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With an unexpected early release of its second episode, 'It: Welcome to Derry,' the much awaited prequel series to the 'It' films, is ramping up the horror just in time for Halloween shivers. The return of the evil clown and the new 1960s setting of the show, which retraces the beginnings of the horrors in the town of Derry, Maine, have already generated interest. Since Episode 1 debuted in late October, the choice to release Episode 2 on Halloween night allows viewers to experience more terrifying secrets ahead of schedule.
The Origin Story Expands: Revisiting Derry's Dark Past
'It: Welcome to Derry' acts as a chilling prequel to Stephen King's world, tracing the roots of the evil that has terrorized generations in the fictional Maine town. Set in the early 1960s, decades before the Losers Club faced Pennywise, the show dives into mysterious disappearances, strange sightings, and the gradual spread of fear among Derry's residents.
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Image Courtesy: CNN
Andy and Barbara Muschietti, the siblings who created the 2017 and 2019 movie adaptations, are back at the creative helm, making sure the series maintains the frightful tone that fans have adored. Joining Bill Skarsgård in his renowned role as Pennywise are Chris Chalk, Jovan Adepo, and Taylour Paige in new characters that relate to the town's sinister lore.
Additionally, the prequel promises to provide viewers with a terrifying look into Derry's innermost thoughts and feelings by shedding more light on how Pennywise's evil initially manifested.
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Image Courtesy: Entertainment Weekly
Release Update: Episode 2 Drops on Halloween
Originally, the release schedule for 'It: Welcome to Derry' had Episode 1 arriving on 26th October, followed by Episode 2 on 2nd November. However, HBO Max revealed that Episode 2 would now be accessible early on Friday, 31st October at 12:00 a.m. PT / 3:00 a.m. ET in a sinister twist to celebrate Halloween. The traditional Sunday broadcast on HBO remains intact: Episode 2 will air on Sunday, 2nd November at 9:00 p.m.
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Image Courtesy: The Wrap
Subsequent episodes will continue to be released weekly each Sunday, leading up to the season finale in mid-December. This well-timed early release intensifies the spooky atmosphere and encourages viewers to check in for additional chills as soon as possible.
A Look Back: The Success of 'It' on the Big Screen
Before the prequel series, the 'It' films dominated the box office and revitalized the horror genre for a new generation. 'It' (2017), directed by Andy Muschietti, broke records as the highest-grossing horror film of all time and became a cultural phenomenon, earning over $700 million worldwide. The Losers Club's adult reunification to face Pennywise again was the subject of its 2019 sequel, 'It: Chapter Two,' which brought in over $470 million worldwide.
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Image Courtesy: Forbes
Both movies were praised for their combination of psychological horror, nostalgia, and strong acting, particularly Bill Skarsgård's spine-tingling performance as Pennywise. 'It: Welcome to Derry,' which now seeks to deepen the mythos and delve into the horrifying beginnings of King's most famous creature, was made possible by the films' success and by the support of its enduring fan base. With its early Halloween release, Episode 2 promises to keep that legacy alive—and even more terrifying.
