In an exciting blend of film nostalgia and contemporary travel experiences, Airbnb’s Icons program has launched an extraordinary opportunity: lodging at the iconic Deetz residence from the beloved “Beetlejuice” franchise. Situated in Hillsborough, New Jersey, this unique offering allows fans to immerse themselves in the imaginative world of Tim Burton’s creation.
As a pivotal setting in both the original “Beetlejuice” film and its recent blockbuster sequel, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” the Deetz home offers an experience that transcends typical film tourism. Guests will find themselves surrounded by art inspired by Delia Deetz, played by Catherine O’Hara, exploring a miniature model of the town, and may even stumble upon the mythical portal to The Afterlife. This gateway promises an eerie brush with the supernatural, potentially filled with encounters from the otherworldly denizens of Burton’s universe.
This immersive venture into the “Beetlejuice” world arrives just as the sequel has taken cinemas by storm, garnering over $400 million globally. The film sees the return of Michael Keaton as the charismatic spirit, Betelgeuse, and Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz, with the addition of Jenna Ortega playing Lydia’s defiant daughter, Astrid, who navigates her own spectral dilemmas.
The opportunity to stay at the Deetz residence will be available for a limited time, starting this Wednesday and concluding on November 4th. This experience is exclusive, with only ten groups, each session accommodating up to six people for a three-hour visit. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to book, though individuals aged 13 and above are permitted to join in on this unique journey.
The house, adorned with elements directly from Burton’s films, captures the quirky spirit of the “Beetlejuice” universe meticulously. One of the highlights is Lydia’s bedroom, designed in striking black and white, filled with mood-setting artifacts that reflect her Gothic inclinations.
Celebrated director Tim Burton expressed his delight about the Airbnb project in a recent Variety interview, recommending it not just as a tribute to the film’s fans but as a genuine piece of his artistic universe brought to life. Further, critic Anthony Lane from The New Yorker praised this initiative as a testament to the enduring legacy of “Beetlejuice,” appreciating the way it allows enthusiasts to engage intimately with the film’s whimsical elements.
“Beetlejuice,” which debuted in 1988, was a pioneer in dark comedy and fantasy, bringing to the forefront Tim Burton’s signature style of Gothic humor. It achieved box office success and became an integral part of pop culture, inspiring an array of merchandise, a Broadway musical, and even theme park attractions.
With the sequel, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” the franchise builds on its cult status while introducing the peculiar charm of the undead to new fans. Jenna Ortega’s casting connects the story to the current fascination with Gothic-themed narratives, ensuring the film’s relevance in contemporary pop culture.
Initial visitors have shared their experiences via social media, detailing the authenticity of the set and the surreal feeling of walking through the film’s beautifully eerie locations. Film historian Jessica Hall commented on her blog that the Airbnb setup is not merely nostalgic but a clever utilization of pop culture space that offers a rich, immersive experience.
For true “Beetlejuice” aficionados and those intrigued by the fantastical, this Airbnb experience is an unprecedented opportunity. Guests will not only witness Delia’s eclectic art installations but also tread a path similar to Lydia’s through the kooky hallways of the Deetz residence. It promises fans an adventure where they can live out scenes from their favorite film, blurring the line between movie magic and reality.
The stay at the Deetz house is an ardently crafted homage to a film that, like its mischievous protagonist, continues to resonate with audiences old and new. The backdrop of the Elmer Bernstein-scored soundtrack enhances the immersion, ensuring that visitors leave with indelible memories tinged with the mystical and whimsical atmosphere of “Beetlejuice,” captured perfectly in this one-of-a-kind lodging experience.
