"Actress Jenna Ortega, who stars in the highly anticipated sequel to the cult classic 'Beetlejuice,' shares her perspective on why film can have a profound impact on viewers, akin to a religious experience."
"Beetlejuice" star Jenna Ortega has echoed Winona Ryder's sentiments, stating that films can be a "religious experience" for viewers. Ortega, who plays Astrid Deetz in the upcoming sequel, shared her thoughts with Fox News Digital.
"I think I agree... a big thing about religion is... it's good to believe in something... Something religion can bring to people is hope, and that's what film does as well," Ortega explained.
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
She elaborated on the escapist and transformative power of cinema. "It can be a form of escapism; you can forget your worries and problems. Or you can watch something and take whatever it is that the character's learned and apply it into your own life."
Ortega highlighted the profound influence films can have on personal development. "It can alter and form your sense of humor... taste and what you like visually. They're just so incredibly influential on people and who they become. I would say I stand by that and agree with that."
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
Ortega's comments align with Ryder's previous remarks, in which she described the "sacred" bond formed between her and her on-screen daughter Jenna Ortega while filming "Beetlejuice 2." Ryder acknowledged the shared belief in the transcendent power of film.
"It almost felt holy, like some sort of blessing from above, which, I think, is because we share the belief that film can be a kind of religious experience," Ryder had stated.
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
Ortega echoed the sentiment, expressing her admiration for Ryder's presence on set. "I feel like if you locked Winona and I in a blacked-out room...we could talk for hours, no touching of the phones," she said. "Just eye contact, in a dream."
Returning to the original cast, Ortega shared her awe upon witnessing Michael Keaton's transformation into the iconic Beetlejuice. "I remember feeling my soul leave my body for a second," she recalled.
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
Catherine O'Hara, who reprises her role as Delia Deetz, described the thrilling and surreal experience of seeing Keaton reprise the role. "It was thrilling and ridiculous... hilarious and inspiring," O'Hara said. "Looking at Michael's face up close... It's just happiness and madness."
For Ortega, joining the "Beetlejuice" franchise was an honor. "How cool is that? That I got to be a part of that," she exclaimed. "I don't know how it happened. I don't know why he asked me back, but what an honor. I mean, truly."
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
She praised Tim Burton's collaborative and supportive directing style. "Working with Tim every day... he's so collaborative and so sweet, so kind... it was nice because then I got to show up and play with Catherine O'Hara... make crazy faces at Winona Ryder. It was just an unbelievable world and experience."
"Beetlejuice 2" hits theaters on September 6, promising a nostalgic and captivating experience for fans of the original and newcomers alike.
Jenna Ortega on 'Beetlejuice 2': Why Film Can Be a 'Religious Experience'
