Beetlejuice is Back: Early Reviews for "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" Hint at a Worthy Sequel
After nearly 40 years, the wait is finally over. Tim Burton’s iconic "Beetlejuice" is back, not with a remake, but with a much-anticipated sequel, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice", set to haunt theaters on September 6th. This latest installment brings back the original cast members, including Michael Keaton as the mischievous Ghost with the Most, Winona Ryder reprising her role as Lydia Deetz, and Catherine O’Hara as the ever-so-stylish Delia Deetz. Adding to the mix is a new generation of Deetzes, with Jenna Ortega joining the family, alongside Monica Bellucci, Justin Theroux, and Willem Dafoe.
The news of a "Beetlejuice" sequel was met with initial skepticism, as fans wondered if a new story could capture the magic of the original film. However, the first wave of reviews have arrived, and the verdict so far is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics and social media influencers expressing their delight at the return of this beloved franchise.
A Return to the Weird and Wonderful
"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" appears to embrace the quirky and macabre aesthetic that made the original film such a cult classic. "It’s rewarding to have Tim Burton back in full creative command of the humor, the fantastical imagination and the gleeful morbidity on which he built his name," writes The Hollywood Reporter, suggesting that Burton has lost none of his signature style. JoBlo.com chimes in with, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is an enjoyable, fast-paced bit of lunacy from Tim Burton that should please the many who’ve waited decades for its arrival. It certainly leans into nostalgia throughout, but it also manages to have some bizarre new tricks up its sleeve."
The Legacy of Beetlejuice Lives On
Perhaps the most important factor contributing to the positive reception is the seamless continuity. "Michael Keaton doesn’t skip a beat," declares Perri Nemiroff, highlighting the enduring presence of the iconic character. The reviewers also praise the generational transition, with "Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega’s mother/daughter storyline" being a particular highlight, according to Nemiroff. Many reviewers acknowledge the film’s reliance on the legacy of the original, but emphasize that it’s more than just a rehash. "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice goes all-in on the legacy front, offering everything you want and less, playing as a Burton buffet that leaves you stuffed if not quite satisfied, and in no real hurry to go back for thirds," notes TheWrap.
Human Stakes Drive the Narrative
Although the film is unquestionably fun and full of "gleeful morbidity," reviewers emphasize the inclusion of deeper human themes this time around. "It stays loyal to the original cult classic while deepening human stakes," summarizes IndieWire. This suggests that the film won’t entirely rely on the comedic antics of Beetlejuice, but also delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth. "The film is a fun, darkly humorous, and unexpectedly touching look at the family relationships that bind us together, even in the afterlife," states Deadline. This suggests that the film is not merely a nostalgic throwback, but a legitimate sequel that builds upon the original film’s themes and characters.
Early Reviews: A Reason for Optimism
While the full picture will only be revealed once the embargo lifts and more diverse reviewers share their opinions, the early buzz surrounding "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is undeniably positive. The return of Tim Burton to the world he created with "Beetlejuice" seems to have resonated with the original fans, while also attracting new viewers intrigued by the potential of this new installment. Reviewers, even those who acknowledge the film’s inherit reliance on nostalgia, generally praise the new characters, the return of the original cast, and the engaging narrative.
Looking Ahead
The initial excitement surrounding "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" will likely only intensify as more reviews emerge, and the film begins to attract audiences. The question remains: can this sequel truly capture the spirit of the original, or will it become caught in the shadow of such a beloved classic? Only time will tell, but for now, the early reviews suggest that fans of "Beetlejuice" have a lot to look forward to. This is more than a simple nostalgic trip; it’s potentially a fresh take on a beloved concept, a testament to the longevity of Burton’s vision.
Ultimately, the success of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" will depend on its ability to appeal to both old and new fans, to deliver on the promise of humor and heart, and most importantly, to respect the legacy of the original film while forging its own path. As we impatiently await the release, the early reviews reveal a welcome promise: "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is not merely a nostalgia play, it’s a worthy addition to the "Beetlejuice" universe, a testament to the enduring power of Burton’s vision.
