When it comes to horror comedies, it’s hard to beat classics like Ghostbusters and Beetlejuice. Given their nostalgic value and the strength of these IPs, it was inevitable we’d see new iterations. Ghostbusters had a rocky reboot in 2016 with an all-female cast but found its footing with Ghostbusters: Afterlife in 2021. Unfortunately, it stumbled again with Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire in 2023. I believe the inconsistency stems from straying away from the original vision. Ivan Reitman, who started the franchise, returned with his son Jason Reitman to helm Afterlife, bringing the franchise back to its roots in horror and comedy. However, after Ivan’s passing in 2022, Jason did not return for 2023’s Frozen Empire, and the result was underwhelming at best.

That’s why I was thrilled to see Tim Burton back at the helm for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a sequel to the iconic 1988 horror comedy Beetlejuice, which starred Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder. This new film is set many years after the original, with Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) now having a child, Astrid, played by Jenna Ortega. Keaton returns as Beetlejuice, joined by both original characters and new ones, including Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci, and Catherine O’Hara. The plot kicks off when a death in the Deetz family brings three generations together, and Beetlejuice is unleashed once more, bringing chaos back into their lives.

Fans of the 1988 classic will be delighted because the sequel retains the elements that made the original great. The film balances horror and comedy in equal measure, with both genres complementing each other perfectly. The solid script and top-notch cast, especially Jenna Ortega, who fits seamlessly into the film with her sarcastic humour and dark undertones, elevate the experience. Tim Burton’s world-building is exceptional as always, inviting fans back into a beloved chaotic universe and welcoming newcomers with open arms. The key to such films is not taking themselves too seriously, and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice excels in this regard.

The sequel successfully captures the spirit of the original while adding fresh elements to keep the story engaging. The horror-comedy balance, strong performances, and Tim Burton’s unique touch make it a must-watch, proving once again that with the right vision and talent, beloved IPs can be revived with success.

P.S. My Letterboxd handle is @BhumikGrover.