Beetlejuice: Still Got That Goth Vibe, 35 Years Later!

Okay, so I rewatched Beetlejuice last night (for probably the 50th time, NGL) and I still think it's SO good. Like, it's not just nostalgia goggles, right? The cinematography is actually brilliant. The way Tim Burton uses bright, almost garish colors in the Deetz family's design choices contrasted with the muted, earthy tones of the Maitlands' house… it's such a visual representation of their clashing values and how out-of-place the Deetzes are in quiet, rustic New England. And the camera angles! So many Dutch angles adding to the overall sense of unease and warped reality, especially when Beetlejuice is on screen. Speaking of Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton is a freakin' legend BTW), the makeup and prosthetics are insane. It's so over-the-top, but it works. The entire dinner party scene is a visual feast, and that "Day-O" sequence is just chef's kiss. I also love how the afterlife is portrayed—so bureaucratic and hilariously mundane. The waiting room scene with the receptionist? Comedy GOLD. I feel like it really captures the absurdity of life and death, if that makes sense. I think what really makes this movie stand the test of time is that it's genuinely funny and actually kinda touching when you ignore the demonic exorcist, LOL. Adam and Barbara's desperation to save their home and Lydia's struggle to connect with her parents... it's surprisingly relatable, even though, you know, they're GHOSTS. Winona Ryder was incredible and really portrayed the disaffected teen in a world that just looked like it didn't understand her. I know some people find the ending a little… weird? (Beetlejuice pulling a number on the witch doctor in the afterlife is pretty out there lol) but it doesn't bother me. It's just such a fun, imaginative movie, it's easy to look past the minor flaws. Seriously, if you haven't seen it, or haven't seen it in a while, give it a watch. You won't regret it, or your money back! (Just kidding... unless?)