On this day in Horror History, Beetlejuice debuted theatrically. From the brilliance of Tim Burton and an award winning effects team, the ’88 release has embedded itself into cult infamy. Starring Michael Keaton as the extravagant and sinister "bio-exorcist" named Betelgeuse (phonetic pronunciation is film’s namesake), the movie is just as peculiarly intriguing behind the scenes as it was before our very eye. Prior to being filmed, the script mandated a much more demonic approach in which Beetlejuice was a winged, reptilian demon who would take upon the form of small Middle Eastern man before mortal eyes. Another odd event leading to the classic which we all know today is the studio’s intervention after conveying the dislike of the title and suggesting "House Ghosts" instead. In mockery of their alteration of his vision, Burton suggested the name "Scared Sheetless", only to be disgusted when they actually liked it.
A moment in cinematic history that has become special in the hearts of so many, Beetlejuice will forever stand the test of time as one of the most imaginative and memorable films of a generation.
“Ah. Well... I attended Juilliard... I'm a graduate of the Harvard business school. I travel quite extensively. I lived through the Black Plague and had a pretty good time during that. I've seen the EXORCIST ABOUT A HUNDRED AND SIXTY-SEVEN TIMES, AND IT KEEPS GETTING FUNNIER EVERY SINGLE TIME I SEE IT... NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THAT YOU'RE TALKING TO A DEAD GUY... NOW WHAT DO YOU THINK? You think I'm qualified?” –Beetlejuice
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