The 2017 adaptation of Stephen King’s classic horror novel “It” brought a fresh and terrifying take on the story of the Losers’ Club and their encounter with the malevolent entity, Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Directed by Andy Muschietti, the film is set in the small town of Derry, Maine, where children begin to disappear under mysterious circumstances.
The movie opens with a haunting scene that sets the tone for the rest of the film: young Georgie Denbrough meets a gruesome fate at the hands of Pennywise, played with chilling effectiveness by Bill Skarsgård. Unlike the 1990 miniseries, Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise is less about overt terror and more about a sinister undercurrent of menace, toying with his prey in a way that is both captivating and horrifying.
“It” shines not just as a horror movie but also as a coming-of-age story. The ensemble cast of young actors, including Jaeden Martell as Bill Denbrough and Sophia Lillis as Beverly Marsh, deliver performances that are both authentic and emotionally resonant. Their portrayal of the Losers’ Club captures the essence of childhood friendship, with all its trials and tribulations, set against the backdrop of an unspeakable evil.
The film’s success lies in its ability to balance moments of levity with the terror that lurks around every corner. The chemistry among the young cast members provides a counterpoint to the darkness, offering moments of humor and warmth that enhance the overall narrative.
Visually, “It” is a feast for the eyes, with Muschietti’s direction bringing King’s world to life in vivid detail. The cinematography captures the eerie atmosphere of Derry, while the special effects used to bring Pennywise to life are both impressive and unsettling.
The screenplay, penned by Chase Palmer, Cary Fukunaga, and Gary Dauberman, smartly updates the setting to the late 1980s, tapping into a vein of nostalgia that resonates with many viewers. This choice also allows for a more focused narrative, as it does not jump back and forth in time as the novel does.
While the film is indeed frightening, with several jump scares and tense sequences, it is the psychological horror that leaves a lasting impression. Pennywise preys on the deepest fears of the children, and the film explores these personal horrors in a way that is both intimate and expansive.
In the Nutshell
“It” (2017) is a well-crafted horror film that stays true to the spirit of Stephen King’s novel while carving out its own identity. It is a story about the loss of innocence and the power of friendship in the face of adversity. With strong performances, effective scares, and a poignant narrative, “It” is a standout film that both terrifies and touches the heart. I give 4 out of 5 stars.
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