The original 1990 TV miniseries adaptation of Stephen King’s IT clocks in at approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes (192 minutes). This runtime is split into two parts, each exploring different time periods in the story of the Losers’ Club.
A Closer Look at the Runtime
Understanding the length of the original IT requires acknowledging its miniseries format. Unlike the newer, feature-length films, the 1990 version presented the story across two longer episodes. This allowed for a more faithful, albeit arguably less visually polished, adaptation of King’s sprawling novel. The extended runtime offered more opportunities to develop characters and delve into the intricate plot.
Part 1: Childhood Fears
The first part primarily focuses on the Losers’ Club as children in 1960, confronting Pennywise the Dancing Clown for the first time in Derry, Maine. This segment explores their individual fears and the events that bind them together in their fight against the malevolent entity. The childhood timeline is crucial for establishing the emotional core of the story and the trauma that will shape their adult lives.
Part 2: Returning to Derry
The second part jumps forward to 1990, where the adult Losers’ Club must return to Derry to fulfill their childhood pact and confront Pennywise once more. This segment delves into their struggles to reconnect with their past selves and overcome the lasting effects of their encounter with IT decades earlier. The interplay between the past and present narratives adds depth and complexity to the overall story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Original IT Miniseries
Below are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the aspects surrounding the 1990 IT adaptation.
FAQ 1: Is the 1990 IT miniseries available in different versions with varying runtimes?
Generally, the standard runtime of the 1990 IT miniseries is consistently around 3 hours and 12 minutes (192 minutes). While some streaming platforms might list slightly different times due to opening credits or episode recaps, the core content remains the same. There are no known alternate cuts with significantly different lengths.
FAQ 2: How does the runtime of the 1990 IT compare to the 2017 and 2019 IT films?
The 2017 film, IT, has a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes (135 minutes). The 2019 film, IT: Chapter Two, is considerably longer, clocking in at around 2 hours and 49 minutes (169 minutes). Therefore, the original miniseries is significantly longer than both films, providing more time for character development and plot details.
FAQ 3: Does the longer runtime of the miniseries mean it’s a more faithful adaptation of the book?
While the miniseries benefits from its extended length allowing for more book content, it’s not necessarily a strictly more “faithful” adaptation. Both the miniseries and the newer films make alterations to the original Stephen King novel. However, the miniseries had more time to include smaller details and subplots that the films had to cut for brevity.
FAQ 4: Where can I watch the 1990 IT miniseries?
The 1990 IT miniseries is available on various streaming services, including HBO Max. It is also often available for purchase or rental on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, and Google Play Movies & TV. Check your local streaming provider for availability in your region.
FAQ 5: Is the 1990 IT miniseries rated appropriately for children?
The 1990 IT miniseries is generally rated TV-MA for mature audiences due to violence, language, and disturbing themes. It is not suitable for young children and parental guidance is strongly advised.
FAQ 6: Does the 1990 IT miniseries cover the entire story of Stephen King’s novel?
Yes, the 1990 IT miniseries covers the entire storyline of Stephen King’s novel, encompassing both the childhood and adulthood narratives of the Losers’ Club. The book is divided into two parts, and the miniseries follows that structure closely.
FAQ 7: Who played Pennywise in the 1990 IT miniseries?
Tim Curry famously portrayed Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 IT miniseries. His iconic performance is widely considered one of the most memorable depictions of the character and is often cited as a significant factor in the miniseries’ enduring popularity.
FAQ 8: Are there any deleted scenes or extended versions of the 1990 IT miniseries?
There are no widely available deleted scenes or extended versions of the 1990 IT miniseries. The version that originally aired on television remains the standard and most common version.
FAQ 9: How does the special effects quality of the 1990 IT miniseries compare to modern horror films?
Given its 1990 production date, the special effects quality of the IT miniseries is significantly less sophisticated than modern horror films. While some effects are effective, others may appear dated to contemporary viewers. However, the miniseries relies more on psychological horror and character development than on elaborate special effects.
FAQ 10: Is the 1990 IT miniseries considered a “classic” of the horror genre?
The 1990 IT miniseries holds a significant place in the history of television horror and is often considered a cult classic. Tim Curry’s performance as Pennywise is especially highly regarded, and the miniseries is remembered fondly by many who grew up watching it. Despite its age, it continues to be influential and frequently discussed within the horror community.
FAQ 11: How does the 1990 IT’s pacing compare to the 2017 and 2019 IT movies?
The 1990 miniseries, due to its longer runtime, has a slower, more deliberate pace compared to the faster-paced 2017 and 2019 films. This allows for more gradual character development and a deeper exploration of the town of Derry and its history. The films, on the other hand, are more focused on delivering scares and maintaining a higher level of intensity.
FAQ 12: Besides Pennywise, what are some other memorable aspects of the 1990 IT miniseries?
Beyond Tim Curry’s performance, other memorable aspects include the portrayal of the Losers’ Club both as children and adults, the exploration of childhood fears and trauma, and the themes of friendship, courage, and overcoming adversity. The miniseries also effectively captures the small-town atmosphere of Derry, contributing to its overall sense of unease and dread.