Tim Burton’s highly anticipated fantasy comedy sequel, Beetlejuice 2, is encountering an aggravating setback in its release schedule. As per reports from Variety, Beetlejuice 2 stands among the slate of Warner Bros. productions set to debut in 2024 that the studio is contemplating rescheduling for the following year due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. B. Riley’s senior media analyst, Eric Wold, has expressed that if production on Beetlejuice 2 and other 2024 releases does not recommence in the next two weeks, these films are likely to be pushed into 2025 or later.
Beetlejuice 2: Anticipation and Praise
In anticipation of Beetlejuice 2, cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos has lauded the upcoming sequel as a “remarkable, heartwarming family narrative” and has also commended its use of practical effects. Keaton is set to don his famous suit from the original movie. Notably, Keaton had a recent appearance in the DC Extended Universe film, “The Flash,” portraying Batman.
The Strike’s Impact
The SAG-AFTRA strike has persisted since July 14 when the actors’ guild failed to reach a satisfactory agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), following in the footsteps of the Writers Guild of America (WGA), which had initiated their work stoppage over two months prior. While the WGA strike has since been resolved, SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP have yet to find common ground, leading to the delay of several highly anticipated 2024 blockbusters.
Nearly Completed Filming
Tim Burton recently disclosed that the movie requires less than two days of filming to wrap up once the SAG-AFTRA strike concludes. For Burton, the sequel to the 1988 original, which featured Michael Keaton as the iconic bio-exorcist, marks a long-anticipated return. The original film achieved cult status and box-office success. Keaton, after some initial hesitation, reprises his iconic role, and he is joined by Winona Ryder (Lydia Deetz) and Catherine O’Hara (Delia Deetz).
Returning Cast and Long-Awaited Sequel
Alongside the return of integral members of the original cast like Michael Keaton as the iconic bio-exorcist, Jenna Ortega, known for her role in “Wednesday,” is introduced in Beetlejuice 2 as Lydia’s daughter.
Release Date: Beetlejuice 2’s current scheduled theatrical release date in 2024.
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