Beetlejuice, the iconic 1988 film directed by Tim Burton, has captivated audiences with its dark humor, unique visual style, and memorable characters. One of the most intriguing aspects of the movie is the titular character’s peculiar name, which is pronounced “Beetlejuice” but spelled “Betelgeuse.” This play on words not only adds a touch of quirkiness to the film but also has a deeper meaning rooted in astronomy.
The name “Betelgeuse” is derived from the Betelgeuse star, which is located in the constellation of Orion. Betelgeuse is a red supergiant star, one of the largest and brightest in the night sky. Its name is believed to originate from the Arabic phrase “yad al-Jauza,” meaning the hand of al-Jauza, a female figure in Arabic mythology.
So why does Beetlejuice, the mischievous ghost portrayed by Michael Keaton, say “Betelgeuse” instead of his own name? The answer lies in the character’s mischievous and unpredictable nature. Beetlejuice is known for his unconventional behavior and his tendency to manipulate those around him. By intentionally mispronouncing his own name, he adds an extra layer of eccentricity and confusion to his persona.
The choice to use the name “Betelgeuse” also serves as a clever homage to the celestial object. Just like the star Betelgeuse, Beetlejuice resides in a realm of darkness and the supernatural. The star itself is located in the constellation of Orion, which is often associated with the concept of death and rebirth in various mythologies. This connection to death and the afterlife aligns perfectly with Beetlejuice’s role as a “bio-exorcist,” a ghost who helps living beings get rid of the deceased.
Furthermore, the constellation of Orion is one of the most recognizable in the night sky, featuring three prominent stars in a row that form Orion’s Belt. By associating Beetlejuice’s name with the Betelgeuse star, the filmmakers cleverly link the character to the constellation, emphasizing his otherworldly nature and his connection to the supernatural.
It’s worth mentioning that the decision to spell Beetlejuice’s name as “Betelgeuse” was not immediately obvious to everyone. In fact, screenwriter Michael McDowell was surprised that anyone picked up on the reference. The play on words and the connection to the celestial object may have been subtle to some viewers, but it added an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the character’s name.
The reason why Beetlejuice says “Betelgeuse” is a clever play on words and a nod to the Betelgeuse star in the constellation of Orion. By mispronouncing his own name, Beetlejuice adds to his mischievous and unpredictable nature, while also emphasizing his connection to the supernatural and the afterlife. This attention to detail showcases the thoughtfulness and creativity of the filmmakers, making Beetlejuice even more memorable and intriguing.