The iconic ghost is back, but this time with a new rating.

The sequel “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” which follows Tim Burton’s 1988 cult classic horror-comedy “Beetlejuice,” is hitting theaters this weekend. Unlike the original’s PG rating, this new film has received a PG-13 rating.

If you have nostalgic memories of enjoying Michael Keaton’s Beetlejuice antics in your childhood, you might want to weigh the differences between the two films before taking your kids along on this nostalgic journey.

Here’s what parents should know about “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” (now showing in theaters):

What is the story of the new ‘Beetlejuice’ sequel?

In “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” Delia Deetz (Catherine O’Hara), Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), and Lydia’s daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) return to the fictional Winter River after facing a family tragedy.

Although the film shares a name with Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton), the focus largely revolves around the relationships among Lydia, Astrid, and Delia as they cope with their loss and navigate their connections with each other.

What makes ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ PG-13?

“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is rated PG-13 due to its violent scenes, bloody visuals, strong profanity, depiction of drug use, and suggestive themes.

While some of the violence leans towards the cartoonish side, it doesn’t shy away from showing blood spurting from injuries or demon babies crawling with a focus on gore. Alongside ghosts and ghouls presenting their grim antics, Beetlejuice continues to pursue Lydia in ways that can be deemed inappropriate. Additionally, Lydia faces unfunny coercion regarding medication and unamusing pressure about marrying her boyfriend.

This raises the question: how did the original film, which included its share of violence, mild language, innuendos, and dark themes, receive a PG rating?

Should kids watch ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’?

It’s somewhat surprising to say this, considering I enjoyed the original film at a young age and I’ve happily revisited it every fall, but I wouldn’t advise bringing children 10 or younger to see this sequel.

Nostalgia often colors our memories of entertainment, making us feel warm about it, rather than recognizing the actual content.

Though both movies address tough themes like death and complicated family dynamics, this new film seems to carry a heavier tone amid the humor.

With the mix of silliness and spookiness, it can be easy to overlook the fact that these are horror films, and “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” features noticeably more blood and grotesque imagery than the first film.

Preteens may find the film’s wacky situations entertaining, particularly if they liked the original or similar horror-themed content. However, the more serious aspects related to the family’s grief and the artistic references in certain scenes may be harder for them to comprehend or appreciate.