Stephen King’s “It” is a gripping novel that delves into the depths of fear, friendship, and the haunting shadows of the past. The story unfolds in the small town of Derry, Maine, where a malevolent entity known as “It” surfaces every 27 years to feed on the town’s children. The narrative alternates between two timelines: the children’s battle against “It” in 1958 and their reunion in 1985 to vanquish the entity once and for all.
The “Losers’ Club,” a group of seven friends, forms the heart of the story. The group includes Bill Denbrough, Ben Hanscom, Beverly Marsh, Richie Tozier, Eddie Kaspbrak, Mike Hanlon, and Stan Uris, each with their unique strengths and vulnerabilities. The novel showcases their courage, camaraderie, and unwavering resolve to fight against the monstrous “It.”
Movie Overview of “It” (2017)
Directed by Andy Muschietti, the 2017 film adaptation of “It” is a nerve-wracking journey that seamlessly blends horror, suspense, and emotion. The movie maintains the core essence of Stephen King’s novel, with a few alterations to fit the cinematic medium.
The film is a two-part series, with the first part, “It Chapter One,” focusing on the children’s first encounter with “It” in 1988 and their vow to defeat the entity if it ever returns. The second part, “It Chapter Two,” released in 2019, depicts the Losers’ Club reuniting 27 years later to fulfill their vow.
Juxtaposition: Book vs Movie
While the movie stays faithful to the novel’s spirit, there are noticeable discrepancies. The book offers a more intricate exploration of the characters’ psyche, their fears, and their growth, enriching the narrative with layers of complexity. Conversely, the movie relies on visual storytelling, potent performances, and atmospheric cinematography to bring the tale to life.
One major deviation is the temporal setting. The book’s childhood timeline is set in 1958, while the movie shifts this to 1988, presumably to resonate better with contemporary audiences.
Setting the Stage: Time and Place
Both the book and the movie are set in Derry, a fictional town in Maine, a frequent locale in Stephen King’s works. The narrative spans several decades, starting in the late 1950s (or late 1980s in the movie) and stretching into the late 1980s (or 2016 in the movie). Derry’s tranquil facade hides a dark underbelly, with “It” embodying the town’s lurking horrors.
“It” Filming Locations
Although Derry is a figment of King’s imagination, the movie was filmed in real locations to capture the town’s eerie charm. Most of “It” was filmed in Port Hope, Ontario, which served as the cinematic counterpart for Derry. The town’s nostalgic aesthetics, coupled with meticulously crafted set pieces, effectively bring the spine-chilling world of “It” to life.
Decoding the Characters in “It”
Both the book and the movie present a compelling ensemble of characters, each leaving an indelible impact on the narrative. Here’s a brief introduction to the key characters:
- Bill Denbrough: Portrayed by Jaeden Lieberher in the movie, Bill is the Losers’ Club’s de facto leader. His determination to avenge his younger brother’s death at the hands of “It” drives the narrative.
- Ben Hanscom: Played by Jeremy Ray Taylor in the movie, Ben is the new kid in town and a victim of bullying. His bravery and intelligence play a crucial role in the Losers’ battle against “It.”
- Beverly Marsh, Richie Tozier, Eddie Kaspbrak, Mike Hanlon, and Stan Uris: These characters, portrayed by Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Jack Dylan Grazer, Chosen Jacobs, and Wyatt Oleff respectively, bring their unique strengths to the table, enriching the narrative’s emotional depth.
Iconic Quotes from “It”
“It” is replete with profound and thought-provoking quotes. A few memorable lines from the movie include:
- “We all float down here.”
- “When you’re a kid, you assume your parents are soulmates. My mom’s heart is buried in the backyard.”
- “Fear…it’s the best kind.”
These quotes encapsulate the themes of fear, childhood innocence, and the power of belief that resonate throughout the story.
The Rhythms of Fear: Benjamin Wallfisch’s Soundtrack
The haunting soundtrack of “It” was composed by Benjamin Wallfisch. Born in 1979, Wallfisch has composed music for several acclaimed films, including “Hidden Figures” and “Blade Runner 2049.” His score for “It” perfectly complements the film’s tense atmosphere and emotional moments, enhancing the cinematic experience.
Fascinating Trivia about “It”
Here are some intriguing tidbits about the novel and the movie:
- In the book, “It” manifests as various horrors based on the children’s individual fears. However, the movie primarily portrays “It” as Pennywise, the Dancing Clown, due to its universal appeal.
- Though it was a box office hit, “It Chapter One” wasn’t initially expected to succeed due to the R-rating and the genre’s niche appeal.
- “It Chapter One” and “It Chapter Two” were filmed back-to-back to maintain continuity and to accommodate the young cast’s growth.
Emulating the Losers’ Club: Cosplay Tips
For fans wishing to emulate their favorite characters from “It,” here are some cosplay tips:
- Bill Denbrough: Opt for a pair of jeans, a plain T-shirt, and a blue windbreaker. Don’t forget Bill’s signature bicycle, “Silver.”
- Ben Hanscom: Ben’s look is simple yet identifiable. A striped polo shirt, khaki shorts, and a pair of glasses will recreate his look perfectly.
Stephen King: The Master Storyteller
Stephen King, born in 1947, is an acclaimed author renowned for his contributions to the horror, supernatural fiction, and suspense genres. With over 60 novels under his belt, King’s vivid storytelling and ability to tap into the readers’ deepest fears have earned him a prominent place in modern literature.
A Glimpse into King’s Best Works
Here are five of Stephen King’s most celebrated works:
- “The Shining” (1977): This riveting tale of a family trapped in an isolated hotel, haunted by sinister forces, showcases King’s mastery over psychological horror.
- “Carrie” (1974): King’s debut novel, “Carrie,” tells the chilling story of a high school girl with telekinetic powers.
- “Misery” (1987): This tale of a deranged fan who holds her favorite author captive offers a terrifying exploration of obsession.
- “Pet Sematary” (1983): This novel delves into the horror that unfolds when the boundary between life and death is blurred.
- “The Stand” (1978): This post-apocalyptic saga is a riveting battle between good and evil in a world ravaged by a deadly virus.
Andy Muschietti: The Visionary Behind “It”
Andy Muschietti, the director of “It,” has garnered acclaim for his ability to adapt King’s works with authenticity and flair. Here are five other notable works by Muschietti:
- “Mama” (2013): This horror film explores the chilling aftermath when two young girls are found alone in the forest after being lost for five years.
- “Bird Box” (2018): This post-apocalyptic thriller follows a woman’s desperate journey to protect her children from an unseen entity.
- “Locke & Key” (2020): As an executive producer, Muschietti brings Joe Hill’s comic series to life in this Netflix series.
- “The Jaunt” (Upcoming): This upcoming project promises to be a thrilling adaptation of King’s short story of the same name.
- “The Time Machine” (Upcoming): This upcoming adaptation of H.G. Wells’ classic novel is highly anticipated.
Ten Movies to Watch If You Loved “It”
If “It” captivated your imagination, here are ten similar movies that delve into fear, friendship, and the supernatural:
- “Stranger Things” (TV Series)
- “A Nightmare on Elm Street”
- “The Conjuring”
- “Insidious”
- “Poltergeist”
- “The Babadook”
- “The Exorcist”
- “The Ring”
- “Sinister”
- “The Sixth Sense”
Book Club Discussion Points for “It”
Engage in meaningful discussions about “It” with these thought-provoking questions:
- How does the theme of fear shape the narrative?
- Discuss the significance of childhood innocence in the book.
- How is the notion of friendship depicted in the novel?
- Analyze the character development of the members of the Losers’ Club.
Ten Novels that Resonate with “It”
If “It” kept you hooked, these ten novels, exploring themes of fear, friendship, and the supernatural, are sure to captivate:
- “The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty
- “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson
- “Rosemary’s Baby” by Ira Levin
- “The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James
- “The Woman in Black” by Susan Hill
- “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
- “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
- “Dracula” by Bram Stoker
- “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson
- “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
Parental Advisory for “It”
“It” is rated R for intense sequences of horror violence, disturbing images, and strong language. The movie is not suitable for young viewers or those who may find certain scenes distressing.
Conclusion
Stephen King’s “It” and its cinematic adaptation offer a compelling exploration of fear, friendship, and the shadows of the past. Whether you choose to immerse in the captivating narrative of the novel or the visually arresting storytelling of the movie, the journey through the haunted lanes of Derry will leave an indelible impact on your psyche. So, delve into the enigmatic world of “It,” engage in stimulating discussions, or simply pay tribute to your favorite characters through cosplay. The world of “It” awaits you, promising a rollercoaster ride of fright, thrill, and enduring camaraderie.
