Warner Bros. has released a viral marketing video to promote the upcoming sequel “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” The video parodies the format of the First We Feast series “Hot Ones” and features Michael Keaton reprising his role as the mischievous bio-exorcist Beetlejuice. In the clip, Keaton attempts to interview Beetlejuice while he eats spicy chicken wings. Beetlejuice gives flippant answers to Keaton’s questions and displays his irreverent humor.
The sauces featured in the video have labels displaying images of cast members from the sequel, including Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega. As a nod to his supernatural origins, the typical Scoville heat scale is replaced with a “Skullville” meter. When asked about his inspirations, Beetlejuice casually mentions historical figures and pop stars. His antics escalate until he breathes fire in a dramatic fart, causing Keaton to leave in exasperation.
The video highlights Keaton’s ability to seamlessly reprise his iconic role from the 1988 Tim Burton film after so many years. Ortega, who plays the new character Astrid, said working with Keaton was incredible to see as he transformed back into the strange Betelgeuse. “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” will debut at the Venice Film Festival on September 7 before its theatrical release on September 13.
The sequel continues the story of Lydia, still dealing with the ghostly Beetlejuice, as her daughter Astrid discovers a portal to the afterlife. Director Tim Burton aims to capture the same creative vision that made the original so beloved. With its blend of nostalgia and new characters, along with Keaton and Ryder’s return, hype is growing as the blockbuster season ends. Audiences will watch closely to see if the sequel can match or surpass the 82% Rotten Tomatoes score of its predecessor. “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” looks to make a major impression when it arrives in theaters next month through clever promotion and fan-favorite elements from the classic film.
