As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but feel like I’ve won the lottery of fandom twice over with Jenna Ortega‘s latest role in Beetlejuice 2! Growing up watching the original movie and Wednesday, seeing this talented young actress bring Astrid Deetz to life is nothing short of a dream come true.
Actress Jenna Ortega will soon dominate our screens in another Tim Burton masterpiece! Known for her role as Wednesday in the series, she is now a part of an impressive ensemble cast in the upcoming film “Beetlejuice 2”. This sequel to the 1988 dark fantasy comedy follows the original starring Michael Keaton as the titular character, with Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, and other notable actors reprising their roles.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice marks Ortega’s second collaboration with Burton after Netflix blockbuster Wednesday. The 21-year-old plays the role of Astrid Deetz, Lydia’s daughter and Delia’s stepgranddaughter, in the sequel. Ahead of the release of the movie, TopMob exclusively spoke to Jenna Ortega about her casting process, her reaction to Beetlejuice Beetlejuice script, her second collaboration with Tim Burton and much more.
What was the casting process like for you?
Initially, Tim had proposed a meeting to talk about ideas for the second season of Wednesday, which we had been brainstorming for some time. When he suggested another get-together, I assumed it was more of the same discussion. As it turned out, I had a notebook filled with potential concepts for the second season, but instead of continuing our previous conversation, he handed me the Beetlejuice script. He made it clear that if I was interested, I should be, but there was no pressure to get involved if I wasn’t interested at all.
The script was extremely humorous. Initially, I hesitated due to the first one being a timeless classic, not wanting to tarnish its brilliance. Yet, with the original cast returning and Tim, undeniably eager for this project – a dream of his for years – my apprehension subsided. My on-set experiences have left me feeling very confident about it.
With Wednesday marking the second time you’re collaborating with Tim, I’m curious about your experience working with him once more. How does it feel to team up with him again?
Working with Tim again brings back a familiar feeling – it’s almost as if we picked up where we left off the first time. The trust he places in his collaborators is unwavering; whether you make decisions that are questionable or downright funny, he supports your choices. He encourages individuality and creativity but always steers you towards the correct path. His enthusiasm for this project is palpable, and I must say, his creative flair seems to have reached new heights this time around.
What was your first reaction reading the script?
As I settled down on boulders at the shoreline after meeting Tim, the winter sun bathed me in its chill. Yet, as I leafed through the script, it was filled with characters I’d known since childhood – a nostalgic journey unfolding amidst the frosty beach air.
I vividly recall experiencing a blend of nostalgia, joy, and anticipation, with the latter prevailing strongly. Despite uncertain participation, I found myself thinking, “This is bound to be special.”
So, what’s it like, having Winona Ryder as Astrid’s mom?
For quite some time now, Winona has been one of my favorite actors. I believe she’s associated with some incredibly intriguing productions. It often seems as though whenever I come across a film that piques my interest, she’s already involved in it. And then, I find myself thinking, “Naturally! She was always going to be part of it.” Working with her has been an absolute pleasure; she’s been one of the kindest colleagues I’ve ever had on set.
As her devoted follower, I can’t help but feel enriched by the knowledge she’s shared. She exudes generosity and vulnerability in equal measure, making her an extraordinary individual. I never dared hope for the chance to collaborate with her, but I’m incredibly thankful and elated that it happened. If given the choice, I would seize any opportunity to work with her once more, cherishing every moment along the way.
In the original movie, Astrid was around the same age as her mother Lydia. Now, Lydia is renowned for her ability to communicate with spirits. So, if we were to encounter Astrid about two decades later, what might she be up to given all the events in this wild tale?
20 years from now, Astrid will likely become an activist and philanthropist, focusing her efforts on preserving the rainforest, with a touch of bohemian spirit!
Suppose you find an impeccably built miniature city in your loft, what might that city represent, and which character from that city would you wish to materialize if given the chance?
The story of Alice in Wonderland has always been really exciting to me—I’d summon Alice and then force her to take me into her world down the rabbit hole.
If you could open a gateway to the hereafter and pass through it, how would your vision of the afterlife present itself?
Another afterlife beyond Tim’s is impossible for me to conceive. This movie has such a deep connection with my childhood and professional life that my mind stubbornly clings to it and doesn’t want to consider any alternatives!
On August 28, 2024, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice made its debut at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. The film will hit Indian screens on September 6, 2024. Apart from Jenna Ortega, the movie features Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, and Willem Dafoe in leading roles. Interestingly, Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara are reprising their roles alongside this new cast.
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2024-08-29 08:23