Fans of the cult classic “Beetlejuice” can rejoice as the much-anticipated sequel, “Beetlejuice 2”, edges closer to completion. Director Tim Burton recently revealed that the film was on the verge of wrapping up production, with just a day and a half of filming remaining when the SAG-AFTRA strike brought things to a sudden halt.
This eagerly awaited follow-up to the beloved 1988 classic commenced filming in London in May, drawing a flurry of excitement from fans worldwide. However, the production faced an unexpected roadblock in the form of the SAG-AFTRA strike, which began on July 14, temporarily halting proceedings.
In a recent interview with The Independent, Tim Burton expressed gratitude for what they had accomplished so far, noting that the number of remaining scenes amounted to a mere one per cent of the film. “Literally, it was a day and a half. We know what we have to do. It is 99 per cent done,” he explained.
Burton, known for his distinctive and imaginative filmmaking style, shared that directing the sequel was a truly enjoyable experience. It allowed him to return to the essence of why he fell in love with making movies in the first place.
“Beetlejuice 2” sees the return of iconic actor Michael Keaton in the titular role, joined by fellow returning cast members Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara. Additionally, new faces have been introduced to the franchise, including Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci, and Justin Theroux.
Watch the official trailer to Beetlejuice 2 here:
The film’s emphasis on practical effects and a hands-on approach to filmmaking harks back to the spirit of the original “Beetlejuice”. Keaton enthusiastically shared that the sequel was a joyful and creatively fulfilling experience. Burton’s commitment to maintaining the same handmade, improvisational, and inventive approach that characterised the first film resonated with the cast and crew.
For Tim Burton, “Beetlejuice 2” represents a significant return to the director’s chair for a feature film since 2019’s “Dumbo”. He has since distanced himself from Disney, citing the experience of making a tentpole film with the studio as a turning point in his career.
Warner Bros. has set a release date for “Beetlejuice 2” on September 6, 2024, offering fans a chance to revisit the delightfully quirky world of Beetlejuice and his otherworldly antics. As the final touches are put in place and the film inches closer to completion, anticipation continues to mount among devoted fans eagerly awaiting the return of the ghost with the most.
