Ghosts Have Funfrom 1998, was a huge success. It even gained an attraction at Universal Orlando’s parks, and its main character, Beetlejuice, became a pop icon. Since then, there have been talks about a sequel. But only now, 36 years later, has it been possible to make it happen. And it came with Tim Burton again as director (his first film since Dumbowhich was a huge flop, but I like it!). Almost the entire cast also returns, with the addition of Jenna Ortega and Monica Bellucci (who started dating the director during filming). You know what? I went along for the ride, and I had a blast!
The sequel takes us back to the house in Winter River where everything happened in the first film. There, three generations of the Deetz family reunite after an unexpected tragedy. Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), now an adult, is the mother of teenager Astrid (Jenna Ortega). The two have relationship problems, and everything gets more complicated when the mother accepts Rory’s (Jutin Theroux) marriage proposal. Of course, in the midst of all this confusion, the portal to the world of the dead ends up being reopened. This unexpected act brings back the eccentric (not to mention) Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton), who, once again, transforms the Deetz’s life into true chaos. But he will also have to face a crazed ex-wife who has been brought back to life (Monica Bellucci).
What did I think?
Of course, the film is not as “well-rounded” as the original, but for all fans it is a gift. That’s because that mix of gothic horror and comedy returns with full force here. The script perhaps takes too many turns – back and forth to the world of the dead. And there are also too many characters (including Willem Dafoe’s). However, there are moments so magical that it is impossible not to get involved and have fun. Especially the use of the soundtrack – simply perfect. Right at the beginning, during the credits, it is a delight to see Monica Bellucci “rebuilding” herself to the sound of Tragedyby the Bee Gees. And there are others that are equally sensational, especially the use of the classic from the first film (Banana Boat). This is without counting the sequence of Soul Train and the almost wedding (I won’t say what the song is so as not to give spoilers).
The cast is great (except for Winona overdoing her faces and expressions). Jenna Ortega does very well, Catherine O’Hara is always wonderful. Of course, the film is directed by Michael Keaton. It seems like time has stood still for him. And the actor also clearly loves the character. Tim Burton also makes up for the absence of Jeffrey Jones, who played Charles, Winona’s character’s father, very well. For those who don’t know, the actor was accused of sexual assault and retired. Those who know the story will be even more amused by how the director resolved the “problem”.
It doesn’t have the magic of the first one (available on MAX), but it’s a crazy and fun sequel that works. And it will make you have fun with this Beetlejuice 2.0.
Eliane Munhoz
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