In today’s cinema, it’s quite rare for big franchises and blockbusters to avoid the use of CGI, but Michael Keaton insists on being practical when it comes to his latest project, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Tim Burton’s beloved comedy horror gets a sequel and fans should expect to see more practical effects that would bring the nostalgic feeling of the first movie.
Perhaps this decision stems from Keaton’s own experience starring in Andrés Muschietti’s The Flash. He reprised his role as Batman, but unlike his earlier versions of the Caped Crusader, the production welcomed the actor with extensive use of CGI.
Michael Keaton Reveals Using Practical Handmade Effects On Beetlejuice 2
Michael Keaton returns as Beetlejuice for the 2024 sequel with Tim Burton still at the helm. The first movie was a raging success upon its release in 1988, not only because of its brilliant and bizarre storyline but also because of its stunning set design.
Looking at the costumes, props, and locations, everything is tangible and “handmade”, as Keaton would tell GQ. In fact, he was responsible for bringing the same old spirit of the franchise to its modern sequel. He noted that using practical effects on movies is something “that’s really hard to do in 2024.” Filmmakers have been heavily reliant on CGI because there is no time to do arts and crafts when you’ve got a deadline.
Keaton also pointed out how CGI somehow draws the audience further from the movie. It works for some films, like the superhero and space-themed ones, but oftentimes, they are not really enjoyable to look at. There is no sense of tangibility that would make the viewers feel what the actors also feel in a specific scene.
As a veteran of this industry, Keaton pushed for the use of practical effects in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. For sure, Burton loved the idea, and with the joint forces of realistic effects and a bit of help from advanced technology, the movie will make a very aesthetically pleasing visual spectacle for the fans.
How Too Much CGI Ruined Ezra Miller’s The Flash
Keaton’s suggestion to go back to the traditional ways of props-making stems from the failure of Ezra Miller’s The Flash. Everyone knows how controversial the production of that film was, but setting that aside, the extreme use of CGI also ruined the essence of the film.
While it is a superhero movie and there is no way to show Barry Allen/The Flash’s powers on screen other than using computer effects, they have forgotten to draw the line. They even used CGI to place Miller’s face on a stunt double, which ended up looking out of proportion and ridiculously hilarious.
The report regarding Beetlejuice 2 prioritizing practical effects should be great news for the fans. They are certainly looking forward to another cinematic masterpiece from one of the pioneers of gothic horror films.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice arrives in theaters on September 6, 2024.
