MovieChat Forums > Beetlejuice (1988) Discussion > Symbolism is Beetlejuice

Symbolism is Beetlejuice

posted 9 years ago by bossdog677
4 replies | jump to latest

Betelgeuse first of all is a super giant star in the sky, Juno is the Roman God of love and marriage, Saturn is mentioned and is said to be where Sandworm Land is. While in Sandworm Land (Saturn) Barbara says "I'm turning yellow" perhaps from the wind? The Yellow Wind that comes from the gates of hell every few generations to set the world on fire killing everybody even those who try to seek shelter in caves under the earth one by one. Is there any other symbolism I missed and what does this all mean

[–] mvqtr 9 years ago

Here's an idea I've been kicking around, though I can't find any support online for it:

Similar to how chewing tabacco is used in America, in India, the betel (pronounced like "beetle") leaf is chewed and spit out in long streams of saliva (or juice). Over time, this stains your teeth a purplish red. I've read it referred to as betel-juice. So was Tim Burton having a little fun by alternatively naming Beetlejuice after disgusting, teeth staining, streams of expectorate? I certainly wouldn't dismiss the notion out of hand.

[–] bossdog677 9 years ago

In the words of Ace Ventura "Yummy"

[–] HellFire (561) 2 months ago

[deleted]

[–] HellFire (561) 2 months ago

Beetlejuice transforming into a snake as well. Here's an analysis on the symbolism of the film.

https://youtu.be/78oJ8MIMwM0?feature=shared