As a long-time fan of Tim Burton’s quirky masterpieces, I must say that I was initially taken aback by the absence of Adam and Barbara Maitland in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” However, upon learning that their departure wasn’t due to some cold, heartless studio decision but rather a thoughtful creative choice, I found myself appreciating Burton’s dedication to the story. The fact that he didn’t simply rehash the original film for the sake of fan service is truly admirable.
Warning: This article contains mild SPOILERS for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
As a dedicated cinephile, I can’t hide my excitement as Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice echoes through the air once more, bringing back Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, and Michael Keaton into Tim Burton’s distinctive universe. However, there’s a noticeable void in Burton’s anticipated sequel – the absence of Adam (Alec Baldwin) and Barbara Maitland (Geena Davis), who were pivotal characters in the original movie. The first film revolved around the Maitlands desperately seeking Betelgeuse’s (Keaton) aid to prevent their home from being sold post-death. Yet, they seem to have vanished without a trace in this new installment. One can only wonder, why are they conspicuously missing from the sequel?
In an interview with People Magazine, Burton shared that he didn’t originally plan for the Maitlands to reappear in “Beetlejuice 2”. During the film’s development, Burton felt that including them was more about satisfying fans and ticking boxes on a list of typical sequel requirements. However, the sequel doesn’t completely erase their presence from the story. Instead, it shows how the Maitlands discovered a way to escape the house they once haunted, which they refer to as a “loophole”. Burton expressed this by saying:
“For me, it wasn’t about simply checking off boxes. Despite their significant role in the initial project, I found myself concentrating on a different aspect instead.”
Although some fans may express disappointment that it took so long for director Tim Burton to produce a sequel to one of his iconic ’80s films, the extended wait was not only beneficial for his creative drive but also significantly shaped the narrative of the new installment. In the upcoming “Beetlejuice” sequel, titled “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”, we find the Deetz family gathering at Winter River following the demise of their patriarch. The original cast members Winona Ryder (as Lydia Deetz) and Catherine O’Hara (as Delia Deetz) return, with Jenna Ortega portraying Astrid Deetz, Lydia’s daughter. Tim Burton elaborated that:
“The sequel’s theme was heavily influenced by time, and the three-generation dynamic between mother, daughter, and granddaughter drew me in. This central idea served as the foundation for the story. I wouldn’t have been able to create it personally back then, say around 1989 or so.”
Michael Keaton Was ‘Hesitant & Cautious’ About His Beetlejuice Return
These days, it seems like countless reboots and sequels are getting the green light from Hollywood studios, leading some to question whether there’s any respect left for the originals or their legacies. However, Tim Burton and Michael Keaton were determined to ensure that the story was properly told in a potential sequel, as they didn’t want to risk damaging the fond memories associated with the cherished original film.
In a past chat with People Magazine, Michael Keaton mentioned that he and director Tim Burton had multiple discussions over time about reprising their roles for another “Beetlejuice” movie. Yet, efforts to initiate a sequel were halted as they couldn’t agree on a plotline worthy of such a significant comeback. Keaton put it this way:
We pondered, ‘It’s crucial that we do this correctly. I was apprehensive and careful, and I imagine he felt the same way. When we arrived, I decided, ‘Alright, let’s take a chance.'”
I’m thrilled to say that my patience paid off – they finally came up with a plotline fitting for our bio-exorcist, and it seems the sequel is receiving rave reviews so far. Both Keaton and Burton are being highly praised for their comeback performances.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
releases in theaters on September 6, 2024.
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2024-08-29 17:31