The highly anticipated sequel to the 1988 cult classic “Beetlejuice” is set to debut at this year’s Venice Film Festival, marking its premiere on August 28.
Directed by Tim Burton, who helmed the original, the film features returning stars Michael Keaton as the mischievous Betelgeuse, Winona Ryder reprising her role as Lydia Deetz, and Catherine O’Hara as Delia Deetz.
Joining them are newcomers Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Jenna Ortega, and Willem Dafoe.Burton expressed his excitement for the premiere, emphasizing the significance of unveiling the film at such a prestigious event.
Venice Film Festival director Alberto Barbera praised the sequel for its imaginative storytelling and surreal pace, highlighting its unique creative vision.
The storyline revolves around Lydia Deetz, now dealing with a new family tragedy, returning to her childhood home in Winter River with three generations of the Deetz family.
When Lydia’s rebellious daughter Astrid discovers a mysterious model of the town that opens a portal to the afterlife, chaos ensues in both realms. As events escalate, the mischievous Betelgeuse reappears, ready to wreak havoc once his name is summoned three times.
The original film, blending horror and comedy, followed a deceased couple attempting to scare off the new inhabitants of their old home with the help of the eccentric Betelgeuse.
While stars Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin will not return, the sequel promises to captivate audiences with its nostalgic charm and fresh narrative twists.
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” will premiere out of competition at the Venice Film Festival before opening in UK cinemas on September 6, continuing the legacy of a franchise that has spanned TV adaptations, video games, and a successful stage musical adaptation in 2018.
