The iconic red covered bridge from Beetlejuice (1988) holds a pivotal place in the movie’s story and production. Serving as the site of Adam and Barbara Maitland’s tragic car accident, this bridge marks the turning point where the couple transitions into the afterlife, setting the stage for the rest of the film. The bridge, located in East Corinth, Vermont, was specially constructed by the filmmakers over a simple, existing bridge to create the memorable structure seen on screen.
Construction and Filming
For the first Beetlejuice movie, the production team designed and built a red “cover” to transform a basic bridge into the now-iconic setting. The cover was meticulously crafted to match the small-town charm of Winter River, the fictional village where the Maitlands reside. Notably, the bridge didn’t connect to any real roads, adding to the illusion of the movie’s whimsical yet eerie setting.
When Beetlejuice 2 began production, the filmmakers reconstructed the bridge cover at the same location, further solidifying its place as a hallmark of the series. A resident of East Corinth recalls the day the crash scene was filmed, highlighting how the crew designed a separate road to simulate the Maitlands’ car swerving to avoid a dog before crashing through the side of the bridge and plunging into the water below.
After Filming
Following the completion of the first movie, the bridge’s cover structure was relocated to Northeast Slopes, a historic, community-owned ski area established in 1936. This move preserved the bridge as a piece of cinematic history, allowing fans to visit and experience a tangible piece of the film’s legacy.
As Seen on Screen
The bridge prominently appears in the opening credits, alongside aerial shots of the quaint town of Winter River. The scene not only sets the tone for the film but also reinforces the charm and character of the Maitlands’ small-town life. This location, deeply intertwined with the movie’s plot, has become a beloved landmark for fans of Beetlejuice.
Today, visitors to Northeast Slopes, can view the preserved bridge cover and reflect on its role in one of cinema’s most memorable supernatural comedies. For fans of Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice, this bridge is a must-see stop for reliving the magic of the film.
