This new sequel to the classic movie ‘Beetlejuice’ came out not too long ago, on September 6th, 2024. People have been looking forward to seeing this movie since it was announced, but the real question is this: Will it hold up to the original?
With some of the original cast returning to help in the sequel, and many other popular actors joining in, fans were excited to see how it would turn out. But, as the trailers were released, some people started to feel a little uneasy at the idea of a bad movie potentially ruining the original.
“I think it will not be as good because usually when they make another version of an old movie that was already good by itself, they ruin it,” said Gracie Cottingham, a fan of the original movie. While this statement may be true in some cases, does it apply to Beetlejuice Beetlejuice? “The overstuffed follow-up lacks the same unhinged, kooky magic,” Brian Truitt wrote in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ review: Michael Keaton’s moldy ghost lacks the same bite. Is it true that this sequel may just be a cash grab, using popular actors to gain more traction online? A sequel packed full of poorly thought-out plotlines and underdeveloped characters? Or is it a good movie, one that stays true to the original and has the same energy that made the first one so lovable?
Lily Shelton stated, “Originally, I was quite skeptical of the idea of a sequel. However, all of the reviews I’ve heard have been positive, and, at the very least, I love Winona Ryder, so any movie she’s in can’t be too awful… hopefully.” While some people are hung up on the confusing plot lines, others are just happy to have a sequel to one of their favorite movies. “It is an amazing sequel to the original,” said Alyssa Jenkins. “It carries much of the same themes and is just as entertaining as the last.” Are people just overly critical, too scared to accept new media to this 35-year-old franchise? Even though some find the new visuals odd and unnecessary, do they stay true to the characters portrayed in the first movie?
With tons of promotional collaborations, this movie has been advertised everywhere. Even Roblox, a popular kids’ game, collaborated with Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to help sell online tickets. They even came out with a collectible decorative popcorn bucket featuring one of the iconic animals from the original film. Will all this promotion pay off in the end? Or will it make fans think this movie is milking the franchise, using the Beetlejuice image to get money?
In the end, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has made at least four times its budget so far, so whatever they’re doing, it’s working. Fans are split down the middle on their opinions, but most are just happy to spend time watching a funny movie with friends and family.
