Movie Review # 694: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

And now, everyone, today, let’s review a film that was apparently a sequel to an old cult classic film from 1988. Presenting to you all my review of the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice!

Plot: After circumstances cause Astrid Deetz (Jenna Ortega), the daughter of Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) to end up in the afterlife, Lydia reluctantly decides to summon the demon ghost of Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) to enlist his help in rescuing her. Now, will they be able to save Astrid before she ends up being forced to stay in the afterlife for good?

Okay, I have to confess, even though I originally meant to, I didn’t get around to seeing the first film, from 1988. So, I was debating whether or not to even review this sequel in the first place. Ultimately, I decided that since it’s only a second film, to go ahead, and review it anyway. I will say that despite only seeing the second film, and not the first as well that I have a fairly good understanding of the storyline overall. That being said, though this film does feel somewhat convoluted at times, it is still a fun family film. First off, how could we not appreciate Michael Keaton apparently returning as the title character himself? Man, does he do well playing the part since Jim Carrey voicing The Grinch in the live-action adaptation of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, or even Robin Williams voicing the Genie in Aladdin, for example. Keaton helps bring life to Beetlejuice in terms of making him hilarious, have a quirky personality, and more. Also, how could you not appreciate him handling some situations in very creative ways? Don’t believe me? All the more reason to see this film, if you haven’t yet, and I’m sure you’ll understand what I mean. The other characters were also likable, like Lydia Deetz, her daughter, Astrid, a teenager named Jeremy Frazier, and other characters as well. As for some of the CGI, though some of it could feel a little dated sometime in the future, that aspect is also very good. The world building, especially of the afterlife, was superb as well. Sure, some of it could have maybe been explored a little more. Still, for what it was, it was definitely very cool. Finally, for positives, how could I mention how hilarious Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is at quite a few moments in this film, even if some of the humor was a little dark at times.

But with all of these making the film sound great, this sequel does fall in a few ways. For one, there were some situations in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice that could have likely been handled a little better, to a point where, in some ways, some people might end up wishing that this sequel didn’t exist. Again, the sequel is enjoyable overall, but still. The film can also feel a little too depressing at times. Which, that leads me to my final point. There were times when Beetlejuice Beetlejuice could potentially feel a little too dark, and scary for children. I’m sure that maybe that was the case for the first film, but still. Well, there’s typical Tim Burton for you, I guess. Also, part of me is surprised that Beetlejuice has apparently, from what I’ve heard of him in the first film, hasn’t seemed to grow as much as a character in this sequel. Whatever, I guess.

And that’s my review for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Though it can have a dark, sad, and depressing tone at times, it is still a very fun film in whose comedy is carried on by characters like Beetlejuice himself. I would say that if you like comedy, enjoyed the first film, and are a hardcore Tim Burton fan, then you’ll probably like this film. Either way, definitely see Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, if you still have yet to, and see what you think!

Final Grade: B

P.S. I have had a busy schedule for the past couple weeks, and will be busy with life for the next week, or two. Because of that, I probably won’t make it to seeing movies, nor get to reviewing movies again until maybe October 13th, or shortly after. Anyway, just thought you all should know so that none of you think that my days of seeing movies are over, or something like that. Well, I just wanted to throw that out there.