29 Facts About It Movie

The Origins of "It"

Stephen King's "It" has captivated audiences for decades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic horror story.

1. Stephen King wrote "It" in 1986. This novel quickly became a bestseller, solidifying King's reputation as a master of horror.

2. The story is set in the fictional town of Derry, Maine. King often uses Maine as a backdrop for his tales, drawing from his own experiences growing up there.

3. "It" spans over 1,000 pages. This makes it one of King's longest novels, packed with intricate details and subplots.

4. The character Pennywise is inspired by real-life clowns. King has mentioned that clowns have always been a source of fear for many, making them a perfect choice for a horror villain.

The 1990 Miniseries

Before the recent movies, "It" was adapted into a miniseries that left a lasting impression on viewers.

5. The 1990 miniseries starred Tim Curry as Pennywise. Curry's portrayal is still considered one of the most terrifying clown performances.

6. The miniseries was directed by Tommy Lee Wallace. Wallace is known for his work in the horror genre, including "Halloween III: Season of the Witch."

7. It aired in two parts on ABC. The miniseries format allowed for a more detailed adaptation of the lengthy novel.

8. The child actors in the miniseries were praised for their performances. Their portrayal of the Losers' Club brought the characters to life in a memorable way.

The 2017 and 2019 Films

The story of "It" was revived with two blockbuster films that introduced Pennywise to a new generation.

9. Bill Skarsgård played Pennywise in the 2017 and 2019 films. His unique take on the character brought a fresh, terrifying energy to the role.

10. Andy Muschietti directed both films. Muschietti's vision helped to modernize the story while staying true to the source material.

11. The first film focuses on the characters as children. This allowed for a deep exploration of their fears and friendships.

12. The second film follows the characters as adults. It shows how their childhood traumas continue to haunt them.

13. Both films were box office successes. They grossed over $1 billion combined, proving the enduring appeal of King's story.

Behind the Scenes

Creating the world of "It" involved many interesting behind-the-scenes details.

14. The iconic red balloon is a symbol of Pennywise. It appears throughout the films, signaling his presence.

15. The town of Port Hope, Ontario, was used as a filming location. Its quaint, historic look made it a perfect stand-in for Derry.

16. The makeup for Pennywise took hours to apply. Skarsgård's transformation into the clown was a meticulous process.

17. The child actors formed a close bond during filming. Their chemistry on screen was a result of genuine friendships off screen.

18. The filmmakers used practical effects whenever possible. This added a sense of realism to the horror elements.

Cultural Impact

"It" has left a significant mark on popular culture, influencing various aspects of entertainment.

19. Pennywise has become a Halloween staple. Many people dress up as the clown each year, showcasing his lasting impact.

20. The phrase "You'll float too" is widely recognized. This chilling line from the book and films has become iconic.

21. "It" has inspired numerous parodies and references. From TV shows to other movies, Pennywise often pops up in unexpected places.

22. The story has sparked discussions about childhood fears. Many fans relate to the themes of facing and overcoming personal demons.

Fun Facts

Here are some lighter, fun facts about "It" that you might not know.

23. Stephen King makes a cameo in the 2019 film. He appears as a shopkeeper, adding a fun Easter egg for fans.

24. The Losers' Club actors had a group chat. They stayed in touch long after filming, sharing memories and updates.

25. Bill Skarsgård can move his eyes independently. This creepy talent added to his eerie portrayal of Pennywise.

26. The 2017 film's trailer broke records. It became the most-watched trailer in a single day, with over 197 million views.

27. The book has been translated into multiple languages. Fans around the world can enjoy King's chilling tale.

28. There are several fan theories about the story. Some believe Pennywise is connected to other King novels, creating a shared universe.

29. "It" continues to inspire new adaptations. From stage plays to potential future films, the story's legacy lives on.

Final Thoughts on "It"

Stephen King's "It" isn't just a horror story; it's a cultural phenomenon. From Pennywise's terrifying presence to the deep bond of the Losers' Club, the novel and its adaptations have left a lasting impact. The 2017 and 2019 films brought new life to the story, introducing Pennywise to a new generation. Behind-the-scenes facts, like Bill Skarsgård's intense preparation for the role and the meticulous set designs, add layers to the movie's magic. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there's always something new to learn about "It". So next time you watch the film or read the book, remember these fascinating tidbits. They might just make your experience a bit richer.