There have been many movies over the years that have influenced people. One of those movies that we may not think about very often is Beetlejuice. It is a movie that most of us are familiar with and perhaps we have even seen it a number of times. Now that 32 years have passed since the release of the movie, it’s a good time to think about some of the hidden gems that we may not have known about. Here are 10 things about the movie that most people don’t know.
1. It was a horror film originally
When you look at the plot of the movie, it makes sense to think that it was going to be a horror movie. By the time Tim Burton and Michael Keaton got working on it, however, it became a comedy.
2. It was a low-budget film
Beetlejuice had a rather low budget to work with so they had to achieve many of the special effects without all of the cash behind it.
3. Many of the cast turned down the role at first
After reading the script, many in the cast decided it wasn’t for them. In fact, Gina Davis was the only actor in the movie to be excited about what she read.
4. The original name for the movie was “Scared Sheetless”
Beetlejuice seems like a rather unusual name for a horror film turn to comedy. The original name may have been funny, but they decided it wasn’t the best option.
5. Glenn Shadix’s had the song Da-O played at his funeral
The most iconic song from Beetlejuice was played at the actor’s funeral when he died in 2010.
6. Michael Keaton was only on screen for 17.5 minutes
Even though he was the big star of the show and its namesake, he was only on screen for 17.5 minutes.
7. Most of Michael Keaton’s lines were improvised
He may not have been on screen very long but he managed to improvise almost every line in the movie. According to some reports, he ad-libbed about 90% of the time.
8. The test audience wanted a happier ending
When the screening of the film took place with the test audience, they weren’t very happy with the ending.
9. It’s Michael Keaton’s favorite movie
Michael Keaton has played in many movies over the years but Beetlejuice is his favorite.
10. Michael Keaton would like to be part of the sequel
Although a sequel to the movie is not in the works, Keaton has admitted that he would be first in line if it became an opportunity.