The long-awaited sequel to the iconic Beetlejuice movie, directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, has exceeded expectations by raking in an impressive $12 million in both Wednesday and Thursday night previews. This figure is a promising start for the film, setting the stage for a successful box office run.
While it may not be entirely fair to compare preview numbers across different films due to varying release strategies, Beetlejuice’s pre-Friday earnings are not far behind the $13.5 million garnered by 2017’s blockbuster hit, It. This film went on to set the opening record for September with $123.4 million. Additionally, Beetlejuice’s preview earnings surpass the $10.5 million made by It: Chapter Two in 2019, which holds the second-highest September opening with $91 million.
Demographic Insights
One interesting aspect to note is the demographic breakdown of Beetlejuice’s audience. The sequel appears to appeal predominantly to female viewers, in contrast to Dune: Part Two, which leaned more towards male viewers at 65%. This gender skew is a unique characteristic that could potentially impact the film’s overall box office performance.
Anticipation for Beetlejuice’s sequel is further fueled by the strong showing in preview earnings. With dedicated fan bases and a high level of anticipation, the film is projected to perform even better as it moves into its official release period. The involvement of talented actresses like Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, and Catherine O’Hara is also a draw for audiences, suggesting that the film may surpass current expectations.
Critical and Audience Reception
The critical reception for Beetlejuice’s sequel on Rotten Tomatoes is positive, with a 78% score from critics and an 87% score from audiences. This indicates that the film is likely to resonate well with viewers and critics alike. The positive reception is a promising sign for the film’s overall success.
Director’s Legacy and Wide Release
Director Tim Burton’s decision to work on a sequel, only the second in his career after Batman Returns in 1992, adds to the anticipation surrounding Beetlejuice. The film’s wide release across 4,500 theaters, including premium formats like Imax, ScreenX, and Dolby, further enhances its reach and potential box office impact. As the film continues its theatrical run, more updates and insights are expected to emerge, shedding light on its performance and reception.