5 Things We Learned About 'It: Welcome to Derry' at NYCC
The highly anticipated 'It: Welcome to Derry' prequel series, based on the iconic Stephen King novel and recent movie franchise, has left fans eager for more. Here's a breakdown of the key insights revealed at the New York Comic Con panel, offering a glimpse into the intricate world of Derry and its dark secrets.
1. A Sneaky Good Reason to Exist
The series' creators, Andy and Barbara Muschietti, along with showrunners Jason Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane, had a clear vision for this prequel. They wanted to explore the origins of Pennywise, the ancient evil clown, and his impact on the fictional town of Derry, Maine. The project avoids the corporate mindset of churning out franchise fodder, ensuring a deep connection to Stephen King's original work. The cast, including Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, and James Remar, brings a star-studded feel to the series, promising a rich and immersive experience.
2. Unconventional Structure
'It: Welcome to Derry' takes a unique approach to storytelling. The first season will span one of Pennywise's 27-year cycles on Earth, with potential future seasons exploring different time periods. This structure allows for a deep dive into the characters' experiences and the evolution of Pennywise's presence in Derry. The writing team aims to adapt King's novel, leaving room for questions and a hidden narrative that unfolds as the story progresses.
3. Predicting Movie Connections
While the series is a prequel, fans won't see all the movie connections immediately. The show will touch on the space-bound backstory of Pennywise, with ancestral characters like Leroy and Charlotte Hanlon, the grandparents of Mike from the 'It' films. Die-hard fans will spot Easter eggs, but casual viewers might miss some references, adding an element of surprise and engagement.
4. Expanding Stephen King's Cameo
One intriguing aspect is the exploration of Rose, an Indigenous character from the 1960s timeline. Rose's ancestry plays a crucial role in the fight against Pennywise, and her connection to Stephen King's cameo in 'Chapter Two' is revealed. This character adds a new layer to the story, showcasing the diverse impact of King's imagination.
5. The Pennywise Tease
The panel's footage cleverly avoided showing Pennywise in his iconic clown form, a strategic move to build anticipation. The series plays a game of 'Jaws' with Pennywise, keeping audiences on edge. The question of when Pennywise will appear is a central mystery, adding suspense and excitement to the narrative. The creators emphasize the importance of this element, ensuring viewers remain engaged and eager for the series' release on October 26, 2025.
