Jenna Ortega Shares Her Experience Working with Michael Keaton on the 'Beetlejuice' Sequel | MarkMeets | Celebrity News, Music, Movies, TV, London Film Premieres

Interview: Jenna Ortega

When Jenna Ortega stepped into the world of Tim Burton’s surreal storytelling, she knew she was in for something extraordinary. Fresh off her success in Netflix’s Wednesday, where she portrayed the iconic character in a way that resonated with both new and old fans, Ortega found herself diving into another one of Burton’s fantastical realms. This time, she joined the cast of the highly anticipated sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, where she not only faced the challenge of bringing a new character to life but also had the unique experience of working alongside legendary actor Michael Keaton. The following article delves into her thoughts and experiences on the set, exploring her interactions with Keaton and other cast members, and the surreal environment that only a Tim Burton set can provide.

Jenna Ortega’s Introduction to Tim Burton’s World

A Unique Learning Curve on ‘Wednesday’

Before Jenna Ortega found herself on the set of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, she had already been initiated into Tim Burton’s world through her role in Wednesday. The Netflix series, a reimagining of the Addams Family, required Ortega to immerse herself in a character with deep cultural roots and an eccentric personality, much like the characters in Burton’s earlier works. This experience served as a primer for what was to come. Burton’s vision is one of intricate details and a distinct atmosphere that can sometimes feel more like stepping into an alternate reality than a film set.

Taking on a New Challenge

Transitioning from the world of Wednesday to Beetlejuice Beetlejuice wasn’t just about shifting from one character to another; it was about entering a universe steeped in legacy and expectation. The original Beetlejuice, released in 1988, became an instant classic with its mix of dark humor, quirky characters, and imaginative visuals. For Ortega, this meant stepping into a space that had been cherished by fans for decades. The anticipation was palpable, and she was keenly aware of the responsibility that came with it.

First Encounter with Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice

The Intimidating First Look

One of the most memorable moments for Jenna Ortega on the set of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was her first encounter with Michael Keaton in full Beetlejuice makeup. Keaton’s portrayal of the mischievous ghost in the original film is nothing short of iconic, and seeing him reprise the role was a surreal experience for Ortega.

“It was actually quite intimidating because it was the first time that I felt like I really didn’t recognize somebody,” Ortega shared in an interview. “His hair, makeup—everything looked the exact same, and it was really confusing mentally to be in that place. I felt like I was dissociating and had to stare at my hands to make sure I was an actual person.” This moment set the tone for the rest of the shoot, blending the lines between reality and the bizarre world that Burton so expertly crafts.

Understanding Keaton’s Transformation

For Ortega, watching Keaton transform into Beetlejuice was like witnessing an actor completely vanish into their character. The experience was not just about recognizing his physical transformation but also about observing the way Keaton embodied the chaotic energy of Beetlejuice, which only added to the otherworldly atmosphere on set. It became clear that this was more than just another role for Keaton; it was a return to a character that he had made his own decades ago, now with the added depth of years of experience.

A Warm Welcome from the Cast

Joining a Legacy

Walking onto the set of a sequel to such a beloved film can be daunting, especially when the original cast is still involved. However, Jenna Ortega found herself welcomed with open arms by her co-stars, particularly Winona Ryder, who played Lydia in the original film and now returns as the mother of Ortega’s character, Astrid.

“Obviously joining a sequel to something and it being so long since the original, I think I just wanted to put my head down, do the work, show up, and be respectful,” Ortega said. Her initial plan was to stay low-key and focus on her performance, but the warmth she received from Ryder and the rest of the cast quickly changed that. “Winona was so warm and so welcoming, as was Catherine [O’Hara], as was everybody else,” she added, reflecting on how this acceptance helped her become part of the “family” that had been formed during the original 1988 production.

Building a Bond with Winona Ryder

One of the highlights for Ortega was the bond she developed with Winona Ryder. The two actresses quickly connected on set, sharing stories and insights that deepened their relationship both on and off-screen. “Winona and I—I swear we just started talking one day on set and then never stopped,” Ortega said. “You could find us in the same position four hours later, never having moved. She’s the best.”

This connection not only made Ortega feel at home on the set but also added layers to their characters’ relationship in the film. The chemistry between them became a key element of the movie, reflecting the bond between their characters in a way that feels authentic and deeply rooted in their real-life friendship.

The Unique Environment of a Tim Burton Set

A Sense of Community

Jenna Ortega spoke about how working on a Tim Burton set is unlike anything else, especially on a project like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which has so much history and nostalgia attached to it. “A Burton set, particularly this one, which had so much history on it, often breeds a sense of community,” Ortega explained. The atmosphere on set was one of collaboration and creativity, where everyone felt like they were part of something special.

This sense of community is something that Burton is known for fostering on his sets. He creates environments where actors can fully immerse themselves in their roles and feel supported by their colleagues. For Ortega, this meant feeling free to experiment with her character and trust that the rest of the cast and crew were there to support her.

Working with Iconic Characters

One of the most enjoyable aspects of working on Beetlejuice Beetlejuice for Ortega was interacting with some of the film’s most iconic elements, including the stop-motion sandworms from the original movie. “That was a dream, to work with the sandworms,” Ortega said with a laugh. “I mean, they’re such sweet guys, and I love them all to bits.”

This lighthearted comment highlights the fun and playful spirit that permeated the set, even when dealing with the more bizarre and surreal aspects of the film. It’s this blend of the eerie and the endearing that has always been a hallmark of Burton’s work, and it’s something that Ortega clearly relished being a part of.

Navigating the Expectations of a Sequel

Balancing Respect for the Original with New Contributions

Joining a sequel to such a beloved film comes with its own set of challenges. For Jenna Ortega, the key was balancing the need to respect the original Beetlejuice while also bringing something new to the table. She was acutely aware of the expectations that fans of the original would have and wanted to make sure that her performance honored those while also allowing her to put her own stamp on the character.

Ortega’s approach was one of humility and hard work. She didn’t want to overshadow the original cast or the legacy of the first film but instead aimed to contribute to the story in a meaningful way. This respect for the original material is evident in her portrayal of Astrid, a character who has her own unique personality while also fitting seamlessly into the world that Burton created over three decades ago.

Collaborating with Tim Burton

Working closely with Tim Burton was another highlight for Ortega. She described him as having a “playful spirit” that made the set feel like a collaborative space where everyone was on the same page. This atmosphere allowed the actors to explore their characters in depth and contribute ideas that enhanced the overall story.

For Ortega, this collaboration was crucial in helping her navigate the pressures of joining such a well-known franchise. Burton’s guidance and openness to input made her feel more confident in her role and allowed her to bring her best to the film. It was clear that Burton trusted his actors to understand the tone and style of the film and to bring their own creativity to the table.

Jenna Ortega on Working with the Beetlejuice 2 Cast

Jenna Ortega, well-known for her breakout role in Tim Burton’s Wednesday, recently shared her thoughts on reuniting with Burton and the unique experience of working on Beetlejuice 2. Describing it as “some of the most fun” she’s had on a set, Ortega highlighted the film’s use of practical effects, which she found both challenging and exciting. She noted that the film’s production relied heavily on real sets and handmade props, keeping the spirit of the original Beetlejuice alive.

Ortega also spoke fondly of her co-stars, particularly her on-screen mother, Winona Ryder, with whom she developed a close bond during filming. The two were often seen deep in conversation between takes, creating a strong connection that undoubtedly adds depth to their mother-daughter dynamic on screen.

Michael Keaton, who has described returning to his iconic role as “the most fun you can have working,” brought a lot of energy and spontaneity to the set, which Ortega found both inspiring and a bit intimidating. She recalled her first time seeing Keaton in full Betelgeuse makeup, noting how surreal it was to see him look almost exactly as he did in the original film.

Overall, the cast of Beetlejuice 2 seems to have formed a tight-knit group, with Ortega describing the atmosphere on set as celebratory, especially during scenes that reunited the original cast members with their old roles. Despite the challenges posed by the actors’ strike and the need to rush some sentimental scenes, the cast and crew managed to create a work environment filled with laughter and creativity.

Beetlejuice 2 Cast and Jenna Ortega Interviews

Cast of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

The upcoming Beetlejuice sequel is filled with both returning icons and exciting new faces:

Michael Keaton reprises his role as the mischievous and chaotic Betelgeuse.
Winona Ryder returns as Lydia Deetz, now the mother of a teenager.
Catherine O’Hara is back as Delia Deetz, Lydia’s eccentric stepmother.
Jenna Ortega stars as Astrid, Lydia’s daughter, bringing a fresh yet familiar energy to the Deetz family.
Monica Bellucci joins the cast as Betelgeuse’s wife, adding a new dynamic to the character’s backstory.
Willem Dafoe plays an “afterlife law enforcer,” a role that promises to introduce more dark humor and intrigue.
Justin Theroux is another new addition, though his role remains under wraps.

Looking Ahead: The Premiere of ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’

Building Anticipation for the Release

With the premiere of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice at the Venice Film Festival and its subsequent release in theaters on September 6th, anticipation is building among fans. For Jenna Ortega, this moment is the culmination of months of hard work and collaboration with some of the industry’s most respected figures.

The buzz around the film is already palpable, with many eager to see how the sequel will live up to the legacy of the original. Ortega’s involvement has only added to the excitement, as her rising star power and previous success in Wednesday have brought a new generation of fans to the Beetlejuice franchise.

The Legacy Continues

As Jenna Ortega reflects on her time working on Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, it’s clear that this experience has been a significant one in her career. Not only did she get to work with icons like Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, but she also had the opportunity to be part of a project that means so much to so many people.

The film’s release marks a new chapter in the Beetlejuice saga, one that honors the original while also introducing new characters and stories for a modern audience. For Ortega, this is a chance to show her range as an actress and to contribute to a film that is sure to be remembered for years to come.

Final Thoughts on Jenna Ortega’s Journey

Jenna Ortega’s journey from Wednesday to Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a testament to her versatility and talent as an actress. She has proven that she can handle the complexities of a character in a Tim Burton film, bringing both depth and a fresh perspective to her roles. Her experience working with Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and the rest of the cast has only enriched her performance, making Beetlejuice Beetlejuice one of the most anticipated films of the year.

As fans eagerly await the release, it’s clear that Jenna Ortega’s contribution to the film will be a significant one. Her portrayal of Astrid, alongside the return of beloved characters and Burton’s unique vision, promises to deliver a film that will captivate audiences and continue the legacy of Beetlejuice for years to come.

The world of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is about to expand, and Jenna Ortega is at the heart of it, ready to take audiences on a journey that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.