Beetlejuice (1988)

Detailed Summary

The Maitlands’ Death

Barbara (Geena Davis) and Adam Maitland (Alec Baldwin) are a happily married couple living in a quaint New England town. Their lives are cut short in a car accident, and they soon find themselves trapped as ghosts in their own home, unable to leave.

The Deetz Family Moves In

The Deetz Family Moves InNot long after, the Deetz family moves into the Maitlands’ house. The family consists of Charles (Jeffrey Jones), his eccentric sculptor wife Delia (Catherine O’Hara), and Charles’ goth daughter Lydia (Winona Ryder). Delia has grand plans to renovate the house in her artistic vision, much to the Maitlands’ horror. Barbara and Adam attempt to scare the Deetzes away but fail.

Summoning Beetlejuice

Desperate for a solution, the Maitlands summon Beetlejuice, a crude and unpredictable “bio-exorcist” played by Michael Keaton. Although hesitant, Barbara and Adam summon Beetlejuice to help them rid their house of the Deetzes. His chaotic and dangerous methods, however, quickly spiral out of control.

Beetlejuice’s Chaos

Beetlejuice terrorizes the Deetz family with bizarre and macabre stunts, much to the Maitlands’ dismay. Lydia, who has the unique ability to see the Maitlands, becomes friends with them. Together, they try to find a way to reclaim the house without Beetlejuice’s interference.

The Wedding

In a twisted scheme to gain power, Beetlejuice attempts to marry Lydia, believing this will allow him to enter the world of the living permanently. The Maitlands intervene, and with Lydia’s help, they manage to send Beetlejuice back to the afterlife.

Movie Ending

Ultimately, the Maitlands and the Deetzes reach a peaceful coexistence. Lydia becomes happier and more well-adjusted, while the Maitlands regain control of their home. The film ends on a positive note, with the two families harmoniously sharing the house. Lydia even shares a joyful moment with the Maitlands after a successful day at school. Meanwhile, Beetlejuice faces a humorous form of retribution in the afterlife waiting room.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Beetlejuice” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

“Beetlejuice” is a horror comedy with elements of fantasy. It blends dark humor, quirky characters, and supernatural themes in a uniquely Tim Burton style.

Cast

• Michael Keaton as Betelgeuse (Beetlejuice)
• Alec Baldwin as Adam Maitland
• Geena Davis as Barbara Maitland
• Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz
• Catherine O’Hara as Delia Deetz
• Jeffrey Jones as Charles Deetz
• Glenn Shadix as Otho

Film Music and Composer

The score for “Beetlejuice” was composed by Danny Elfman. The music is whimsical and eerie, perfectly capturing the film’s tone. The movie also features Harry Belafonte’s calypso songs, notably “Day-O” and “Jump in the Line.”

Filming Locations

• East Corinth, Vermont: The primary location for the exterior shots of the Maitlands’ house and the town.
• Culver Studios, California: Interior scenes and soundstage work were filmed here.

These locations helped create the film’s quaint yet eerie atmosphere.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Award: Won Best Makeup.
• Saturn Awards: Nominated for Best Fantasy Film, Best Actress (Geena Davis), Best Supporting Actor (Michael Keaton), Best Makeup, and Best Special Effects.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Michael Keaton’s performance as Beetlejuice involved a lot of improvisation, adding to the character’s unpredictable nature.
• Tim Burton had to fight to cast Michael Keaton, as the studio initially had other actors in mind.
• The filmmakers designed the stop-motion animation and practical effects to be intentionally surreal and exaggerated.

Inspirations and References

• Original Screenplay: Written by Michael McDowell and Larry Wilson, with significant rewrites by Warren Skaaren.
• German Expressionism: Tim Burton’s visual style was heavily influenced by this film movement, evident in the movie’s gothic aesthetic.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings. However, some deleted scenes show more interaction between Beetlejuice and the Maitlands, expanding on his chaotic nature.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The movie led to novelizations and a popular animated TV series, both of which expanded on the world and characters introduced in the film.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The Dinner Party: The Deetzes and their guests are possessed by the Maitlands, who make them dance to “Day-O” by Harry Belafonte.
• Beetlejuice’s Introduction: His chaotic, over-the-top entrance sets the tone for his character.
• Lydia and Beetlejuice’s Wedding: A surreal and darkly humorous scene where Beetlejuice attempts to marry Lydia.

Iconic Quotes

• “It’s showtime!” – Beetlejuice
• “I myself am strange and unusual.” – Lydia Deetz
• “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!” – Various Characters

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Tim Burton’s Cameo: Burton makes a brief appearance as a ghost in the waiting room.
• Model Town: The miniature town created by Adam is a nod to Burton’s fascination with stop-motion animation and miniature sets.

Trivia

• The film’s title character only appears on screen for about 17.5 minutes.
• Michael Keaton based his performance on the character Chop Top from “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2.”
• The studio initially wanted Sammy Davis Jr. for the role of Beetlejuice.

Why Watch?

“Beetlejuice” is a timeless classic that combines horror and comedy in a unique and entertaining way. Tim Burton’s distinctive style, Michael Keaton’s unforgettable performance, and the film’s quirky humor make it a must-watch.

Director’s Other Movies

• Edward Scissorhands (1990)
• Batman (1989)
• The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
• Ed Wood (1994)
• Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Recommended Films for Fans

• The Addams Family (1991)
• Ghostbusters (1984)
• Hocus Pocus (1993)
• Corpse Bride (2005)
• The Frighteners (1996)