Fans of both Beetlejuice and its sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice are sure to enjoy one of the most unique films of 2025, The Parenting. A Max original movie, The Parenting has a handful of things in common with the beloved Tim Burton franchise. After becoming a surprise hit in the late 80s, Beetlejuice and its тιтular character ended up as iconic figures in pop culture, spawning a TV show and, eventually, a sequel that arrived in 2024.
On the other side, The Parenting is a straight-to-streaming film from a little-known director that has flown under the radar but boasts a very impressive cast that includes HBO standouts Brian Cox (Succession) and Parker Posey (The White Lotus). The similarities between the films are so strong that there are times when The Parenting feels like it might as well be a remake of Beetlejuice.
Fans Of The Beetlejuice Movies Will Probably Enjoy The Parenting
The Horror Comedies Have A Lot In Common
Similar to Beetlejuice, The Parenting starts with a simple enough premise as two families gather at what ends up being a haunted house. However, the connections just continue on from there as the new Max film even features a handful of easter eggs that reference Beetlejuice. For example, a green light is used when Frank gets possessed in an homage to the ’80s classic and there’s even a case of characters singing around a dinner table together.
Neither film takes itself too seriously either, meaning that fans of Beetlejuice should vibe with the tone of The Parenting.
On top of that, the entrances to the homes in the films are very similar, Brenda’s personality somewhat lines up with Delia’s, and the wallpaper used would fit right in at the home of the Maitlands. Neither film takes itself too seriously either, meaning that fans of Beetlejuice should vibe with the tone of The Parenting. It’s a goofy horror comedy that is bolstered by the talented actors on screen.
The Parenting Is A Fun Watch, Despite Its Rotten Tomatoes Score
The Film Is Fun From Start To Finish
Reviews for The Parenting were mixed at best, as it currently holds a 44% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. However, a closer look reveals that the Popcornmeter, which features reviews from everyday moviegoers, sits at 87%, showcasing just how much fun the general audience had with it. As noted, the fact that The Parenting doesn’t take itself too seriously, along the same lines as Beetlejuice, endears it to viewers.
The film understands that it works best as a goofy horror comedy and leans into that. Whether it’s Brian Cox going all in on a strong physical comedy performance when he gets possessed or the hilarious Lisa Kudrow and Parker Posey delivering funny lines, The Parenting is just a good time. It’s not the kind of movie you watch to see an Oscar contender, yet it’s ideal for a fun way to spend 90 or so minutes.
