Cryptic Stuff

[not_for_sale2025]

While it was done some years ago I see, I thought I would try a cryptic crossword-like thread for fun and to try and boost a little more interest here. I made up the below question for anyone interested in such a challenge. I thought the first person to get it correct might come up with the next question. A clue though - if you copy one from a newspaper or magazine etc., the answer can often be found on the internet. I can explain the answer for anyone who asks. 🙂

The prisoner at the cave would not stand for the electrically charged droplets of water.

(12 letters)

[not_for_sale2025]

Evolved...

[countessalmirena]

No, not evolved.

Total Beetlejuicers look back after a coup de foudre (7)

_ _ i _ _ _ _

There’s a charade, a direct charade, a reversal indicator. And even in this I’ve been a bit cryptic with regard to one bit…

[not_for_sale2025]

Uniform...

[countessalmirena]

Not uniform.

Total Beetlejuicers look back after a coup de foudre (7)

_ _ i _ _ e _

There’s a charade, a direct charade, a reversal indicator. (Why would I say “direct” charade?)

[twyngwyn]

Smitten…..?

[countessalmirena]

Yes, smitten.

Total Beetlejuicers look back after a coup de foudre (7)

WORDPLAY

total [charade: net]
Beetlejuicers [charade: Tims] (as in multiple Tim Burtons, director of the film]
look back [reversal indicator]
   netTims -> smiTten

DEFINITION

after a coup de foudre = smitten 

Over to you, twyngwyn.

[twyngwyn]

shortens sugarcane and opium (5)

[not_for_sale2025]

Chops.....

[twyngwyn]

no, sorry

shortens sugarcane and opium (5)

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[not_for_sale2025]

Crops.....