Dark fantasy is a genre that is loved, although not particularly new.
Dark fantasy movies usually include visuals that are intentionally creepy or disturbing but can remain light-hearted overall.
Of course, this isn’t always the case.
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Taken at face value, the movie is totally fine for kids.
Where it becomes disturbing, though, is in its subtext.
The story is about a young girl who is moving to a new town.
Image via Studio Ghibli
On the way there, her parents get sidetracked and decide to visit an old abandoned amusement park.
Though it is pretty dark as fantasy flicks go,Beetlejuiceis not so dark as to make anyone uncomfortable.
Like the trickster himself, it’s more darkly playful than outright off-putting, making it endlessly rewatchable.
This spiritual successor to 1939’sThe Wizard of Ozis nothing like the uppity, colorful, happy original.
In fact,Return to Ozcan be nothing short of horrifying at times, even for adults.
First, she must pass a series of trials.
Image via Warner Bros.
Where it gets really dark comes in the background plot, which gradually reveals why the estate is haunted.
The fantasy aspect comes from its demons and mythological creatures, as well as the sorcerers present in it.
As for the reason it is so dark, it’s because it’s incredibly violent and gory.
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Image via AB Svensk Filmindustri
Image via Universal Pictures
