Movies with Isaiah: 'Beetlejuice' is a must-see for the Halloween season

October always presents a significant shift to focusing on the dynamics of exploring cinema with horror and supernatural elements. One such film showcases a combination of horror, comedy, suspense and quirky imagery, managing to separate it from the standard formula. I have always maintained a high amount of respect for the vision of director Tim Burton.

An important trait for a visionary is a creative style that is simply their own and without fail makes them identifiable. Burton's unique cinematic style is what makes him and his films memorable and special with his own blend of visual effects, costume designs, color schematics and overall tone which are completely original and his trademark.

In 1988, a favorite film from my childhood was released, spawning a short-lived animated series, video games and a Broadway musical. Starring Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin, Michael Keaton, Catherine O'Hara and Winona Ryder, the unexpected sucess of "Beetlejuice" cemented its place into cinematic history with its fantastic acting performances, quirky and odd humor and influential set designs venturing more into the macabre of unpredictability. The story centers around married couple Adam and Barbara Maitland, the new homeowners of a home in the country who through an unfortunate accident reach their demise.

Through humorous revelations, they come to the realization that they have passed away and entered a strange realm of the afterlife. If memory serves correctly, this might be one of the first films that I remember focusing on the concept of what happens to the soul in the afterlife in an entertaining fashion. As both Adam and Barbara journey through the oddness of the afterlife, they encounter an eccentric, erratic, amusing and energetic "bio-exorcist" named Beetlejuice who offers his expertise in haunting the tenants of their home they recently departed.

Burton's unique visuals utilize elements of stop-motion animation, artistic set designs and clever special effects paying homage to the classic forms of cinema from the 1940s and 1950s. Memories of reciting lines with friends and watching "Beetlejuice" on repeat made it a fond childhood experience that I will cherish forever.

As the film progresses, the hauntings catch the attention of the new inhabitants, who begin questioning the circumstances. Ryder portrays the gothic teenage daughter of the recent new homeowners. She experiences the ability of channeling communication with the deceased characters of Adam and Barbara, sharing their encounters with Beetlejuice.

Performances from this classic are the definition of actors and actresses displaying an obvious chemistry with one another by embracing the absurdity of the initial concept. Keaton's energetic charisma as the "bio-exorcist" Beetlejuice is a performance by today's standards that could primarily be viewed as a sinister portrayal of a vengeful spirit desperate to bring havoc on unsuspecting inhabitants. However, he has the ability of being completely humorous, charming and over the top to the point of becoming a harmless, likeable entity. Each scene that Burton crafted has found its way into cinematic history and popular culture history. There is a particular magic and charm to this film.

As I mentioned, Burton's directorial vision and writing separates him from other directors, as it has become impossible to define him into one specific genre. He has branched out into different forms of entertainment so that pigeonholing would be an insult to his talent. The success of "Beetlejuice" spawned a short-lived animated series that I religiously watched and of which I own the complete series. A sequel is expected in 2024, which I must admit I am unsure of. "Beetlejuice" is one of those stories that does not need a sequel. Its unique presentation is what makes it a memorable experience. However, if anyone can make the concept work, it's Burton.

"Beetlejuice" features the most outstanding quirky images, exciting and fun performances and electric dialogue so that no matter what, it will always land without feeling dated. Even by 2023's standards, the film still holds up with remarkable ease.

Flashback Cinema at Beacon Theatres will feature "Beetlejuice"' on Oct. 22 and 25 in continuing with the Halloween theme for October. It is a classic 10/10 treat from beginning to end and highly recommended.

To watch Isaiah Ridley's movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.