This take on Stephen King's classic novel is both thrilling and different. I feel those two words accurately describe it. Initially when this movie was green lit , I wasn't sure about it. I didn't decide on giving it a try until a week or so before it's release. I just didn't feel like it was necessary. The 1990 version was perfectly fine. (Well, the first part anyways). I guess you can say this is the "IT" movie nobody knew they wanted!
Bill Skarsgard does an incredible job bringing life to Pennywise. He was born for this role! This Pennywise is even creepier than Tim Curry's version in more ways than one. Not only does he look super spooky, but his voice at times can give you the chills. I applaud his costume designers for the work they did with it and Bill for giving his all to this role.
The child actors in this movie did so well. Their performances seemed almost real and I feel they truly captured how children really do communicate with each other. It seemed genuine instead of faked like it often is in movies. Finn Wolfhard especially stood out to me. He did an exceptional job as Richie Tozier. He was hilarious and surprisingly crude for a child.
Derry seemed homely and the overall film looked great. The CGI didn't seem that obvious (which is hard to say about most horror films these days). Pennywise seemed genuinely terrifying at times and certifiably creepy when he was supposed to be. To be honest, I was not expecting the ending to that opening scene with Georgie. It took me by surprise and I found myself sitting there with wide eyes and a gaping mouth because I was so amazed by it. I knew then that i was in for something far different that i'd seen in the 1990 version.
The one thing I loved most about this film was how it brought to life classic scenes from the other movie. I was glad to see those nods, with twists of course. And hey, the kids actually floated! That's pretty sweet! Now the famous "You'll Float Too" line fits perfectly with the story. (Sorry, I HAD to include that minor spoiler because I am so excited about it lol). I am beyond ready for part two. I really hope it is MUCH better than the second part of the 1990 film. I'm sure it will be, though.
This is a good film. I highly recommend anyone on the fence about it to just go give it a try and see what you think. You may think you don't want to see it, like I did, but it'll change your mind. I've seen many ask if this version is better or worse than the original. I'd say, it's just as good or even better. They're sort of their own things, if that makes sense. Even though the story is basically the same, they are different from each other. You'd just have to see it to understand I guess. Tim Curry's Pennywise will always be great in it's own way and will still be loved for years to come, as will Bill Skarsgard's!
Overall, I give IT 4/5 Stars!