The on-screen universe of Stephen King’s IT has been quiet since 2019, but was brought back full force in 2025 with the HBO prequel series IT: Welcome to Derry, set 27 years before the first film. Eight episodes packed with horror, character lore and social commentary on 1960s America made for a thrilling addition to the history of Derry, Maine.
The bizarrely grotesque, disturbing opening scene sets the tone for the series’ most horrifying and graphic moments; by the end of the first episode alone it seems like Pennywise was on easy-mode for the movies. The theme song is aptly creepy – a feeling exacerbated by certain camera shots and atmosphere building. Its aspect of horror doesn’t rely on jumpscares, but the psychological torture of Pennywise’s ever-threatening presence and ability to prey on one’s fears. Though its face isn’t shown until the fifth episode – a reveal that was perfectly timed for a shocked, but equally hyped response – the awareness that he lurks in Derry is chilling.
Violence in the series does not come solely from the clown, but from humans alike. The hateful attack on the Black Spot was mentioned in the movies, but seeing it come about was gut-wrenching and darkly realistic for a supernatural story – a catastrophe caused by humans for Pennywise to build upon. The setting of the 60s was simultaneously fun and uncomfortable. Andy Muschetti has never been one to ignore social context in favour of horror; issues of racism, homophobia and abuse all acknowledged in his IT franchise.
While the main cast aren’t as tight-knit as the original losers club, they make for enjoyable characters to watch. Margie and Rich are absolute sweethearts, and Clara Stack (Lily Bainbridge) has a bright future in horror movies ahead of her. The series would not have been the same without Bill Skarsgard reprising his role as Pennywise – a performance he yet again excels at, capturing the entity’s power, scariness and characteristic dark humour.
There is an abundance of noteworthy characters in the series. Dick Halloren, existing in Stephen King’s universe already as part of The Shining, was a highlight. Charlotte Hanlon is a powerhouse. Ingrid was an interesting portrayal of being morally corrupted by love – sacrificing lives of others to see the face of her father. Backstory of Ingrid and Bob Gray was briefly touched upon in IT: Chapter Two (2019), but Welcome to Derry built lore around it that added to the impact of Ingrid’s interaction with Beverly in the second film upon rewatch.
Speaking of the past films – certain cameos and links to the original cast can be accused of unnecessary fan-service, but I, as a fan, was very happy to see them again. For many of the people watching Welcome to Derry in 2025, IT (2017) is oddly nostalgic. Despite its horror genre, the core of the IT universe has always been the relationships, as Margie repeats the beloved book quote in a deeply emotional moment: “No good friends, no bad friends; only people you want, need to be with. People who build their houses in your heart.”
Ultimately, IT: Welcome to Derry is a fantastic prequel series to the movies, equalling and at times surpassing their content. The gore and character casualties reach new levels, keeping stakes high throughout. The only occasional lulls come from the military sub-plot, but the story remains well-paced and engaging. It’s twisted and tense. And even more fun for the old fans – who are finally old enough to enjoy Pennywise nightmare-free.
Image credits – The Movie DB
