Directed by: Andrés Muschietti

Rated: R

Runtime: 2:50

Review by: Livi Edmonson

 A direct sequel to Stephen King’s 2017 remake of “It,” “It Chapter Two” follows the return of the terrifying Pennywise the clown to Derry, Maine, 27 years later after being defeated by the Losers’ Club. The Losers’ Club is barely losers at this point in their life, seeing that they are all adults, most married and highly successful in their careers. However, member Mike Hanlon, who was unable to escape the town of Derry like the other members, calls up the crew members upon Pennywise’s return, knowing that only the togetherness of the group is enough to beat the evil clown once and for all. Still scarred both mentally and physically from the events of the ‘80s, the Losers are anxious and hesitant to return to Derry but end up doing so only to remain faithful to the pact they made in middle school and the amazing friendships they once had.

“It Chapter Two” may be an R-rated horror with many jumps, scares and lots and lots of gore, but boy, does it have a lot of heart — much like its predecessor. As someone who cannot bear to sit through a horror film, much less one rated R, I was extremely hesitant to see the first “It” in 2017, despite reading the novel and kind of knowing what would happen. However, instead of being horrified, I was amused by the laughter and love the film presented. Thus, I was still scared but slightly excited to see this sequel and can I just say that I am certainly glad I made my scaredy-cat-self go to the theater it is worth every Penny! (Pun-intended, of course.)

Perhaps what I loved the most about “It Chapter Two” was the amount of character growth and development in the film. Of course, the first movie is a “coming-of-age” film, but this sequel could be considered one even more so. When the beginning of the narrative narrows in on what the Losers have been doing with their life, though many of them are successful, none of them are truly happy with their lives, already showing a need for growth within their characters. Although by the end of the film and even at the film’s midpoint, the audience can already see a difference in the characters and their self-motives, adding even more depth to this already complex story. It is slightly difficult to go into detail with this said character growth without spoiling anything, so you will just have to go see the film for yourself. 

Because the characters have aged 27 years, older actors are now portraying the younger losers, which is another positive to the film — spectacular new actors! The kids are still great and in some of the flashback scenes. Finn Wolfhard of “Stranger Things” and Jack Dylan Grazer of “Shazam!” are still the liveliest of the bunch, just as the adult actors who play them are: Bill Hader and James Ransone, to be exact. I know I am always hard on the casting directors of all Hollywood blockbusters because indeed, casting is key, but I would like to declare that Bill Hader as the older version of Finn Wolfhard is the greatest casting choice I have seen made in a very, very long time. 

However, Bill Hader was not the only one who was a spectacular casting choice. I think all of the actors in this particular film have a ton to offer and do not disappoint. To name a few of the other stars, big names and critical darlings such as James McAvoy and Jessica Chastain also make the cut and their performances are also nothing short of brilliant. Whether it is the cast’s mannerisms, looks, or even just the things they say — these actors nail their portrayals of the grown-up Losers’ Club, and it is truly a treat for all who decide to take a bite. 

All in all, “It Chapter Two” is a film that encompasses three genres: drama, comedy, and horror. Thus, you can still enjoy the film even if you are not particularly a fan of scary movies. Although the film may look like a nightmare about a murderous clown with a red balloon and in a way, it kind of is, the film is a beautiful story about the greatest love of all: friendship. At the end of the day, Pennywise is a representation of bullies everywhere and the film’s underlying messages about the harm bullying will make audiences resonate and sympathize even more with the storylines and the characters. This is hands-down one of the best films I have seen all summer and fall so far, so if you are looking for a scary yet perfect film to make you feel young again, go see this one right now. If anything, go to cry for a solid 15 minutes straight after the film’s finale — because I did this as well! I give it a 9 out of 10.