1. The Original Script Was Much Darker
Did you know that “Beetlejuice” was initially a horror movie? The original script had Beetlejuice as a winged demon and Lydia’s family meeting a gruesome fate. Thankfully, Tim Burton lightened it up, turning it into the quirky film we love.
2. Michael Keaton Had a Lot of Creative Freedom
Michael Keaton, who played Beetlejuice, improvised many of his lines. He even came up with the character’s wild look, including the moldy makeup and crazy hair!
3. Winona Ryder Wasn’t the First Choice for Lydia
It’s hard to imagine anyone but Winona Ryder as Lydia, but other actresses, like Alyssa Milano and Jennifer Connelly, were considered first. Luckily, Winona nailed her audition and got the part.
4. The Movie Almost Had Another Name
“Beetlejuice” could have been called “House Ghosts” or “Scared Sheetless.” Can you believe it? We’re glad they stuck with the iconic title we know today.
5. The Iconic Striped Suit Was a Last-Minute Addition
The black-and-white striped suit that Beetlejuice wears wasn’t in the original costume design. It was added later to give him a more striking and memorable appearance.
6. Geena Davis Wanted to Be Barbara
Geena Davis loved the script so much that she pursued the role of Barbara Maitland. She ended up being perfect for the sweet and ghostly character.
7. The Sandworms Were Stop-Motion Animation
The creepy sandworms that live in the afterlife desert were created using stop-motion animation. This technique gave them their unique, jerky movement.
8. The Afterlife Waiting Room Is Full of Easter Eggs
If you look closely at the waiting room scenes, you’ll spot lots of clever details, like a magician’s assistant still in her box and a man with a shrunken head.
9. The Special Effects Were Low-Budget
Despite its fantastical elements, “Beetlejuice” had a modest budget. The special effects team had to get creative, using practical effects and old-school techniques.
10. The Day-O Scene Was Almost Cut
One of the most memorable scenes is when the dinner guests are possessed and dance to “Day-O.” Believe it or not, this scene was almost cut from the film!
11. Catherine O’Hara And Jeffery Jones Had Instant Chemistry
Catherine O’Hara and Jeffrey Jones, who played Delia and Charles Deetz, had such great chemistry that they made their characters’ relationship feel authentic and hilarious.
12. The Miniature Town Was Real
The charming miniature town that Adam Maitland builds was an actual model created for the film. It added a whimsical touch to the movie’s setting.
13. The Soundtrack Is Legendary
Composer Danny Elfman created the iconic score for “Beetlejuice,” adding to the film’s quirky and eerie atmosphere. The music is unforgettable!
14. There Was Almost a Sequel
A sequel called “Beetlejuice Goes Hawaiian” was planned but never made. The story would have taken Beetlejuice and the Deetz family to Hawaii for more spooky adventures.
15. The Movie Became a Broadway Musical
“Beetlejuice” was adapted into a successful Broadway musical, complete with catchy songs and dazzling performances. It just goes to show how beloved this film truly is.
