Beetle Juice 2024: Sequel, Cast, and Scary Rating Facts

It’s the kind of question that pops up at a Halloween party or a family movie night, usually right after someone mentions the latest Tim Burton romp: is the new Beetlejuice movie actually good, and what’s the deal with that “beetle juice” stuff I keep hearing about? You’ve probably seen the trailers for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the 2024 sequel that brings back the Ghost with the Most, and you might have also stumbled across warnings about a chemical with the same name. This guide connects those two very different worlds—the pop-culture spectacle and the toxic substance—to give you a complete picture before you hit play or search for answers.

The sequel, which hit theaters on September 6, 2024, isn’t just a nostalgia trip; it’s a box office behemoth that pulled in over $451 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. The film’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of Tim Burton’s gothic imagination and the cast’s return to their iconic roles.

This guide is designed to be your one-stop resource. We’ll cover the film’s plot, its critical reception, whether it’s appropriate for younger viewers, and we’ll also clear up the dangerous confusion with cantharidin, the real-world “beetle juice” chemical. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of both the movie and the molecule, so you can make informed decisions at the theater and in your searches.

What Is the 2024 Sequel Really About?

The new film, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, is a direct sequel to the 1988 classic, not a reboot. Set after the events of the first film, the plot follows the Deetz family as they return to Winter River after a family tragedy. Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is now the host of a supernatural TV show, and her teenage daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), is the new focus of the story. The film’s plot details, as listed on IMDb, involve a family reunion that goes horribly wrong when the mischievous ghost beetlejuice is inadvertently released.

A significant part of the film’s appeal is its reverence for the original. Tim Burton returns to direct, and the script aims to capture the spirit of the 1988 film while introducing new characters and expanding the lore of the “Neitherworld.” The story is a blend of comedy, horror, and family drama, centered on three generations of Deetz women and their complicated relationship with the ghost with the most. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the film has been a critical and commercial success, solidifying its place in pop culture by appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation.

The contrast between the original film and its sequel is stark, from the technology used to create the magic to the cultural context in which both films were released. The 1988 original was a groundbreaking piece of practical-effects filmmaking, while the 2024 sequel utilizes a mix of practical and digital effects to create a world that feels both familiar and fresh. This blend of old and new is a big part of why the film works so well, allowing it to appeal to nostalgic Gen Xers and Gen Z newcomers simultaneously.

Box Office Phenomenon

Is Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Good?

The consensus from critics and audiences alike is a resounding “yes.” The film holds a Certified Fresh score of 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating that the majority of professional critics recommend it. But numbers only tell part of the story. The film works because it captures the manic energy of the original. Michael Keaton slips back into the role of Beetlejuice with ease, delivering a performance that is both nostalgic and refreshingly energetic. Winona Ryder reprises her role as Lydia Deetz, providing the emotional anchor for the story.

Critics have praised the film’s practical effects, which harken back to the original’s handmade charm, while also noting the clever writing that balances humor with genuine moments of heart. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the film has been praised as a worthy sequel that justifies its existence. However, some critics noted that the film’s plot is a bit crowded, with too many subplots vying for screen time. There was also some criticism that the film spends too much time on set-ups for potential spin-offs, but these are minor complaints in an otherwise enjoyable experience.

The film’s success is not just a critical one; it’s also a commercial one. As of late 2024, it stands as one of the highest-grossing films of the year, surpassing many big-budget tentpoles. This success is a clear sign that audiences are hungry for original, director-driven films that offer a unique vision, rather than just the latest superhero or franchise installment. The film’s box office performance, as detailed by The Numbers, solidifies Beetlejuice Beetlejuice as a major win for Warner Bros. and a testament to the enduring appeal of Tim Burton’s gothic sensibilities.

How Scary Is It, and Is It OK for a 9-Year-Old?

This is the question on many parents’ minds. The shift in rating from PG to PG-13 is significant. The original was rated PG and was considered a bit edgy for its time. The sequel, rated PG-13 for “violent content, macabre humor, and some language,” takes things a step further. While it’s not as intense as an R-rated horror film, it is a PG-13 movie for a reason. The film includes scenes with jump scares, grotesque imagery (like skeletons coming to life), and death threats against the characters.

So, is it OK for a 9-year-old? It depends on the child. A 9-year-old who is easily scared might find the film too intense. The “soul-sucking” scenes and the overall macabre tone of the “Neitherworld” might be nightmares fuel. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the film’s parent guide notes that it is “Certified Fresh” and a “PG-13 rating,” but it does not provide a specific parenting guide that breaks down the intensity for children.

On the other hand, a 9-year-old who is familiar with the original or enjoys spooky content might handle it well. The film is fundamentally a comedy, and the horror elements are played for laughs. The “scary” parts are often mitigated by a quick joke or a sudden cutaway. The Rotten Tomatoes score of 77% is an aggregate critic rating, not a measure of child appropriateness. If your child has a low tolerance for suspense or dark themes, you might want to watch the film first before bringing them along. For context, you can read the audience reviews on the film’s Rotten Tomatoes page.

What About the Casting Rumors?

Now, let’s tackle the internet rumors that have clouded this film’s release. One of the most persistent rumors involved Johnny Depp appearing in the film, and the movie being his big comeback. This is completely false. The film’s full cast list on IMDb does not include Johnny Depp. The stars are Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice, Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz, Catherine O’Hara as Delia Deetz, Jenna Ortega as Astrid Deetz, Willem Dafoe as Jackson, and Monica Bellucci as Delores.

Another common question is about Michael Keaton’s salary. While the exact figures weren’t publicized, he reportedly earned a substantial sum, but the real point is that he is the star and the movie couldn’t have been made without him. The film’s success is a testament to the draw of the original cast and the skill of the new additions.

Finally, there is the medical name confusion. Many searches for “beetle juice” are actually about cantharidin, a toxic substance found in blister beetles. This is a different thing altogether, and we explore the serious side of this confusion in the next section. So, to summarize: no, Johnny Depp is not in the movie, and the only “medicine” associated with the film is fictional. It’s crucial to separate the pop-culture phenomenon from the chemical compound, and to rely on verified credits from sources like IMDb.

The Other “Beetle Juice”: Cantharidin

Now, for a brief but essential detour into the real “beetle juice.” Cantharidin is a compound that warrants respect, not because of any film lore, but because of its toxic nature. It is a chemical derived from blister beetles, and any search for “beetle juice” regarding a medical treatment should be redirected to professional medical advice, not the movie. The American Chemical Society notes that it has topical medical uses, but it is also a dangerous poison.

According to the NOAA CAMEO Chemicals database, cantharidin is acutely toxic by ingestion, a skin irritant, and a respiratory irritant. In fact, it’s the same compound that causes the painful blisters when crushed beetles come into contact with human skin. While it is sometimes used to remove warts, it’s a highly concentrated poison that you should never handle. The database lists it as a hazardous chemical, and the hazard is real.

The presence of cantharidin in the same search results as the film is a coincidence of language that can lead to dangerous misinformation. If someone is looking for a treatment for skin conditions, they might mistakenly apply a chemical to their skin when they are watching a movie, but this is a critical error. It’s a reminder of why context is crucial when searching for health information online. The 2024 film’s release has caused a spike in searches for “beetle juice,” which has unfortunately mixed the film’s lore with this real-world chemical hazard.

What Is the Beetlejuice Musical About?

The popularity of the film franchise also led to a Broadway musical adaptation. The Beetlejuice musical, which premiered in 2018, is a different beast from the films, but it’s a fantastic jumping-off point for those who want more of the story. The musical is a wacky, high-energy show that follows a deceased couple who hire Beetlejuice to help them scare away the new family that moves into their home. It’s set to a score that blends high-octane rock with emotional ballads, and the production is renowned for its inventive staging, wild costumes, and innovative puppetry.

The musical is written by a different creative team from the film, and it’s not a direct adaptation of the 1988 movie. Instead, it’s a re-imagining that expands on the universe, focusing on the relationship between Beetlejuice and the character Lydia. It was nominated for numerous Tony Awards, and while the show closed on Broadway in 2023, it continues to be a popular choice for regional and high school theater productions. For a deep dive into the all-ages hijinks of the musical, check our guide to the Best Family-Theater Moments from the Beetlejuice Musical.

Related reading: Eugene Levy: Biography, Ethnicity, Family, and More · Neil Gaiman: What Happened, Sandman Canceled, Will He Work Again

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Johnny Depp Not in the Cast?

Johnny Depp is not listed in the cast list of the film, according to IMDb. Rumors circulated online that the actor was set to join the film, but these rumors have no basis in fact. The cast is led by Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, and Monica Bellucci. Anne Hathaway also appears in an undisclosed role, as confirmed by the IMDb full credits page. The film is unambiguously a Tim Burton production, and the focus remains on the core cast of the original film.

The Bottom Line and Details

Given the sequel’s success, it’s natural to wonder about a potential third installment. The film’s worldwide gross of over $451 million, as listed on Box Office Mojo, certainly makes a third film more likely than not, but it’s not officially confirmed. The film’s ending leaves the door open for a sequel, but it also works as a definitive end to this chapter of the story. The creative team has been cautious. Tim Burton has stated he only returns to stories if they feel right. The sequel feels like a complete story, but it ends with enough threads for a follow-up.

For those who want to explore the film’s world further, there is a wealth of information available online. For a comprehensive overview of the film’s production, check out the coverage from ABC News. For a deep dive into the cast and characters, the IMDb full credits page provides an extensive list.