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This week at Tryon Theatre is “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice,” the long-anticipated sequel to the 1988 film “Beetlejuice.” 

The first film in this series was born of director Tim Burton’s golden era, in which his imagination and creativity were explored with clarity and earnest affection for his comically macabre worlds. “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice,” in contrast to many long-awaited sequels, has been created with a loving and genuine appreciation for the material that found itself so celebrated by both critics and fans alike. “Beetlejuice” was a surprising hit for its time, and securely cemented itself in pop culture—a weird, creepy, and beloved film. 

At the center of this franchise’s success is the performance of its titular character, brought to life by the tremendously talented Michael Keaton. Keaton’s talent for portraying insanity is brought to its zenith in his interpretation of this demonic trickster: manic, malevolent, and maniacal. Keaton’s acting is inseparable from the construction of Beetlejuice, and he brings this character to life once more in this film, giving another stellar and absorbing, if not disturbing, performance. While the character of Beetlejuice makes for a striking visual in his striped suit and bleached white face, it is the physical acting in Keaton’s portrayal that elevates the performance to such a memorable degree. The influence of slapstick and the comic language of that era of cinema is visible in Keaton’s portrayal. 

This film revisits characters from the first movie, along with incorporating new. With a direct connection to the first film, one would be wise to consider “Beetlejuice” required viewing, both in preparation of the plot as well as the establishment of characters. The first film will prepare any viewer for the given tone of the “Beetlejuice” world, a world replete with unsettling images, corny humor, and sinister silliness. 

As with the first film, “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” will not be very viewers’ cup of tea, but Tim Burton’s “brand” is well-known and largely adored given its darker elements. This film was made for the fans of the first film, for those who already find great humor and charm in the manicured madness. 

However, to situate this film on the spectrum of “horror” places it far closer to Mel Brooks than it does to Hitchcock, an approach to the horrific that is more playful and comedic than it is properly scary. 

Ultimately, “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” is a film made for a specific audience. However, that audience can feel confident that they will enjoy this sequel, with both Burton and Keaton working in unison to return to the magic they once made together. And, while this attempt at striking lightning isn’t quite as bright as the first time, it has plenty of spark to spare, making for a fun, spooky time! 

We hope you join us for “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!”