Do You Need to Watch Beetlejuice Before Beetlejuice 2? Here’s Why You Should

With the much-anticipated release of Beetlejuice 2 just around the corner, fans of the original are buzzing with excitement. If you’re a lover of horror comedies, this sequel is practically tailor-made for you. But with 36 years separating the original Beetlejuice from its sequel, you might be wondering: Do you need to watch the first movie to fully enjoy and understand Beetlejuice 2? Let’s dive into why watching the original is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it’s essential.

Why Watching the Original Beetlejuice is Crucial

You might think that a movie released over three decades ago wouldn’t have much bearing on a modern sequel, but Beetlejuice is an exception. The original film isn’t just a backdrop for the new movie; it’s the foundation. Here’s why catching up on the original Beetlejuice is important before you walk into the theater for Beetlejuice 2.

Understanding the Ghost House and the Miniature Model

One of the most iconic elements of Beetlejuice is the haunted house, with its quirky ghostly inhabitants. The house isn’t just a setting; it’s a character in its own right, complete with a miniature model of the town in its attic. This model plays a significant role in the original film and understanding its influence is key to grasping the dynamics in Beetlejuice 2.

In the original, the model isn’t just a prop—it’s a portal. The miniature town serves as a conduit between the living and the dead, where Beetlejuice himself can manipulate the physical world. Missing this context could leave you puzzled by its reappearance in the sequel.

Reconnecting with Reappearing Characters

Beetlejuice 2 brings back some beloved characters, with Winona Ryder reprising her role as Lydia Deetz and Catherine O’Hara returning as her eccentric mother, Delia. The depth of these characters and their relationships is something that the sequel builds on, making prior knowledge essential.

Lydia’s journey in the first film—from a gloomy, death-obsessed teenager to someone who finds her place between the living and the dead—is central to her character’s arc. Without seeing her evolution in the original film, her actions and motivations in Beetlejuice 2 might not resonate as deeply.

The Importance of Understanding Beetlejuice Himself

Let’s not forget the main man—or rather, the main ghost—himself: Beetlejuice, portrayed by Michael Keaton. This mischievous, chaotic spirit is the heart of the franchise, and understanding his character is crucial for enjoying the sequel.

In the original movie, Beetlejuice is a “bio-exorcist” who offers his services to the recently deceased. His antics are wild, unpredictable, and often dangerous, culminating in a plan to marry Lydia in order to escape the afterlife. This character’s backstory, motivations, and the outcome of his schemes form the backbone of his role in the sequel.

By the end of the original Beetlejuice, he’s sent back to the afterlife after his plan to wed Lydia fails spectacularly. Knowing this history is essential for appreciating his return in Beetlejuice 2—without it, you might miss out on the nuances of his character and the continuity of the story.

The Afterlife Explained—Or Not

Another key element of the original Beetlejuice is its unique portrayal of the afterlife. It’s not your typical depiction of what happens after death. Instead, it’s a bureaucratic nightmare filled with humor and oddities that only Tim Burton could envision.

Understanding this version of the afterlife is crucial because Beetlejuice 2 is unlikely to spend much time rehashing it. The sequel will probably assume that viewers are already familiar with the concept, meaning you’ll need that prior knowledge to fully grasp the setting and the stakes.

Should You Watch Beetlejuice Before Beetlejuice 2? Absolutely.

If you’re planning on watching Beetlejuice 2 when it hits theaters on September 6, 2024, watching the original Beetlejuice beforehand is more than just a good idea—it’s practically a necessity. The first film lays the groundwork for the sequel’s plot, characters, and unique world-building. Without it, you’ll miss out on the layers of storytelling and character development that make the sequel a true continuation of the original.

So, make it a movie night and revisit the original Beetlejuice. Not only will it prepare you for the sequel, but it’ll also remind you why this quirky, spooky comedy became a classic in the first place.

Stay Tuned for More Updates

As the release date of Beetlejuice 2 draws closer, we’ll keep you updated with all the latest news and reviews. Until then, dust off your copy of the original, settle in for a wild ride, and get ready to say his name three times once again—Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!