The 2017 adaptation of Stephen King’s “IT” and its 2019 sequel, “IT: Chapter Two,” collectively grossed a staggering $1.173 billion worldwide, shattering horror movie records and solidifying their place in cinematic history. This phenomenal box office performance stemmed from a potent combination of nostalgia, exceptional casting, masterful direction, and the enduring power of Stephen King’s terrifying narrative.
Unpacking the Box Office Numbers
The success of “IT” (2017) and “IT: Chapter Two” wasn’t just about big numbers; it was about the impact those numbers had on the horror genre and the film industry as a whole. Let’s break down the key figures and the factors that contributed to their impressive performance.
“IT” (2017): A Horror Phenomenon
The first film, simply titled “IT,” achieved unprecedented success for a horror film. Its global gross reached $701.8 million against a relatively modest production budget of $35 million. This resulted in a staggering return on investment, making it one of the most profitable horror films of all time. The film resonated deeply with audiences due to several factors:
- Nostalgia: The story’s setting in the 1980s tapped into a wave of nostalgia, attracting viewers who grew up with the original novel or the 1990 miniseries.
- Compelling Characters: The “Losers’ Club” was brilliantly cast, with each character embodying relatable anxieties and vulnerabilities.
- Effective Horror: The film effectively blended jump scares with psychological horror, creating a genuinely terrifying experience.
- Strong Word-of-Mouth: Positive reviews and enthusiastic audience reactions fueled strong word-of-mouth, driving ticket sales.
“IT: Chapter Two” (2019): Continuing the Terror
While “IT: Chapter Two” didn’t quite reach the same heights as its predecessor, it still performed exceptionally well, grossing $472.6 million worldwide. This was achieved despite a slightly higher production budget of approximately $79 million. Several factors contributed to its continued success:
- Established Fanbase: The first film had already created a dedicated fanbase eager to see the conclusion of the story.
- Star Power: The casting of well-known actors like James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain, and Bill Hader in the adult roles added star power and appeal.
- Expansion of the Mythology: “Chapter Two” delved deeper into the mythology of Pennywise and the town of Derry, offering fans more of the story they loved.
- Completion of the Narrative: Audiences were invested in seeing the Losers’ Club finally confront and defeat Pennywise, providing a sense of closure.
FAQs: Deep Diving into the “IT” Box Office
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide further insights into the box office performance of “IT” and “IT: Chapter Two.”
1. What was the combined production budget for both “IT” movies?
The combined production budget for “IT” (2017) and “IT: Chapter Two” (2019) was approximately $114 million ($35 million for the first film and $79 million for the second). This relatively low budget, compared to their enormous box office gross, highlights the films’ exceptional profitability.
2. How did “IT” perform in comparison to other Stephen King adaptations?
“IT” (2017) stands as the highest-grossing Stephen King adaptation of all time, far surpassing other successful adaptations like “The Shining,” “The Green Mile,” and “Misery.” Its success set a new benchmark for King adaptations and revitalized interest in bringing his work to the big screen.
3. What impact did the R-rating have on the films’ box office performance?
The R-rating undoubtedly limited the potential audience for both films. However, the R-rating allowed the filmmakers to stay true to the source material and deliver a genuinely terrifying and unflinching horror experience, which ultimately resonated with audiences looking for a mature and intense horror film.
4. Were there any specific marketing strategies that contributed to the films’ success?
Yes, the marketing campaigns for both “IT” movies were highly effective. They utilized a combination of:
- Teaser trailers that focused on atmosphere and suspense rather than jump scares.
- Social media campaigns that encouraged audience interaction and built anticipation.
- Strategic partnerships with horror influencers and online communities.
- Early screenings and positive word-of-mouth buzz.
5. How did international markets contribute to the overall box office gross?
International markets played a significant role in the success of both “IT” movies. The films performed exceptionally well in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, and Brazil, demonstrating the universal appeal of Stephen King’s storytelling and the timeless themes of friendship and overcoming fear.
6. Did the timing of the releases affect the films’ performance?
Yes, the September release date for “IT” (2017) proved to be strategic. It capitalized on the lack of major blockbuster competition in the early fall and allowed the film to dominate the box office for several weeks. “IT: Chapter Two” followed a similar release strategy in September 2019.
7. What were some of the challenges faced in adapting “IT” for the big screen?
Adapting “IT” was a significant undertaking due to the novel’s immense length, complex narrative structure, and graphic content. The filmmakers had to make difficult choices about what to include and what to omit to create a cohesive and engaging cinematic experience. They successfully divided the story into two parts, focusing on the children’s encounter with Pennywise in the first film and their return as adults in the second.
8. How did the performance of the 1990 miniseries influence the films’ reception?
The 1990 miniseries, while popular in its time, had limitations in terms of special effects and budget. The films offered a more visually stunning and terrifying interpretation of the story, benefiting from advancements in filmmaking technology and a larger budget to bring Pennywise to life. The miniseries also primed audiences for the horror, making them more receptive to a cinematic adaptation.
9. Did the films’ success lead to a resurgence of interest in other Stephen King adaptations?
Absolutely. The box office success of “IT” revitalized interest in Stephen King’s work and paved the way for a wave of new adaptations, including “Pet Sematary,” “Doctor Sleep,” and “The Stand” miniseries. It demonstrated that King’s stories could still resonate with modern audiences and generate significant revenue.
10. What is the significance of “IT” in the history of horror cinema?
“IT” is significant for several reasons:
- It broke box office records for the horror genre.
- It demonstrated the enduring power of Stephen King’s storytelling.
- It revitalized interest in classic horror themes and tropes.
- It proved that well-made horror films can appeal to a broad audience.
11. Are there any plans for further “IT” related content?
While there are no immediate plans for a direct sequel to “IT: Chapter Two,” HBO Max is developing a prequel series titled “Welcome to Derry.” The series will explore the origins of Pennywise and the curse that plagues the town, further expanding the “IT” universe.
12. What is the legacy of “IT” and “IT: Chapter Two” for future horror films?
The “IT” films have set a new standard for big-budget horror adaptations. They have shown that horror films can be both commercially successful and critically acclaimed, and that strong storytelling, compelling characters, and effective scares are key ingredients for success. The success of “IT” has undoubtedly influenced the types of horror films being made today and the way they are marketed to audiences. They serve as a blueprint for future horror franchises looking to achieve similar levels of success.