There are two theatrical Stephen King IT movies: IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two (2019). These films are adaptations of the 1986 novel of the same name by Stephen King, focusing on the demonic entity Pennywise the Dancing Clown and the group of children, the Losers’ Club, who confront it.
The IT Cinematic Landscape: Beyond the Theatrical Releases
While many consider only the two recent theatrical releases as the “IT movies,” the story has been adapted for the screen in other formats, leading to some confusion. This article aims to provide a clear and concise overview of all adaptations, focusing primarily on the theatrical films but also acknowledging other versions for completeness.
A Legacy of Fear: The Original Miniseries
Before the recent cinematic releases, IT existed as a two-part 1990 miniseries broadcast on ABC. This adaptation, starring Tim Curry as Pennywise, was incredibly popular and left a lasting impact on pop culture, defining the image of Pennywise for an entire generation. While not a “movie” in the traditional sense, it’s crucial to understand its place in the IT adaptation history.
The Modern Cinematic Revival: IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two (2019)
The IT movie franchise, as we understand it today, consists of two films directed by Andy Muschietti. These movies split the story into two distinct parts: the children’s encounter with Pennywise in 1989 and their return as adults 27 years later. The success of these films reignited interest in Stephen King’s work and horror cinema in general.
Deep Dive: Why Only Two Theatrical Films Matter
The focus on the two theatrical films is primarily due to their scale, production value, and critical acclaim. These movies represent the most ambitious and visually stunning adaptation of IT to date. They also benefit from a modern sensibility, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters and themes present in King’s novel. Furthermore, the success of these films cemented them as the definitive cinematic representation of IT for many viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Stephen King’s IT
Here are some of the most common questions regarding the IT adaptations, answered with clarity and detail:
1. Are IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two based on the entire book?
Yes, the two movies collectively adapt the entire story of Stephen King’s IT. IT (2017) focuses on the Losers’ Club as children battling Pennywise in Derry, Maine, during the late 1980s. IT Chapter Two depicts the same characters returning as adults in 2016 to confront Pennywise once more. However, like any adaptation, there are some alterations and omissions from the source material.
2. Why was the story split into two movies?
Splitting the story allowed the filmmakers to fully explore both timelines of the book – the childhood and adulthood experiences of the Losers’ Club. Attempting to condense the entire novel into a single film would have likely resulted in significant cuts and compromises to the narrative. By dedicating a movie to each timeline, the filmmakers were able to maintain a closer adherence to the source material and delve deeper into the characters’ development and trauma.
3. Is the 1990 miniseries considered part of the movie franchise?
Technically, no. The 1990 miniseries is a separate adaptation produced for television. While it shares the same source material and characters, it is not considered part of the same cinematic continuity as the 2017 and 2019 films. It is its own distinct entity within the broader IT media landscape.
4. Is there going to be an IT Chapter Three?
Currently, there are no concrete plans for an IT Chapter Three. The director and producers have stated that the two movies cover the complete story as presented in Stephen King’s novel. While the world of IT is rich and could potentially be expanded upon, there is no official confirmation of a sequel or spin-off. Some rumblings of a prequel focusing on Pennywise’s origins have circulated, but nothing definitive has been announced.
5. Who played Pennywise in the IT movies?
In IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two (2019), the iconic role of Pennywise the Dancing Clown was brilliantly portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. His performance brought a new level of chilling intensity and disturbing physicality to the character, solidifying his place as a memorable and terrifying iteration of Pennywise. Tim Curry famously played Pennywise in the 1990 miniseries.
6. Are the IT movies scary?
Yes, the IT movies are generally considered to be scary, featuring elements of psychological horror, jump scares, and grotesque imagery. They explore themes of childhood trauma, fear, and the power of friendship. However, the level of scariness is subjective and depends on individual tolerances. Many viewers find them genuinely frightening, while others may find them more suspenseful than outright terrifying.
7. What is IT supposed to be?
In the novel, IT is an ancient, shapeshifting evil entity that has existed for centuries. It preys on the fears of children and adults, taking on the form of their deepest anxieties. Pennywise the Dancing Clown is merely one of the many forms IT assumes. The true nature of IT is often described as an interdimensional being or a force of chaos. The novel delves into more cosmic and abstract concepts that the movies only touch upon.
8. Where does the story of IT take place?
The story of IT is primarily set in the fictional town of Derry, Maine. Derry is a recurring location in Stephen King’s works and is characterized by a history of violence and tragedy, making it a fertile ground for IT‘s malevolent influence. The town itself is almost a character, contributing to the overall atmosphere of dread and unease.
9. Are the IT movies suitable for children?
No, the IT movies are not suitable for children. They contain graphic violence, disturbing imagery, strong language, and mature themes that are inappropriate for younger audiences. The films are generally rated R for mature content and should be viewed by adults only.
10. Are there any deleted scenes from the IT movies worth watching?
Yes, there are several deleted scenes from both IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two that offer further insight into the characters and storylines. Many of these scenes are available on the home video releases and online. Some notable deleted scenes include more in-depth explorations of the Losers’ personal traumas and additional encounters with Pennywise.
11. How faithful are the IT movies to the book?
While the IT movies strive to remain faithful to the source material, they do take liberties with certain aspects of the story. Some characters’ storylines are altered or condensed, and certain plot points are omitted for pacing and cinematic reasons. However, the core themes, characters, and overall narrative arc remain largely intact. The movies capture the essence of Stephen King’s vision while adapting it for a modern audience.
12. Where can I watch the IT movies?
IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two are widely available on various streaming platforms, for purchase on digital stores like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV, and on physical media such as Blu-ray and DVD. Availability may vary depending on your region and current streaming service subscriptions. It’s always a good idea to check your local listings or streaming services for the most up-to-date information.