Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5)
Tim Burton’s career has been defined by bizarre twists and turns reflected in each project he undertakes. The world has had an on-again-off-again with this eccentric style and dark take on the world. Over the past decade, many of his films have struggled to find their audience, and critics haven’t been kind to the celebrated director’s work either. This led him to dig back into his contorted treasure trove of films to potentially conjure up the magic of his past, and what better option than Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton)?
Three decades have passed since the Deetz family discovered that their recently acquired home was haunted by ghosts and that mischievous demon who’s name unleashes him on the world. After an unexpected tragedy, the family must return to Winter River, and all must come home to grieve. Lydia (Winona Ryder) has a reality show capitalising on her paranormal abilities. At the same time, her stepmother, Delia (Catherine O'Hara), continues to grow her brand in the world of performance art. Yet, both struggle to connect with Lydia’s daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), who lives out her existence as the angsty teen who is still mourning the death of her father. As the Deetz head back to the small town and look at the model of the little village, Astrid decides to put the paranormal boundaries of the family’s past and introduce herself to the Bio-exorcist named Beetlejuice.
The original Beetlejuice was only Tim Burton's second film, and for those who dig out the DVD to rewatch this story unfold, it is like seeing the Genesis of his career. The campy humour, the macabre visual effects and the over-the-top antics of his lead character set the stage that is now being revisited over three decades later. While the original doesn’t weather the decades as well, this new chapter does prove it has something to offer this new era. Michael Keaton, Willem Defoe and Catherine O'Hara seem to have the time of their lives as they are allowed to rise in this darkly, comedic world. Then, to bridge into this generation with Wednesday’s It Girl, Jenna Ortega, along with her potential love interest played by Arthur Conti, this chapter has something for each generation. Also, if everyone doesn’t come out loving Bob, you may have missed the point of the whole film.
Granted, you need to enjoy the darker sides of comedy and the afterlife to truly embrace Burton’s films. Yet, he stays true to this side of his storytelling, which usually engages with the undead, ghouls and bodily dismemberment. Suppose any characters seem to be forgotten souls within this screenplay. In that case, it must be the talented Monica Bellucci as Beetlejuice’s estranged wife, Delores. Her role seems to be the setup for a significant historical component that never really comes to fruition. Yet, despite a few subtle missteps, the overall experience was surprisingly good and a return to form for Burton.
Be sure to say his name only twice. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will satisfy your cinematic journey's macabre, comedic, and nostalgic sides this season.
Reel Dialogue: What are your thoughts on the afterlife?
It is hard to miss Tim Burton’s dark and disturbing view of life after death. His views of death and what comes after may be comical on some level, but they show that his expectations are rather depressing and grotesque. This grim view of life has its roots in a godless world and contains little hope or joy. Eternity looks to be more horror than hope.
Yet, this film blasts open the door to the discussions of life after we die. Despite watching Tim Burton’s despairing view of eternity, one can know that a more hopeful option is on offer. The Bible was a refreshing and appealing look into the afterlife. For those interested, you need not say anyone’s name three times. Instead, take some time to engage with the words of the Bible to see that the afterlife does exist and how, through Jesus, it can be one of hope, joy and love.
This would be a great time to pick up a Bible and open to the end. Yes, it is okay to read ahead. Revelation is a cracker of a book and one worth sitting down and discussing with a friend about the hope that can come in a discussion about the inevitable end to life.
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