Directed by Tim Burton and hitting theaters in 2024, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice brings back the beloved universe of the 1988 cult classic, reuniting Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara. They are joined by Jenna Ortega, Monica Bellucci, and Willem Dafoe. This sequel, written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar (based on a screenplay developed with Seth Grahame-Smith), continues the signature blend of horror comedy and “cardboard-puppet” fantasy that characterizes Burton's style. The film will be available on HBO Max starting February 11, 2026.
After a devastating tragedy, the Deetz family returns to Winter River. Lydia, still haunted by memories of Beetlejuice, finds her everyday life turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter Astrid accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife. Suddenly, chaos erupts as the boundaries between the two worlds blur, the rules of the beyond go awry, and the living become caught in a spiraling situation that they no longer control.
As the situation worsens, it’s clear that just a small trigger could bring back the most unpredictable bio-exorcist of all. Say his name three times—and the door to Beetlejuice could swing wide open again, with all the chaos, tricks, and mischief that entails. At the center of this new story, Astrid becomes the emotional anchor, while Lydia grapples with her past and the legacy of what she’s already faced.
Thirty-six years after the original film, Tim Burton and Michael Keaton aimed to maintain a handcrafted feel, blending modern effects with traditional techniques—including stop-motion—to preserve the visual texture and the artisanal spirit that defined the original. Filming began in May 2023, primarily taking place in the UK, with a few days spent in the United States, specifically Vermont and Massachusetts, where some iconic sets were recreated.
In addition to Michael Keaton returning as Beetlejuice and Winona Ryder reprising her role as Lydia, the sequel brings back Catherine O’Hara (Delia) and introduces new characters played by Jenna Ortega (Astrid), Monica Bellucci, Willem Dafoe, and Justin Theroux. Tim Burton is also teaming up with his regular collaborators, including composer Danny Elfman and costume designer Colleen Atwood, ensuring the film maintains a consistent aesthetic within his signature universe.
Our Review of Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice (2024):
If you're a fan of horror-comedy flicks that are delightfully nonsensical, this movie is right up your alley. Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice serves as a fitting follow-up to the 1988 classic. That said, you don't need to have seen or remembered the original to enjoy this one. Director Tim Burton has carefully crafted his approach: while the pace might feel slow to some, it allows for a refreshing reintroduction of characters and a deep dive back into the film’s zany universe.
In the original film, we followed Lydia Deetz, played by Winona Ryder. This time, the story shifts to her daughter, Astrid, portrayed by Jenna Ortega. After her grandfather’s accidental death, the family returns to Winter River for his funeral—and to clear out the house famously haunted by memories of Beetlejuice. Astrid dismisses her mother’s ghost stories, until the day she finds herself trapped in the afterlife, the realm of the dead. Lydia calls on the mischievous demon—whose name must not be spoken—Beetlejuice, to save her.
From screenplay to post-production, the film stays true to Burton’s signature eccentric style, featuring several familiar faces from the 1988 cast, including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara. It’s a real treat! The plot is completely offbeat, and the updated special effects—mixing new technology with stop-motion—bring a fresh energy to the sequel. Moreover, each character retains their quirky essence, especially Beetlejuice himself with his unpredictable, chaotic, and off-kilter personality, taking audiences from laughter to unease and awkwardness. Honestly, we quickly grow attached to this versatile ghost, capable of singing for his beloved or outwitting his vengeful ex-wife!
This comedy keeps you entertained from start to finish—enjoy it without moderation or stress!
Reviving the world of Winter River and its supernatural themes, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice leans on the original cast’s return while introducing fresh faces to expand the mythology, all wrapped in the darkly comedic tone signature to Tim Burton.
For those looking to explore further, check out our curated list of the HBO Max highlights for February, our comprehensive guide to latest streaming releases across all platforms, and today's top pick in what to watch today in streaming.
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