“Beetlejuice,” directed by Tim Burton and released in 1988, is a cinematic masterpiece that has captivated generations with its unique blend of black humor, fantasy, and gothic elements. This iconic film not only won over audiences with its engaging plot and peculiar characters but also is filled with fascinating tidbits that unveil the behind-the-scenes of its production and the intriguing details that brought the world of the dead to life.
Delving into the backstage of this cinema classic, we are led to explore the quirks that permeate its creation, from innovative animation techniques to casting choices that shaped the unforgettable characters inhabiting the ghostly town of Winter River. Get ready to embark on a journey through the shadowy corridors of the Maitland Mansion and uncover the secrets behind the magic of “Beetlejuice.”
1 – MICHAEL KEATON ALMOST DIDN’T PORTRAY BEETLEJUICE
Initially, Michael Keaton hesitated to take on the role of Beetlejuice. When faced with the script, the actor was uncertain about whether to accept it or not. In Hollywood, Keaton was known to be selective about the roles he accepted, both in terms of script and acting material.
However, Tim Burton managed to persuade him to take on the role.
In several subsequent interviews, Keaton stated that “Beetlejuice” was one of the most enjoyable cinematic experiences of his career and ended up becoming one of his favorites in his filmography.
2 – CASTING THE FILM
Just as Keaton was on the verge of not participating in “Beetlejuice,” several actors who were prominent at the time, or who were favorites of Tim Burton, almost joined the film’s cast. Initially, one of the options considered to play the bio-exorcist and title character was Sammy Davis Jr., a renowned American singer and actor. Despite Burton’s admiration for Davis, a producer named David Geffen suggested Michael Keaton, and his idea won over the director.
Other names were considered for different roles. Juliette Lewis auditioned for the role of Lydia. Before her, actresses Molly Ringwald, Diane Lane, Sarah Jessica Parker, Brooke Shields, and Jennifer Connelly turned down the invitation to participate in the production.
Kirstie Alley was considered for the role of Barbara, but at the time, contractual commitments with the series Cheers prevented her from joining the film. Later, Geena Davis was invited and, after meeting with Tim Burton, she promptly signed the contract.
For the role of Delia, the first choice was actress Anjelica Huston, who was even cast but ended up leaving the project for health reasons. When the role was offered to Catherine O’Hara, she initially declined, but after meeting with Burton — similar to Keaton — she ended up accepting the role. This decision led to a meeting with Bo Welch, the film’s production designer, whom O’Hara married in 1992.
3 – MULTIPLE AWARDS
In addition to being a major box office success, “Beetlejuice” also received recognition at various awards ceremonies. Initially, at the Oscars, the film secured the award for Best Makeup for the team composed of Ve Neill, Steve La Porte, and Robert Short. At the British Academy Film Awards, the team also received nominations in the categories of Best Makeup and Best Special Effects.
At the Saturn Awards, the film won awards for Best Horror Film, Best Makeup, and Best Supporting Actress (Sylvia Sidney as Juno), and it was also nominated in other important categories such as Best Director, Best Original Score, Best Special Effects, Best Supporting Actor (Michael Keaton), and Best Screenplay.
4 – AN ANIMATED SERIES
“It’s showtime” for “Beetlejuice” didn’t take long to attract a dedicated fan base. The success was so instantaneous that the film soon gave rise to an animated series.
The animation debuted as early as 1989, just a year after the film’s release. Airing on ABC and Fox channels between 1989 and 1991, the series ran for four seasons. Throughout the episodes, the plot focused on the adventures of Beetlejuice and Lydia, now inseparable friends, exploring both the Neitherworld and the world of the living.
5 – BROADWAY MUSICAL
The musical “Beetlejuice” premiered in 2018 in Washington, and the following year, it was already on Broadway. During its run, the show was honored with numerous awards, including Outstanding Set Design in both the Outer Critics Circle Awards and the Drama Desk Award ceremonies. Additionally, it received the award for Outstanding Production of a Broadway or Off-Broadway Musical at the Drama League Awards, and it also garnered recognition for Best Debut Performance on the New York City Stage at the Theatre World Awards.
6 – THE FILM WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE HORROR-ORIENTED
Initially, Tim Burton intended to make the film darker and scarier, but Warner Bros. opted for a more comedy-oriented approach. However, Burton managed to find a balance between horror and comedy elements, resulting in the final product.
7 – THE MAIN CHARACTERS
The characterization of Beetlejuice required approximately three hours to complete on Michael Keaton’s face, in addition to the discomfort of wearing contact lenses that impaired his vision.
Winona Ryder, who portrayed the role of Lydia Deetz, was cast for the role at the age of 16, although she falsified her age during the casting audition, as she was actually only 14 years old at the time.
In summary, “Beetlejuice” remains a unique and timeless masterpiece that continues to enchant audiences of all ages around the world. With its imaginative plot, memorable characters, and a skillful blend of dark humor and gothic elements, Tim Burton’s film remains a landmark in the cinematic universe. The behind-the-scenes trivia only adds fascinating layers to this experience, revealing the challenges faced and the creative decisions that brought the story of the Maitlands and the eccentric bio-exorcist, Beetlejuice, to life. As we delve into the quirks surrounding the production of this cult classic, we are reminded not only of Burton’s brilliance as a filmmaker but also of the eternal magic that permeates the world of the living and the dead in “Beetlejuice.”