Beetlejuice Sequel Scares Up $110M in Stellar Box Office Return
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has made a triumphant arrival to the big screen, raking in an impressive $110 million at the U.S. box office during its opening weekend. This marks the second-largest September debut ever, trailing only behind 2017's It. Despite a solid domestic performance, the film earned $35 million internationally, bringing its global total to $145.4 million.
Directed by Tim Burton, the long-awaited sequel features Michael Keaton reprising his role as the mischievous ghoul, Beetlejuice, alongside returning stars Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara. Newcomers to the franchise include Jenna Ortega, who plays Astrid, the rebellious daughter of Ryder's Lydia Deetz, and Willem Dafoe.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice gets mixed reviews despite being U.S. box office hit
The film has garnered mixed reviews from critics. The New York Times praised it as “fun but less edgy,” while The Guardian highlighted Burton’s nostalgia-heavy approach, noting that while the film may not match the original's cult appeal, it “has a lot of fun trying.” The NME was more generous, giving it four stars and praising Ortega’s portrayal of Astrid for “reanimating” the undead classic.
The movie’s strong start can be attributed to its appeal across age groups, particularly drawing younger audiences, thanks to Ortega's star power from her role in Wednesday. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice even became a dress-up event for fans, a testament to the lasting popularity of Burton’s gothic universe.
Despite its domestic success, the film is facing a more gradual climb internationally, with hopes that it will gain traction in major markets like France, Germany, and Japan, where it has yet to open. The U.K. leads international earnings with $9.6 million, followed by Mexico at $6.5 million.
Overall, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is poised to be a solid performer in Burton’s portfolio, though only time will tell if it can maintain its momentum and become a global hit like its predecessor. Fans and critics alike seem united on one front: Keaton’s Beetlejuice is as maniacal and charming as ever.
