The 2017 film IT, a terrifying reimagining of Stephen King’s classic novel, contains approximately 29 instances of the word “fuck” and its variations. This number reflects the characters’ heightened emotional states, the dire circumstances they face, and the film’s overall gritty, realistic portrayal of childhood fears.
Examining the Profanity in Derry
The use of profanity in IT is far from arbitrary. It’s a conscious choice by the filmmakers to enhance the authenticity and impact of the narrative. Let’s delve deeper into how this language contributes to the film’s overall effect.
The Context of Profanity
IT depicts a group of children facing unimaginable horrors. Their vulnerability and the ever-present threat of Pennywise push them to their emotional limits. The use of strong language, particularly the F-word, serves as an emotional release valve, a way to express their fear, anger, and frustration in a situation where they feel powerless. Think about it: what would you say if a murderous clown was trying to eat you?
Profanity as a Reflection of Character
The frequency and manner in which characters use profanity also reveals their individual personalities. For instance, Richie Tozier, portrayed by Finn Wolfhard, is known for his foul-mouthed humor, which often serves as a defense mechanism against the terror surrounding him. Other characters, while not as overtly profane, still resort to strong language when confronted with Pennywise, demonstrating the universal impact of fear and trauma on their vocabulary.
The Impact on the Audience
The use of profanity in IT, while potentially offensive to some, contributes significantly to the film’s realism and intensity. It allows the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level, understanding their raw emotions and the gravity of their situation. It makes the stakes feel higher, the danger more real, and the characters more relatable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Profanity in IT
This section addresses common questions about the use of profanity in the film IT, offering further insights and context.
FAQ 1: Is the level of profanity accurate to the book?
Stephen King’s novel IT is known for its extensive use of profanity, accurately reflecting the language and mindset of children. The film adaptation, while reducing the overall volume, maintains a similar level of realism in its dialogue. The movie aims to capture the spirit of the novel, including its sometimes harsh language.
FAQ 2: Does the use of profanity affect the film’s rating?
Yes. The use of profanity, along with the film’s violence and horror elements, contributed to its R rating. This rating restricts audiences to those 17 years of age or older, or those accompanied by an adult.
FAQ 3: Does IT Chapter Two have a similar level of profanity?
IT Chapter Two maintains a similar level of profanity as the first film, approximately 30 instances of the F-word and its variations, reflecting the continued emotional intensity and character dynamics established in the original.
FAQ 4: Are there other instances of strong language besides the F-word?
While the F-word is the most prevalent profanity, IT also includes instances of other strong language, such as “shit,” “damn,” and variations thereof. These contribute to the film’s overall realistic and often crude dialogue.
FAQ 5: Was there any debate about reducing the profanity during production?
There was likely internal discussion during pre-production and production regarding the appropriate level of profanity. However, the filmmakers ultimately decided to maintain a level consistent with the tone and themes of the source material, albeit potentially toned down from the raw intensity of the novel.
FAQ 6: How does the profanity in IT compare to other horror films?
The level of profanity in IT is fairly consistent with other R-rated horror films. Many horror movies utilize strong language to heighten tension, shock the audience, and create a sense of realism. It’s a common trope in the genre.
FAQ 7: Does the use of profanity enhance or detract from the horror?
For many viewers, the profanity enhances the horror by making the characters more relatable and vulnerable. However, others may find it distracting or unnecessary. It’s a subjective matter based on individual preferences.
FAQ 8: Are there specific scenes with a high concentration of profanity?
Scenes involving intense confrontation with Pennywise, particularly those where the Losers’ Club are feeling most threatened, tend to feature a higher concentration of profanity. These moments reflect the characters’ desperation and fear.
FAQ 9: Is there a clean version of IT available?
While edited versions may exist on certain streaming platforms or for television broadcast, the theatrical release of IT is not available in a clean version. The profanity is an integral part of the film’s overall artistic vision.
FAQ 10: Did the actors ad-lib any of the profanity?
While the script likely contained much of the profanity, some of it may have been ad-libbed by the actors, particularly Finn Wolfhard, known for his improvisational skills. This adds to the natural and spontaneous feel of the dialogue.
FAQ 11: How has the profanity in IT been received by critics?
Critical reception to the profanity in IT has been mixed. Some critics praised it for adding realism, while others found it excessive or gratuitous. The overall critical consensus focused more on the film’s strengths in storytelling, visual effects, and performances.
FAQ 12: Does the profanity serve a purpose beyond shock value?
Yes. As discussed, the profanity in IT serves multiple purposes. It enhances the realism, reflects the characters’ emotional states, and contributes to the overall intensity and impact of the film. It’s not simply used for shock value; it’s an integral part of the narrative fabric.