Beetlejuice Beetle was initially planned to be a Max exclusive: 'That was never going to work'

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice smashed Box Office records by racking up $264 million in two weeks since its theatrical opening day, making it a hit for Warner Bros. The sequel to its 1988 predecessor had other premiere plans, like going directly to Max. However, director Tim Burton averted it by making a financial adjustment during Beetlejuice Beetlejuice's production. After all, Burton has the final say in how his work is handled and the final result.

Let's just say that Burton was right in his decision because Beetlejuice Beetlejuice's theatrical exposure paid off tremendously, with strong indicators that the film will be at 2024's best. I could be wrong with my prediction, but with the sequel's $200-plus million gain in revenue, it's most likely.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was first pitched to be a Max exclusive

The comedic-horror film was initially planned to be a Max exclusive. It stars Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara, and Michael Keaton as everyone's favorite undead ghoul, reprising their roles from the first installment. Jenny Ortega is Beetlejuice's newest addition, portraying the daughter of Ryder's character, Lydia. Just like her mother, she embraces all things goth and the supernatural.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice being an exclusive isn't a preposterous idea, as streamers have been the media's primary choice for audiences since the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly changed the entertainment industry. You'll have the comfort of your home and all the FREE concessions to partner with your watch. You don't have to deal with other moviegoers' idle chitchat in the theaters, making it a less-than-ideal experience.

However, Burton wanted his production to have the vision that only theaters could provide since the special effects in his films are genuinely released in their optimum quality on the big screens. The idea of allowing Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to be only on Max was "never going to work."

According to The Times' September 16th report on the movie, Warner Bros. co-chair Pamela Abdy expressed that Burton's craft and talent should be unveiled (first) in a theater.

"[Going only to Max] was never going to work for Tim [Burton]. You’re talking about a visionary artist whose films demand to be seen on a big screen."

For Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to be theatrically released, a change in the budget had to be made. The movie cost $147 million due to actors, producers, and production fees. Burton and his team, including the cast, accepted a smaller paycheck and managed to bring the budget down to $99 million. The novice favorably worked for Burton's masterpiece, as it was a major Box Office draw, a financial explosion for Warner Bros., and will guarantee hefty paybacks and royalties in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice's wake.