The highly anticipated HBO series, “It: Welcome to Derry,” is set to premiere in October 2023, further expanding the cinematic universe of Stephen King. This prequel to the iconic “It” films aims to explore the chilling origins of Pennywise, the shape-shifting clown that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The series promises to delve into the terror and innocence of childhood, themes that are prevalent in King’s extensive body of work.
The new series builds on the legacy of King’s original novel, first published in 1986, which has been adapted into film twice—once as a two-part miniseries featuring Tim Curry in 1990 and later as a two-part film series starring Bill Skarsgård in 2017 and 2019. Generations have felt the dread associated with the iconic symbols of rain jackets and red balloons, making the decision to create a prequel series a natural progression.
Connections to King’s Broader Universe
A teaser trailer for “Welcome to Derry,” released on July 27, reveals a fascinating connection to another of King’s renowned works. At around 57 seconds into the trailer, viewers can spot a bus for Shawshank State Prison, a nod to King’s novella “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption.” This inclusion hints that the series is not only intertwined with the “It” films but also connects to a wider array of King’s narratives.
King’s storytelling is known for its intricate web of interconnected characters and settings. References to the town of Derry and Pennywise appear in several of his works, including “Castle Rock,” “The Dark Tower,” and “Carrie.” This interconnectedness has been a focal point of discussion among fans and scholars alike, particularly since the publication of the book “The Stephen King Universe” in 2001.
As the series prepares for its debut, the anticipation is palpable among fans. At Comic-Con on July 27, HBO provided an exclusive 10-minute preview of the show, featuring scenes set in 1962. The footage follows a young boy who sneaks into a movie theater, only to encounter the sinister family that is, in reality, the shape-shifting entity known as “It.” This narrative echoes the original novel’s opening, which presents a harrowing death at the hands of Pennywise.
What to Expect from the Series
The eight-episode series “It: Welcome to Derry” promises to capture the essence of King’s work, focusing on the juxtaposition of childhood innocence and the horrors that lurk beneath the surface. The show aims to build tension and evoke fear while exploring the psychological complexities of its characters.
As fans await the series’ release, the excitement surrounding its potential to deepen the lore of King’s universe continues to grow. The first teaser trailer, released in May, has already set the stage for what many hope will be a thrilling addition to the Stephen King legacy.
With its premiere scheduled for October 2023, “It: Welcome to Derry” is poised to attract both long-time fans of Stephen King and new viewers eager to experience the chilling tales of Derry, Maine. The series stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of King’s work and the fascination it holds for audiences around the world.
