Beetlejuice (1988) became one of Tim Burton’s most iconic films, deeply embedded in our collective imagination. When Beetlejuice Beetlejuice—the sequel to the original film—was released, expectations were high and ultimately fulfilled. Alongside The Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride, the 1988 film stands as one of the three pillars of Burton’s filmography, reaching beyond fans of the director to inspire countless creatives. It’s worth noting that the character’s adventures also continued in an animated series. What better time than Halloween to celebrate this film and its outlandish character, who has inspired so many?
The Beetlejuice We Know
Portrayed by Michael Keaton in 1988 and in the sequel, Beetlejuice is a “bio-exorcist spirit” summoned by a ghostly couple to help rid their home of an unwanted living family. With his grotesque appearance, black-and-white striped suit, and rebellious energy, Beetlejuice embodies Burton’s signature macabre humor, becoming a pop icon thanks to his unpredictability and subversive charm.
The Impact on Pop Culture
Beetlejuice has left a lasting mark on pop culture with its unique visual style and its eccentric blend of horror and comedy. This iconic character has inspired fashion trends, memes, and Halloween costumes, boosting the popularity of a gothic, surreal aesthetic seen in many Burton works. Beetlejuice has become a symbol for those who embrace the bizarre and the original, normalizing a “macabre yet captivating” style visible in animated series, stage musicals, and other works that celebrate the unusual.
On our Instagram profile, you’ll also find a reel featuring work from creatives inspired by Beetlejuice.
