Tim Burton recently described the experience of seeing Michael Keaton step onto the set of the much-anticipated sequel to his cult classic, Beetlejuice, as “like being in a time warp.” The director, speaking at the London premiere of the film, shared with Sky News the uncanny feeling of watching Keaton reprise his iconic role 36 years after the original was released.

Reflecting on the shoot, Burton revealed that Keaton didn’t rehearse beforehand. “He just shows up and starts doing it, all that demon possession,” Burton said. “It was like going into a time warp!”

Although Burton has since directed more critically acclaimed films such as Edward Scissorhands and Batman, the 1988 horror-comedy Beetlejuice was his breakthrough, introducing his unique style to Hollywood.

Burton expressed a desire to recapture the “art school irreverence” of the original film, which is why he chose to avoid using CGI in the sequel. “We shot it quickly,” Burton explained, “with all the actors contributing ideas on set every day, which is a challenge when you’re relying on practical effects.”

He continued, “It was rushed and chaotic, but that made it a lot of fun to make. It was in the spirit of the first movie. While it’s not going to win any awards for special effects, it was part of its DNA to do it like this.” 

Burton’s commitment to the original’s spirit and style demonstrates his dedication to maintaining the unique charm that made Beetlejuice a beloved cult classic.