Michael Keaton Returns to Beetlejuice: A Journey Through Time and Talent

Michael Keaton, an actor celebrated for his versatility and unique screen presence, has returned to one of his most iconic roles—Beetlejuice. This comes 35 years after the original film’s release and follows a career that has seen him traverse a diverse array of characters and genres. Keaton’s return is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but a testament to his enduring appeal and talent. The sequel, aptly titled ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,’ reunites Keaton with director Tim Burton, who has cast him in five of his movies, each time recognizing something special in Keaton’s wild-card gleam and the look in his eye.

The upcoming indie film ‘Goodrich’ also features Keaton in a role that showcases his ability to bridge comedy and drama. In this film, he plays a Los Angeles art dealer attending a breath workshop, a scene that promises to highlight his comedic timing and dramatic depth. The screenplay, written by Hallie Meyers-Shyer, was crafted with Keaton in mind, further emphasizing his unique fit for roles that require a blend of humor and pathos. This duality in his acting prowess has been a hallmark of his career, from his early days in comedy to his more recent dramatic turns in films like ‘Dopesick’ and ‘Spotlight.’

Tim Burton’s decision to bring Keaton back for the ‘Beetlejuice’ sequel was not made lightly. Both Keaton and Burton initially had reservations about revisiting the character and the world they created over three decades ago. However, the return of the original cast and the opportunity to explore new facets of the story ultimately inspired them to move forward. In this sequel, Keaton’s screen time is limited, and the use of technology is minimized, focusing instead on practical effects that add to the film’s zany and macabre humor.

Keaton’s career resurgence, often labeled as a ‘comeback,’ is something he views with a degree of skepticism. While his performance in ‘Birdman’ earned him his first Oscar nomination and four Oscars for Best Picture, Keaton doesn’t fully embrace the notion of a comeback. He maintains a grounded perspective, refusing to let himself get desperate for roles. Instead, he focuses on smaller, more personal projects, such as ‘Knox Goes Away,’ a film he stars in and directs. This approach allows him to maintain creative control and stay true to his artistic vision.

Despite his success in darker, more violent films, Keaton has expressed a preference for roles that do not glorify violence. He believes that society should not be too glib about guns and violence, a sentiment that influences his choice of projects. In ‘Goodrich,’ for example, he plays a career-driven art dealer trying to redeem himself as a father to his adult daughter and nine-year-old twins. This role, like many of his recent ones, explores themes of family and redemption, reflecting Keaton’s own values and experiences.

Keaton’s personal life also mirrors the fatherly themes of his recent films. Raised in a large, Catholic family, he had a happy and adventurous childhood. He shares a close relationship with his son, Sean Douglas, a songwriter and music producer. This familial bond is evident in the way Keaton approaches his roles, bringing a sense of authenticity and emotional depth to his performances. His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level is one of the reasons for his enduring popularity.

In addition to his film work, Keaton has gained a large following on Instagram for his charming, unpolished posts. One of his most celebrated posts is a faux-ad for Carphone Warehouse, where he humorously rails against the absurdities of mobile carrier contracts. This post, like many of his others, taps into a kind of everyman resilience and distrust of technology, traits that resonate with his followers. Keaton sees his social media presence as a way to rebel and ‘throw things out there,’ reflecting his contrarian nature.

The ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ sequel, directed by Tim Burton, has been well-received, surpassing the original in many respects. The film, which opened at the Venice Film Festival, pays homage to its predecessor while introducing new elements that enhance its zany and macabre humor. Practical effects play a significant role in creating the film’s unique atmosphere, a hallmark of Burton’s style. Despite some flaws in the plot, the film has been praised for its humor and creativity, making it a worthy successor to the original.

In the sequel, Beetlejuice now works in an office in the underworld and is still pining for Lydia Deetz, played by Winona Ryder. Lydia, now a psychic mediator with a troublesome teenage daughter and a self-absorbed boyfriend, must navigate the complexities of her new life while dealing with Beetlejuice’s antics. The film addresses themes of aging, parenthood, and loss, but always returns to its humorous tone, ensuring that it remains true to the spirit of the original.

The film also reunites Tim Burton with some old friends and includes musical numbers and animated segments that add to its whimsical charm. Newcomers Jenna Ortega and Justin Theroux join the star-studded cast, bringing fresh energy to the film. The inclusion of these new characters adds depth to the story, making it more engaging for both old fans and new audiences. The film’s PG-13 rating reflects its darker and more mature storyline, with violent content, macabre and bloody images, strong language, and brief drug use.

Critics have praised ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ for its spooky humor and slimy visuals, with early reviews highlighting its ability to balance horror and comedy. Tim Burton’s unique talent for creating a morbid yet artistic world is on full display, making the film a visual and emotional treat. The return of original actors Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara adds a layer of nostalgia, while the new cast members bring a fresh perspective to the story.

Overall, ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ is a fun and enjoyable sequel that will make audiences smile, chortle, and even guffaw for its 104-minute runtime. It is a must-watch for fans of the original and anyone looking for a comedic and quirky escape. The film’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of Michael Keaton and Tim Burton, whose collaboration continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Beetlejuice, this sequel offers a delightful journey through a macabre and humorous landscape.