During this time of year, the days grow short while the nights stretch long. For many, that darkness can feel unsettling or even chilling. Autumn has always carried a tradition of honoring the dead, and it’s no coincidence that so many horror movies, shows, and documentaries embrace the eerie atmosphere of October and November.
A few months ago, we received a new addition to Stephen King’s horror universe: IT: Welcome to Derry, created by Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs, who previously worked with King on the IT franchise. This series captures the spirit of Halloween while preserving the artistry of King’s original work. It’s important to note that it is not suitable for minors, as it contains graphic violence, gore, alcohol use, nudity, and other disturbing content. The series is available on platforms such as HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and Sling, with high-quality streaming and subtitles, though a subscription is required.
Now, let’s get into the review. Without revealing too much, I want to highlight the elements that truly stand out. One of the strongest aspects of Welcome to Derry is the evolution of Pennywise. The show explores the character’s origins in a deeper way than the films, addressing questions fans have had for years. It delivers the level of terror expected from this franchise, embracing the morbid, unsettling, and gory tone that defines the IT universe.
In this series, several long-debated mysteries surrounding Pennywise are finally answered. Interestingly, Pennywise does not appear immediately. Instead, the entity manifests in different forms, not just the clown we’re used to. The show presents Pennywise as something beyond human—an unnatural force that does not belong in our world.
A standout character is Rose, played by Kimberly Norris Guerrero. She is a Native American activist who understands Pennywise’s past and why the creature is unable to leave Derry. Rose plays a key role in revealing why the town is cursed, sharing that her ancestors were among the first victims of Pennywise’s massacres.
The first episode focuses on Derry’s history, showing what the town was like as Pennywise arrived during Earth’s early formation, lurking in darkness and waiting to begin its reign of terror. At first, it seems like we are meeting the main characters of the story, but that expectation quickly shifts—only one of the children survives, becoming central to the fight against Pennywise.
Although Pennywise is the core figure, the show does an excellent job developing its supporting characters. The creators introduce new faces who feel just as important as the antagonist, making it clear the series is not only about Pennywise. Every character has purpose; nothing feels accidental. This creates suspense, curiosity, and emotional investment throughout the series.
Some viewers may find certain episodes slow, but those quieter moments are intentional and essential. Horror is not only about constant adrenaline; it needs buildup, atmosphere, and emotional grounding. Without those slower sections, the story would lose depth and impact.
After finishing the series, I can say it offers one of the strongest horror backstories in recent years. It provides a thorough explanation of Pennywise’s origin, why the creature is trapped in Derry, and where it truly comes from. Even months after its release, IT: Welcome to Derry remains one of the standout horror productions of the past year, proving that the genre can still evolve rather than remain stuck in the past.
Edited by Camille Ng.
