Key Takeaways:
– Main characters from the original Beetlejuice, namely Adam and Barbara Maitlands, are missing from the sequel.
– According to director Tim Burton, this was a deliberate move to focus the story on a new narrative.
– The sequel includes other original actors, such as Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara.
– Tim Burton's decision not to bring back Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis has not hindered the film's success.
– The sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, received a standing ovation at its premiere at the Venice Film Festival.
Loved the original Beetlejuice? Me too! However, as some of you might have noticed, the sequel to this iconic movie looks a bit different. Two key characters, who among other things, provided a wholesome dose of humor and spookiness, are missing. Yep, it's the strange but lovable Maitlands, Adam and Barbara! But rather than a slip-up, this omission was a calculated move by director Tim Burton.
Tim Burton Discusses the Maitlands' Absence
When Tim Burton was questioned about the absence of Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis from the sequel, he had a clear answer. He explained to People mag that the Maitlands were not absolutely essential for his vision of the Beetlejuice sequel. He didn't want to just “tick any boxes” by including all original characters. The director was more focused on creating a unique tale by concentrating on three generations of the Deetz family.
Burton stressed that a sequel like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which analyses the concept of time, couldn't have been created back in the late '80s. Therefore, his creative decision leaned towards a narrative-centric approach, rather than character continuity.
But hey, don't start mourning the absence of your favorite lovable ghosts just yet.
Returning Original Cast Members
Even if the Maitlands didn't make it, some originals did. Remember the quirky ghost with the most? That's right – Michael Keaton is back as our favorite black-and-white striped troublemaker! And let's not forget the dislikable but endearing Deetz family. Both Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara have returned to reprise their roles.
Catherine O'Hara, in particular, seems to have nailed it as Delia Deetz, earning substantial praise. As for the rest of the original cast, their return would not have made sense due to the time lapse, and sadly, some like Glenn Shadix (Otho) and Sylvia Sidney (Juno) have since passed away.
But all is not gloomy. Despite the change in cast, the sequel has managed to garner massive support.
Commercial Success of the Sequel
With or without the Maitlands, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is bouncing in terms of feedback! The movie is earning the highest praise for Tim Burton in a decade. Even our very own critic, Eric Walkuski, gives it a thumbs up, calling it “an enjoyable, fast-paced bit of lunacy.”
If that's not convincing enough, perhaps the standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival will be. The same festival where Beetlejuice Beetlejuice had its world premiere! Excitement is brewing for the film's theater release on September 6th.
Bottom Line
I know some of us may miss Adam and Barbara in the Beetlejuice sequel. But knowing Tim Burton, he has something fantastical up his sleeve. Let's wait and watch this space to see how this sequel unfolds. If Tim Burton's track record is anything to go by, we're in for a magically eerie ride!
Back to you now. How do you feel about Burton's decision to leave out the Maitlands in the sequel? Are you as excited as I am to watch the movie on opening weekend? Let's chat in the comment section.
