Beetlejuice Beetlejuice – A Phantasmagorical Return to Form
Written by Zoe Crombie
As far as films for the Halloween season go, there are typically two directions: outright horror, and something a little lighter that errs on the spooky side. For years, Tim Burton was the master of the latter, bringing us films like Edward Scissorhands, Batman Returns, and Corpse Bride that are perfect for the longer, darker nights. Of these, the best is arguably the much beloved Beetlejuice, a quirky yet oddly poignant exploration into death and the undead that – thankfully – received a sequel in the form of one of Burton’s best films in years.
Stars like Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara from the original film return, transformed from fresh faced newcomers to beloved genre icons, and 73-year-old Michael Keaton manages to bring a respectable amount of energy to the Ghost with the Most so many years on. New additions to the weird world of Beetlejuice are equally well cast, from Justin Theroux as Lydia’s condescending producer and Jenna Ortega as her sceptical daughter to Burton’s new partner and muse Monica Bellucci as a soul sucking succubus. However, the real star here is Burton’s use of the kind of practical effects that made him famous, with his green tinged vision of the underworld being brought to life with creative sets, makeup and costumes once again.
If you’ve found yourself less keen on some of Burton’s later offerings, you might be pleasantly surprised by Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a return to his kitschy lovable beginnings that are celebrations of oddness and outcasts above all else.
Catch Beetlejuice Beetlejuice on the 4th, 6th & 9th October.
