Review of It – The Thing: Is the Film Worth Watching?

It – The Thing (2017) revitalized horror in theaters with its adaptation of the Stephen King classic. Directed by Andy Muschietti, the 2h12min film combines suspense and drama in a narrative about childhood and fear. Starring Bill Skarsgård as the iconic clown Pennywise, and a young cast led by Jaeden Martell and Finn Wolfhard, the production explores psychological horror in Derry, Maine. Released on September 7, 2017, it is available on Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max, or to rent on Apple TV, Google Play Movies and YouTube. In 2025, the film remains relevant, mixing scares and emotion. But will it stand the test of time? In this analysis, we break down successes and failures.

SEE ALSO

Captivating premise faithful to the original

The story follows the Losers’ Club, seven children from 1989 who face bullying and an ancient evil: Pennywise, an entity that feeds on children’s fear. The screenplay by Cary Joji Fukunaga and Chase Palmer adapts only the first half of the book, focusing on childhood, which allows for a cohesive rhythm. The narrative balances terror with friendship, showing how fear unites the boys against the killer clown.

This choice avoids the length of the 1,100-page novel, prioritizing iconic scenes such as the sewer and terrifying visions. The film explores themes such as trauma and loss, with flashbacks that humanize the characters. Critics praise its fidelity to King’s spirit, without sacrificing cinematic rhythm. However, some find the plot predictable for fans of the book, with twists that echo the original material too much.

Brilliant young cast and unforgettable Pennywise

The heart of the film beats in the child cast. Jaeden Martell, as Bill, conveys grief over the loss of his brother with devastating subtlety. Finn Wolfhard, the comic Richie, injects humor without forcing it, while Sophia Lillis, as Beverly, steals scenes with her vulnerable strength. The young losers form an authentic group, reflecting real dynamics of friendship and bullying.

Bill Skarsgård transforms Pennywise into a hypnotic villain. His clown alternates between childlike charm and pure evil, with eyes that freeze blood. The makeup and practical effects elevate his presence, surpassing Tim Curry’s 1990 version. Adults like Nicholas Hamilton, as the bully Henry, add layers of real menace. The ensemble delivers convincing performances, mixing horror and drama in a natural way.

Masterful direction by Muschietti

Andy Muschietti, de Mamabuilds an oppressive atmosphere masterfully. 80s Derry comes to life in gray, rainy tones, contrasting with the innocent summer of children. Scenes like the rain of blood or the red balloon create visual tension without exaggeration. The direction balances jump scares with psychological horror, avoiding gratuitousness.

Benjamin Wallfisch’s soundtrack amplifies the terror, with circus melodies that turn into nightmares. Visual effects, such as Pennywise’s illusions, impress with their realism, without relying on excessive CGI. Muschietti focuses on empathy for the victims, making the horror emotionally impactful. Still, some moments of gore may alienate sensitive viewers, and the ending leaves cliffhangers for the 2019 sequel.

Strengths and limitations

The successes include the balance between humor and horror, creating a terrifying adventure. Bullying is portrayed with rawness, echoing current mental health issues. Visually, it is a delight, with scenes that have become cultural memes, such as “You will float”. The message of collective overcoming resonates, especially for young people.

Limitations arise in predictability: scares follow formula, and the CGI in secondary monsters ages poorly. The exclusive focus on childhood leaves the arc incomplete without Part 2. For those looking for pure horror, it may lack innovation; It’s more coming-of-age scary than slasher.

Is it worth watching in 2025?

Sim, It – The Thing deserves replay. Its affordability makes it ideal for family marathons with reservations, or Halloween nights. With 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, it is praised for its effective scares and charismatic cast. On platforms like Prime Video, it’s easy to access, and rentals on Apple TV are valid for King fans.

If you like Stranger Things For the 80s nostalgia, you’ll love it. Avoid if you hate clowns or mild gore. It’s horror that entertains and moves, perfect for revisiting childhood fears. An evening session amplifies the impact.

It – The Thing is a triumph of modern horror, transforming King’s nightmare into vibrant cinema. Muschietti delivers memorable scares and heartbreak, with Skarsgård as the evil star. Despite predictability, his empathy and visuals elevate him. In 2025, it remains essential for fans of psychological horror. Watch, float and face your inner losers – it’s worth every scream.

Follow Séries Por Elas on Twitter and no Google News, and follow all our news!