‘I Was Clueless’: Michael Keaton Opens Up On His Role In Dumbo; Claims He Let Tim Burton Down

As a lifestyle expert with a keen eye for Hollywood history and a deep appreciation for the art of filmmaking, I must say that Michael Keaton‘s candid confession about his performance in Dumbo is both refreshing and insightful. His humility and honesty are rare qualities in an industry where ego often takes center stage.


In preparation for his upcoming horror-comedy “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” directed by Tim Burton, set to premiere next month, Michael Keaton reminisced about one of his previous roles. Specifically, he referenced his part in the 2019 film “Dumbo,” which was a more modest role compared to others throughout his career.

During a chat with The New York Times, the renowned movie star admitted that he disappointed director Tim Burton during their collaboration on the film. Additionally, the actor confessed that his depiction of V.A. Vandevere occasionally haunts him to this day.

During an interview with the media, Keaton expressed, “Working with Tim is something I deeply enjoy, yet we’ve never really stopped to figure out why our collaboration works so seamlessly – it just does.” He also admitted, “I feel I fell short on one film, but that’s my own fault. To this day, it still bothers me. I was utterly lost during Dumbo, and I truly didn’t deliver a good performance in that movie.”

While the actor shared his dissatisfaction with his role in the 2019 film, the director, seated next to him, responded, “Frankly, I’m not sure what you’re referring to, but it doesn’t matter.”

In essence, the movie Dumbo originated from a 1941 animated production. The story revolves around an elephant named Dumbo who was employed by the circus to amuse spectators. Interestingly, when some individuals realized that Dumbo could fly, they aimed to capitalize on this unique ability.

Speaking of the actors joining Michael Keaton in the live-action movie, they were Danny DeVito and Colin Farrell.

Regarding the movie, director Burton shared that he had thought about leaving the film industry after 2019. However, the enthusiastic reception from the audience for both Wednesday and Beetlejuice 2 rekindled his enthusiasm, leading him to decide to carry on with his work.

During interviews for his upcoming movie, Tim Burton expressed, “To be honest, after Dumbo, I wasn’t sure. I even considered it might be my last project,” he added, “I might have hung up my director’s hat or pursued… well, I wouldn’t have returned to animation; that phase is behind me.”

In discussing his Netflix project and the upcoming Beetlejuice sequel, the director expressed, “It solidified for me that I should pursue my own desires, as this benefits everyone in the end.”

Speaking of Beetlejuice, Michael Keaton is set to return as the character he played, the spectral Beetlejuice. Joining him in this sequel are Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega, who will bring the roles of Lydia and Astrid to life.

The sequel to the 1988 film is set to release on September 6. 

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2024-08-28 17:07