Beetlejuice: 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition

Before Batman, director Tim Burton and star Michael Keaton teamed up for this popular black comedy about a young couple named Adam and Barbara (Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis), whose premature deaths lead them into a series of wildly bizarre afterlife exploits. As ghosts in their own New England home, the pair are faced with the challenge of scaring off the pretentious new owners (Catherine O'Hara and Jeffrey Jones), whose daughter (Winona Ryder) has an affinity for all things morbid. Keaton plays the mischievous Beetlejuice, a freelance “bio-exorcist” who helps the young undead newlyweds, but also has his own evil agenda. Beetlejuice is not only a fine showcase for Burton's wild visual style and twisted imagination (with clever ideas and gags packed into every scene), but also a triumph for Keaton, who tackles the titular role with maniacal relish and a dark menacing edge. Boasting a sharp new transfer (especially on Blu-ray), extras include three episodes from the animated series, and a “Beginner's Guide to Seeing Ghosts” booklet. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is a bonus six-track CD soundtrack sampler. Recommended. (J. Shannon)