michael Keaton’s range as an actor. The first Beetlejuice movie had a distinctive style: dark, gothic, funny, ingenious, and utterly original. You can anticipate experiencing all of that once again with ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.’

Be sure to mark your calendars and experience the twisted magic of ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ when it hits cinemas.