Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice has garnered a cult status over the years and was commercially successful at the time of its release. Nearly thirty-five years after the original film, Burton is back with a sequel that has been highly anticipated among fans of the comedy-horror film. Recently, a poster for the sequel film was released online, which revealed its release date and new title.
Formerly known as Beetlejuice 2, the film’s official title was revealed to be Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. As a result, many fans must be curious regarding this change of title and the meaning behind the oddly specific title choice. At the same time, fans must also seek other details such as cast, plot, and release date for the sequel. Here is everything you need to know about Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
Why is Tim Burton’s Sequel Called Beetlejuice Beetlejuice?
Released in 1988, Beetlejuice is a fantasy comedy-horror movie directed by Tim Burton. The film’s title refers to Betelgeuse, aka Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton), a devious bio-exorcist from the Netherworld. The character became ingrained in pop culture after the film and remains popular to this day.
A sequel to the classic film was formally announced in May 2023, with Burton set to return as director. At the time, it was mostly referenced as Beetlejuice 2. However, in February 2024, a poster for the film was shared online, which revealed its official title as Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The title is a clever wordplay on the concept of sequels while referencing the titular character’s lore in the first film.
In the original film, Betelgeuse can be summoned by saying his name three times. The first film ends with the character stuck in the afterlife. However, the film’s title hints at Betelgeuse’s inevitable resurrection in the second installment. The numbers displayed on the poster also hint at the same. Hence, the film’s title Beetlejuice Beetlejuice references the second coming of Betelgeuse while also being a wordplay on the lore surrounding the iconic character.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Cast, Plot, Release Date: What to Expect?
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will feature the return of several cast members from the original film, along with some new additions. Those returning include actor Michael Keaton, who plays the titular role. Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara also reprise their roles as Lydia Deetz and Delia Deetz from the original film.
Jenna Ortega and Monica Bellucci join them as new characters Astrid Deetz and Betelgeuse’s wife. Additionally, Willem Dafoe will feature as a B-movie star turned ghost detective. Meanwhile, Justin Theroux, Arthur Conti, and Burn Gorman have been cast in undisclosed roles.
The sequel is likely to follow Betelgeuse as he escapes the afterlife and hatches a new plan to wreak havoc on the mortal world. The film’s screenplay is written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, based on a story from Seth Grahame-Smith. However, other plot details are being kept under wraps for the time being. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is slated to release in theaters on September 6, 2024.
Beetlejuice (1988) is streaming on Max.
