Beetlejuice 2, a highly anticipated sequel to the original film released in 1988, has officially wrapped filming after a pause due to a labor dispute. Director Tim Burton shared updates on social media about the progress of the film, which is set to be released in September 2024. The original cast members of Michael Keaton, Catherine O’Hara, and Winona Ryder will be reprising their roles, while new characters will be introduced, played by Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, and Monica Bellucci.
The plot of Beetlejuice 2 revolves around the Deetz family returning to their old home in Winter River, where Lydia’s daughter Astrid summons Beetlejuice despite warnings from her mother. The cinematographer teased that the film will explore the intricacies of keeping a family together over 30 years, set in a fantastical world. Details about the storyline are still under wraps, but trailers have shown plenty of havoc that Beetlejuice will cause in the small Connecticut town.
Tim Burton, the director of the original film, has tried to maintain the same spirit of the original fantasy horror comedy in the sequel. Burton focused on working with good people, actors, and puppets to capture the essence of why he enjoyed making movies. Jenna Ortega, one of the new cast members, shared that filming Beetlejuice 2 was some of the most fun she has ever had on a set. She praised the use of practical effects in the film, emphasizing the visual excitement it brings to the story.
The official title for Beetlejuice 2 has been revealed as Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a playful reference to the titular ghost’s name. The film will include the iconic song “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” as a memorable part of the original film. Catherine O’Hara confirmed that the song will be featured in the sequel, expressing her joy in working with the cast and crew, especially Michael Keaton and Jenna Ortega. The trailers provide a glimpse of the chaos and mischief that Beetlejuice brings to Winter River once summoned by Astrid.
Despite a previous attempt to create a sequel titled Beetlejuice Goes Hawaiian in the early 1990s, the project was eventually shelved by Warner Bros. The new sequel, Beetlejuice 2, aims to capture the essence of the original film while introducing fresh elements and characters. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the film in 2024, which promises to deliver a mix of fear, fun, and fantastical elements in the quirky world created by Tim Burton.
