Warning: SPOILERS ahead for *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*!
Alfred Gough, the writer of *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*, has shed light on the choice to feature a new song in the sequel’s possession dance scene, departing from the iconic “Banana Boat (Day-O)” used in the original film. In one of the most unforgettable moments from the first installment, the Maitlands take over the Deetz family and their guests, making them dance to Harry Belafonte’s lively tune. In contrast, the sequel culminates in a similar scene where Betelgeuse (Michael Keaton) attempts to wed Lydia (Winona Ryder) once more, this time orchestrating a possession that has her family and other characters lip-syncing to “MacArthur Park” by Richard Harris.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Gough elaborated on the rationale behind using “MacArthur Park” instead of the classic “Banana Boat (Day-O)” for the possession scene in *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*. This creative choice stemmed from director Tim Burton’s vision, which inspired the writers to craft an ever-evolving sequence. Gough further noted that since Betelgeuse was not the one who used Belafonte’s song in the original, choosing a different piece for his scene was fitting. Here’s what Gough shared:
“Once we had the script finalized and everything was functioning smoothly, we had the freedom to iterate on ideas and throw in unexpected twists. We all agreed on needing a musical number but were unsure of its form. The movie seemed to be wrapping up too tidily until Tim reached out to us. We listened to [MacArthur Park], and it became the foundation for crafting a musical number. We continued to refine it, realizing it was the perfect, crazy, weird, and wild element needed for the film’s conclusion.”
“Interestingly, Beetlejuice doesn’t actually perform ‘Day-O.’ It’s the Maitlands who use it against the Deetzes. For the sequel, we wondered, ‘How can we position Beetlejuice as the ringleader of this bizarre scenario?'”
What “MacArthur Park” Means for *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*
The Scene Gives the Sequel Its Own Distinctiveness
The inclusion of “MacArthur Park” in *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice* provides a vivid and unique finale to the movie. Betelgeuse compels Lydia, Delia (Catherine O’Hara), Astrid (Jenna Ortega), Rory (Justin Theroux), and Father Damien (Burn Gorman) to partake in the spectacle as a wedding cake rolls out and celebration lights flicker. This scene captures the same eccentric spirit as the original, with Keaton’s character taking charge of possessing multiple people, unlike the Maitlands in the first film. This change results in a fresh yet memorable demonstration of the titular character’s chaotic prowess and willingness to create ludicrous scenarios.
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This moment also serves to distinguish the sequel from its predecessor. While “Banana Boat (Day-O)” appears during Charles Deetz’s funeral sung by a choir of children, it avoids direct replication of the original’s possession scene. Burton seemingly intended to invite comparisons without directly mirroring the first film, allowing the *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice* cast to engage in a nostalgic yet original scene that doesn’t feel redundant.
Our Take on *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*’s “MacArthur Park” Scene
It’s the Perfect Complement to the Original
Though the sequel doesn’t feature “Banana Boat (Day-O)” in its possession dance, the switch to “MacArthur Park” distinguishes it from the original. The new song provides the sequel with its own character, helping it stand as a distinct film rather than just a nostalgic revisit to the franchise. This possession scene leaves a lasting impression, contributing to the film’s unique identity with a memorable ending.
As of now, *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice* has grossed $147.2 million worldwide, against a production budget of $100 million.
Source: EW
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
- Comedy
- Supernatural
- Fantasy
- Horror
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is the sequel to the original Tim Burton classic that starred Michael Keaton and Wynona Rider in a horror-comedy that involved ghosts trying to scare off new homebuyers from taking their house. The sequel brings back Michael Keaton as the hilarious and sleazy ghost with selfish intentions, now joined by Jenna Ortega in a new role.
