HBO’s ‘It: Welcome to Derry’ Prepares for Halloween Premiere

Los Angeles, CA — HBO‘s much-anticipated prequel series, ‘It: Welcome to Derry‘, premieres this Sunday, October 26, and critics’ early reviews are stirring excitement among fans of Stephen King‘s universe.

The series takes place in the fictional town of Derry, Maine, 27 years before the events of the 2017 film. Focused on Leroy Hanlon, portrayed by Jovan Adepo, the narrative follows his family as they unearth the sinister mysteries lurking beneath Derry’s quaint facade.

Initial reviews describe the show as both chilling and uneven. Critics appreciate its effort to expand the lore surrounding the iconic character, Pennywise, notorious for haunting children in King’s tale. The show promises a mix of horror while tackling deeper social themes relevant today.

Some reviews praise the craftsmanship of the series, noting exceptional performances from its young cast, particularly Clara Stack as Lilly and Blake Cameron as Will. Yet, there are also concerns that the show leans too heavily on CGI and lacks the authenticity of its film predecessors.

Variety mentions that the new series allows for creative storytelling, with characters facing not only supernatural fears but also confronting mid-century societal issues. Additionally, many critics recognize the effective moment-to-moment scares that could resonate with audiences beyond those familiar with King’s works.

A review in the Irish Independent highlights the series’ unflinching approach to horror, suggesting it is not for the faint-hearted. Some critics note that the balance between horror and storytelling could falter due to its busy narrative structure, but maintain that the show exhibits a dedication to exploring human fears in its various forms.

Overall, ‘It: Welcome to Derry’ is shaping up to be a compelling entry for both horror aficionados and Stephen King enthusiasts when it premieres this weekend.