Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) ***

On a rewatch, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), Tim Burton's 36-year-in-the-making sequel to his classic 1988 film Beetlejuice (review), is still fun. Yes, it's overcooked (there's a lot going on in this movie). Yes, there are too many characters and storylines. Yes, some of the new characters get way too much screen time (as well as one old one in weirdly roundabout ways). Yes, some of the new characters don't really need to be part of the storyline. Yes, some of the dialogue is very expository (particularly in its delivery). Yes, some of the jokes don't land. Yes, the cinematography is bizarre (far too many closeups and oddly framed compositions). Yes, maybe I'm more forgiving than I normally would be because I love the first film and its characters so much. 

But...there is a good deal to appreciate. Michael Keaton is mostly a pleasure to watch. Jenna Ortega fits well into this universe. Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara are both solid, though it feels like they were trying a little too hard. Justin Theroux, Willem Dafoe, and Monica Bellucci are all great actors and have some fun moments, though their characters only complicate the plot. The production design of the afterlife is excellent and really a joy to revisit. There are lots of new and creative dead people and lots of fun makeup. Most of the effects appear to be practical and quite visually pleasing. There are some amusing musical numbers. The overt callbacks to the original are minimal (there's even a subtle nod to Charles Deetz's Marcel Marceau joke, which I greatly appreciate).

So while the film certainly has as many flaws as it does positives, I can say that the second time around I still smiled a lot and that I was entertained. Maybe this sequel wasn't necessary and who knows how it will hold up over time, but it's enjoyable comfort food cinema.

Tim Burton Feature Films Ranked