Beetlejuice (1988)

 

Genre: Fantasy/ Comedy

Time: 1h 32mins

Director: Tim Burton

Quick Summary: When the deceased couple Adam and Barbara are unsuccessful in scaring away a family that has moved into their old home, they seek the help of bio-exorcist Betelgeuse.

Overly Charming and witty, this is a classic that I really love. I feel like this film will never feel outdated, or "of its time". 

Of course, Micheal Keaton steals every scene with no ounce of shame, and I love it. He is so fascinating and entertaining to watch, his slapstick comedy is pretty much perfect. Every time you see him, he's frantic and slamming you with one-liners. Even in the background of scenes, he is always doing something funny. He was a perfect fit for Beetlejuice.

The soundtrack done by Danny Elfman was also the perfect fit. He knows how to make the most fun soundtracks and this film really needed that. Each song fits perfectly, from spooky little jingles to upbeat tunes that make you want to dance around a table in sync with your friends. 

The rest of the cast was wonderful, Wynona Ryder perfectly playing a moody gothic teenager, Catherine O'Hara being also a very strong performer. I did like the contrast of  Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis being so laid back and chill about all the weirdness that happens in this film. It created a nice balance next to all of the extremely over-the-top characters. They have a very sweet chemistry between them, and honestly, I would believe they were married in real life. 

All the set pieces were so unique and colourful, trademarked Tim Burton that you could see from a mile away. It's full to the brim with spooky imagery and a gothic aesthetic that manages to be full of colour and still work really well. As well as this the script is just so funny. Each line is suited to each character so different types of humour are shown throughout this.

Really there isn't too much of a plot, but honestly, I don't think this needed one that was super in-depth. Full of gags, dark humour, and overall a look of fun. It's entertaining to watch throughout the whole thing, and it leaves you wanting more. The pacing is very frantic and pinballs from scenario to scenario, but again it works for this campy spooky comedy. 

 A very silly film I 100% recommend. 

8/10 

"Barb, Honey... We're Dead. I Don't Think We Have Much To Worry About Anymore."

“Don't Mind Her. She's Still Upset That Somebody Dropped A House On Her Sister."

"These aren't my rules. Come to think of it, I don't have any rules."