The classic film “Beetlejuice” is recognized for its charming characters, amazing visuals and unique take on dark humor. In contrast to modern films that mostly rely on computer-generated imagery, “Beetlejuice” is famous for its use of practical effects in a variety of media, including claymation, animation and puppetry. Fans and viewers, including myself, were ecstatic when learning about the sequel because it was assumed that it would capture the lively, yet tasteful, nature of the original.
However, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” has issues with its plot structure. The narrative becomes complicated, overwhelmed by numerous characters and relationships that shift focus away from the main storyline. The abundance of love interests and complicated dynamics can be confusing. The sequel centers on Lydia Deetz, who is now a professional psychic mediator trying to cope with her past while building a relationship with her daughter, Astrid. While this focus on character is admirable, the movie struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative. Relationships often feel rushed and underdeveloped, detracting from the main conflict, which is the return of Beetlejuice and the turbulent mother-daughter dynamic. Although the film attempts to tie these elements into a dramatic conclusion, many characters feel like they were added just to face unfortunate outcomes, contributing little to the overall plot. The most unfortunate character who was wasted was Bob, the lovable shrunken-headed subordinate of Beetlejuice.
Despite these flaws, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” shines in certain areas, particularly with the return of original cast members—Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara and Michael Keaton—who bring a nostalgic charm to their roles. Their performances skillfully recapture the essence of their characters, providing moments that display the witty humor of the original film. The visual creativity and imaginative set pieces keep viewers entertained, showcasing Tim Burton’s distinctive style. However, as enjoyable as these aspects are, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” lacks the emotional depth and consistency that made the original special.
It seems that “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is in quite the pickle. It is not a terrible film; it contains entertaining moments and bursts of creativity. Yet, it falls short of the original. For fans of the series, it provides a fun experience, but it may leave others wondering if a more focused narrative could have led to a better story.
Lapo Miles is a studio art major, minoring in physiology
