When you think of Stephen King’s “IT,” two images come to mind: Tim Curry’s iconic 1990 Pennywise and Bill Skarsgård’s haunting modern interpretation. But “IT: Welcome to Derry,” the new Max series, isn’t just reworking the clown’s old tricks. It is venturing deeper into Derry’s cursed history and offering fresh chills to fans who thought they had seen it all.
Set decades before the Losers’ Club ever encountered Pennywise in the films, “Welcome to Derry” serves as an origin story. The series focuses on the town of Derry, Maine, during the 1960s, exploring how evil took root long before the events of the 2017 and 2019 movies. While the original films centered on childhood trauma, shared friendship and face-to-face fear, the series widens the lens. It dives into systemic oppression, generational fear and the subtle ways horror creeps into everyday life.
Different Format, Familiar Haunts
Unlike the movies, which condensed King’s sprawling novel into two chapters, “Welcome to Derry” gives itself room to breathe. The episodic format builds atmosphere, letting viewers grow familiar with characters and their surroundings before fear takes hold. It is a slower burn that rewards close watching, especially with how it ties into Pennywise’s infamous 27-year cycle.
Even without Skarsgård’s eerie grin on-screen, the show keeps the presence of Pennywise alive. Shadows stretch a little too long. Laughter echoes in empty hallways. Balloons appear in unexpected places. The tone mirrors King’s storytelling in a way the movies could not. Every scene feels like something terrible is only a flicker away.
Easter Eggs
Longtime fans will find plenty of references. The series uses its timeline to weave in subtle nods to the earlier films and to King’s wider universe. The red balloon is not just a symbol. It serves as a guide, leading characters toward hidden horrors, just like with Georgie in the original story. Viewers will recognize glimpses of the Neibolt Street house and a mention of the Black Spot nightclub. There is even a quick reference to Bob Gray, Pennywise’s early alias.
One exciting easter egg links “Welcome to Derry” to another King story. A character speaks about missing children near a cursed well, hinting at “Castle Rock” connections and teasing the idea of a larger shared universe.
A Show for the Devoted
“IT: Welcome to Derry” does not aim to replace the movies that brought Pennywise into the modern era. Instead, it expands the terror and deepens the lore. The show reveals the roots of Derry’s curse with chilling precision. Whether you are hunting for easter eggs, craving answers, or simply love a good scare, this series is ready to pull you down into the sewers. Just don’t follow the balloon.
Are you watching the new series? Let @VALLEYMag know!
