Tim Burton on the Long-Awaited "Beetlejuice 2": A Personal Journey
The long awaited "Beetlejuice 2," officially titled "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," is about to hit screens, finally bridging the gap from "When are you doing Beetlejuice 2?" to "What took you so long?" Director Tim Burton reveals that the answer lies in the evolution of his personal experience. In a press conference, Burton spoke candidly about his creative process, explaining why a sequel to the beloved 1988 film couldn’t have happened until now.
"Questions about a sequel have been asked from the very beginning," Burton confessed, "But nothing clicked and truly, it couldn’t have happened until now. It was only recently where I just… put all the noise away and [realized], ‘Okay, I love the Lydia character.’ That was the character that I connected with…this teenager. I remember [wondering], ‘Well, what happened to this person 35 years later?’ You know, it’s a bit like [documentary film] 35 Up. You know what weird thing—you go from cool teenager to what, some kind of fucked up adult, or whatever? And what relationships do you have? Do you have kids and…what’s your relationship with that? So it’s not something I could have done back then; it’s only something you could do once you experience those things yourself."
Burton connects the film to his personal journey, highlighting the passing of time as a catalyst for understanding and empathy. He drew a parallel with the documentary film "35 Up," which follows the lives of individuals over decades. This resonated with his own experience, making the idea of exploring Lydia’s life in adulthood far more meaningful later in life: "It’s almost like a mirror reflecting my own growth," he said.
"And so for me, it just became a very personal movie, like a kind of weird family movie…that became the emotional hook. The three generations of mother, daughter, granddaughter, life, death—just basic, normal things that we all experience and then, especially if you’re lucky enough to get older, you feel those things. So that’s where it really started and it really could have only happened for me after all this time."
The film is no longer just a comedic horror flick; it becomes a reflection on familial relationships, the passage of time, and the inevitable change life brings. He added, "This film, like Big Fish, truly came from a deeply personal place. I couldn’t have made that film before my father died. I [could] only make that having those feelings that surprised me. So it’s the same as this."
The Sequel and the Legacy of "Beetlejuice"
Of course, the elephant in the room was the absence of Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis, the ghostly couple at the heart of the original film, Adam and Barbara Maitland. In their place, the film brings in a new generation, including Jenna Ortega who, like Winona Ryder before her, embodies the spirit of Lydia Deetz, the teenage goth who was such a prominent character in the first movie.
"I loved working with those guys," Burton said earnestly. "I love the first [movie]. I loved all the cast. But it really was—I didn’t think about it, because I wasn’t out to make a sequel per se, you know? I didn’t really want to just throw stuff in just to throw it in…just given the scenario and them being ghosts and all that sort of thing. It just felt like ‘this is the way we did it [in the first movie.’”
This decision reflects Burton’s desire to create a story that stands on its own and is not simply a retread of the original. "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" embraces its roots while forging its own path, focusing on the legacy Lydia has inherited and the new challenges she faces as an adult.
The Impact of "Beetlejuice"
The original "Beetlejuice" was a critical and commercial success, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and becoming a cult classic for its unique blend of horror and comedy. Its influence can still be felt today, with elements of the film being referenced in countless other works.
"Beetlejuice" was one of the first films to successfully capture the unique sensibility of the 80s, blending dark humor and gothic aesthetics, a style uniquely Burton’s. While the film is often categorized as "horror," its enduring appeal lies in its irony, its clever dialogue, and its endearing characters. It is as much a comedy as it is a horror film, with a memorable soundtrack and iconic characters that still resonate with audiences.
The Legacy of Lydia Deetz:
Lydia, with her iconic goth style and her fascination with the macabre, remains a pop culture icon. She has inspired countless cosplayers, artists, and musicians, and her influence can be seen in everything from fashion to music to literature. Her influence even extends beyond entertainment: her rebellious spirit and unapologetic love of her own individuality has inspired many to embrace their own uniqueness.
In "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," Lydia’s character is given a chance to grow. This isn’t just about a teenager who loved the macabre; it’s about exploring the complexities of navigating adulthood while dealing with familial inheritances, both literal and metaphorical. Burton has often spoken about his desire to explore themes of family and connection, making "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" a natural progression in his filmography.
A Deeper Look at Themes and Character Growth:
The film will explore themes of family, legacy, and the complex dynamics of intergenerational relationships. It touches on the ways in which family ties can be both a source of strength and conflict, particularly in the context of an unconventional family like the Deetzes.
"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" also expands on the relationship between Lydia and her mother, Delia Deetz, a powerful and sometimes difficult character who, in the first movie, was shown to prioritize her own needs. This was a dynamic that many audiences found relatable, as it mirrored the often rocky relationship between mothers and daughters.
The sequel dives deeper into the nuances of their relationship, showcasing the different challenges they face as women in different stages of life. Burton explores complicated family dynamics, the complexities of grief and loss, and the power of love and acceptance in unlikely places.
"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is not just about bringing back a beloved character; it’s about exploring the nuances of family and the enduring power of connection in the face of change, loss, and even the afterlife. With its unique blend of humor, horror, and heart, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" promises to be a fascinating and engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Beyond "Beetlejuice": A Look at the Future of Tim Burton
Tim Burton has always been a visionary director, known for his unique style, which combines elements of gothic horror, dark fantasy, and whimsical comedic storytelling. His films have consistently pushed the boundaries of genre, offering audiences a unique and often unsettling glimpse into the human condition.
As Burton continues to explore new themes and push his creative boundaries, fans can only wonder what imaginative worlds he will create in the coming years. The influence of his work on modern film is undeniable, as creators continue to be inspired by his darkly whimsical style. Whether it’s the gothic charm of "Beetlejuice," the eerie beauty of "Edward Scissorhands," or the quirky charm of "Alice in Wonderland," Burton has created worlds that capture the imagination and resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" seems like a natural progression in this evolution, allowing him to further explore his fascination with the strange and the beautiful, the playful and the poignant, through a lens of personal experience and the passing of time. It will be interesting to see how his personal growth has informed this newest venture and how it adds a new layer to the "Beetlejuice" story. "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" opens September 6th, and fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the "ghost with the most," and the stories he has to tell.
