It’s been nearly 30 years since Tim Burton and Michael Keaton came together to create the magic that is Beetlejuice. Despite all of the time that has passed, this cult classic is still capturing our imaginations. The 1988 film helped thrust Burton into the spotlight as a premiere director even though it was only his second feature film, following 1985’s Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure. With whispers and talks about a potential sequel to Beetlejuice, here are 9 things you never knew about the original.
1. Burton initially wanted Sammy Davis Jr. to play Beetlejuice.
In the initial script, Beetlejuice was supposed to be a laidback lounge singer, so Davis Jr. would have been an ideal fit. When the script changed, producer David Geffen suggested Michael Keaton for the role.
2. Geena Davis and Michael Keaton were obsessed with the film immediately.
Both stars signed on to do the film after meeting with Burton just one time.
3. The original title for the film was Scared Sheetless.
Quite risque for the ’80s don’t you think? Burton actually suggested the name as a joke after Warner Bros. executives turned their noses up at the name Beetlejuice. The name House Ghosts was also considered.
4. Despite being the title character, Beetlejuice is barely in the film.
Though the film has a runtime of 92 mins, Beetlejuice is only in 17.5 mins of it!
5. The film spawned an animated series.
The series was so popular that it aired on both FOX and ABC for two seasons.
6. Beetlejuice was named after a star in the sky.
His name comes from Betelgeuse, a star in the constellation Orion.
7. You can snag your own Handbook For the Recently Deceased.
Just head over to Etsy.
8. The movie got a happier ending because audiences adored Keaton’s portrayal of Beetlejuice so much.
Originally, the film ended with Beetlejuice stuck in the Maitlands’ model town and plagued by sandworms.
9. We may get a Beetlejuice sequel… maybe.
Collider spoke with both Winona Ryder and Tim Burton, so it’s possible….perhaps.
