One of my favourite films by Tim Burton, Beetlejuice is a dark, but highly comic little gem with a fantastic little story at its heart complete with a cast of superb performers.
The film follows a newly wedded couple, played by Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin who, shortly after moving into their ideal home, are killed in a freak accident. Initially unaware they’ve passed over, the newlyweds are shocked and appalled when a new family, played by Jeffrey Jones, Catherine O’Hara and a young Winona Ryder turn up and make the house their own.
What comes next is a conflict of interest with the recently deceased newly weds bringing in the mischief making Beetlejuice, played brilliantly by Michael Keaton, causing chaos for all concerned.
This is one of Burton’s finest in my opinion; a strong, self contained story that manages to capture a freakish horror movie feel, but with a warmth in the domestic goings on of the characters, capped off with a healthy dose of humour by the likes of Keaton and the utterly fantastic O’Hara. There are numerous top notch performances throughout this film, with nobody in particular proving a weak link. Everybody works well together, and we’re left with a tight, intimate, highly entertaining movie.
Visually the film is stunning; it’s completely original and fresh to look at and while it might date a little with its jittery stop motion moments, its individuality grants it a lasting quality. All of the characters are colourful and unique which only helps establish them and heighten conflict, and the freakish characters of the afterlife are both hysterical and horrifying at the same time.
Danny Elfman brings us a brilliant score which once again mixes the playfulness and the horrific elements at work behind this film which only makes the film even more seamless.
A highly recommended film that should appeal to all ages. It’s a little garish for younger audience members, but should prove to be a family hit for years to come.

Rating: 8