Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.... Noooooo!! Don't say it three times!

Review by regular contributor Val Ruloff 

This Tim Burton production is a greatly enjoyable sequel to Beetlejuice... remaining faithful the original "spirit" (!) This latest incarnation offers a whole new storyline, some new characters and adds some delicious twists, taking us on a riotous, adventurous romp which proves a mixture of fun-filled slapstick, comedy and laughter.... plus, an altogether more gothic humour and drama verging on darker territory. This is, of course, very much in keeping with all the best Tim Burton hallmarks and traditions. 

The photography and the locations conjure up the gothic atmosphere very effectively. The special effects are extremely impressive, of course. The musical score and sound merit a big shout-out, too. 

The serenade by Beetlejuice with his guitar, singing the Richard Marx ballad, "Right Here Waiting", is sublime.... and provides a very funny moment! The "Soul Train" concept and musical theme are inspired features and "MacArthur Park" is a great set-piece. The "Day-O" song has to be singled out as indispensable, due to fond affection and remaining so well-remembered from the original film. 

The audience appreciation was clearly evident, with both audible comments and laugh-out-loud moments aplenty. 

The cast earn very special recognition... especially because of the continuity with original Beetlejuice main cast members Michael Keaton as (Betelgeuse) Beetlejuice, Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz and Catherine O'Hara as Delia Deetz. 

There is plenty of homage paid to the original film, as referenced by Beetlejuice's comments on the passage of 36 years during his wait for Lydia Deetz and postponement of his nuptial plans. 

Lydia Deetz also references the passage of time and significance of past events, especially the impact upon her life since she was a teenager and became a mother. There are references to the Maitlands, Geena Davis' and Alec Baldwin's central characters in the original Beetlejuice, too. 

Daughter, Astrid, is a new character played by Jenna Ortega. Lydia Deetz's sometime fiancé, Rory, is played by Justin Theroux. Monica Bellucci plays Delores, who was married to Beetlejuice when he was alive, many centuries ago during the time of the Plague. These characters play pivotal roles in all of the storyline action. Great support is provided by Willem Dafoe as a ghost detective, Wolf Jackson, who was a 'B movie' star in life. Arthur Conti plays an enigmatic role as Jeremy Frazier, briefly involved with Astrid though doesn't qualify for any R.I.P. epitaph. Danny DeVito makes a very welcome appearance as a caretaker/ janitor in the afterlife, as does Nick Kellington as Bob, a zombie character. 

Now... with all these juicy morsels jam-packed, ready and waiting.... just beware!  

The Juice is Loose!