Jenna Ortega spilled some exciting details about the highly anticipated Beetlejuice 2 on the red carpet at the recent Emmy Awards. The “rising “Wednesday” star, who plays Lydia’s daughter Astrid, talked up the sequel’s dedication to practical effects over CGI.
“Visually so exciting,” Ortega said. “Everything was practical – we’re not using very much CGI. It was really satisfying shooting on set.” Her comments hint at a return to the physical filmmaking that made Tim Burton’s original such a cult classic.
Fans will recall the extensive use of makeup, props and claymation that brought the bizarre world of Beetlejuice to life back in 1988. By avoiding CGI, it seems the sequel will preserve the practical aesthetic that is now synonymous with Burton’s unique style.
Michael Keaton is back as the infamous Ghost With The Most, alongside Winona Ryder returning as Lydia. Recent behind-the-scenes footage that briefly showed Keaton back in ghostly makeup caused a stir amongst fans.
“It’s the most fun you can have,” Keaton told Empire. He emphasized the improvisational, handmade approach of the production that echoes the energy of the original.
Also returning is Catherine O’Hara as Delia Deetz, while new cast members include Monica Bellucci as Betelgeuse’s wife and Willem Dafoe as an afterlife cop.
Excitement for the sequel, due September 6 is definitely building. By reviving the practical magic of the first film, Beetlejuice 2 promises to capture that Burton-esque charm that made the original so special.
