Tuesday Addams Vibes: Jenna Ortega's Beetlejuice 2
The most recent Beetlejuice 2 teaser has generated conversation on Jenna Ortega's character, Astrid, and her resemblance to her legendary role as Wednesday Addams on Netflix's popular series. The trailer shows Astrid bullied at high school, reflecting Wednesday's struggles to fit in. This inadvertent nod to Wednesday could draw in the huge audience for the show to the movie.
Though Astrid is meant to be a fresh take on Lydia Deetz's rebellious attitude, Ortega's casting makes it difficult to overlook the Wednesday Addams influence. Long-time Beetlejuice enthusiasts have expressed worries about the sequel perhaps becoming a mere rehash of Wednesday. A straight copy of Ortega's past work would be a major letdown following a three-decade wait.
Character Similarities in Beetlejuice 2: Inevitable Connections Wednesday by Jenna Ortega
That some parallels exist between Beetlejuice 2 and Wednesday is hardly shocking. Among their shared elements are Tim Burton's direction, Jenna Ortega as the lead, Alfred Gough and Miles Millar as screenwriters. Additionally adding to a shared tone are the eerie look and family-friendly horror vibes.
Still, some aspects—like Ortega's particular performance on Wednesday—are specific to that character. Still, her unique screen presence permeates other works including X, Scream, and currently Beetlejuice 2. These projects highlight Ortega's talent, but they also show commonalities across her roles.
The Beetlejuice 2 Character Must Avoid Becoming Wednesday Jenna Ortega
Astrid must develop beyond being merely a carbon copy of Wednesday if Beetlejuice 2 is a fulfilling sequel and stand-in for a movie in its own right. Although both projects have an obvious shared creative vision, using the same character archetype would be a mistake.
Examining Astrid's need to fit in contrasts with Wednesday's intentional outsider reputation helps one to set her apart. This might make Astrid more relatable and vulnerable while providing a fresh viewpoint. Furthermore, emphasizing the complex dynamics between Astrid and her mother, Lydia, might provide a macabre mother-daughter story unique from Wednesday's emphasis on personal development.
In order to avoid repetition and provide a really fulfilling addition to the Beetlejuice legacy, Beetlejuice 2 has to find a different road for Astrid that separates her from Wednesday's character.
With Michael Keaton as the cheeky ghost, Betelgeuse, Beetlejuice 2 is much awaited follow-up to the Tim Burton classic. Jenna Ortega will join the cast of this sequel, lending a new viewpoint on the ghostly antics.
