The Muschietti siblings elevate the horror genre by weaving King’s mythology with pressing societal issues such as race and xenophobia, all without coming across as preachy. Welcome to Derry stands out in a crowded market, demonstrating that original content can still captivate an audience that seems desensitized to horror tropes.

The premise

Set in 1962, well before the events of the original It, Welcome to Derry delves into the origin of the darkness present in the town. A military base intends to tap into this evil for weaponization. However, everything spirals out of control when a boy goes missing. His friends, knowing the danger, realize they are the only ones who can confront the awakening evil, while adults remain oblivious, ensnared in the socio-economic struggles of their time.

The violence and gore of Stephen King’s world

Welcome to Derry pulls no punches when it comes to brutality. The violence, at times directed towards children, feels necessary and not gratuitous. It establishes a realistic tone that keeps viewers on edge from the very first moment, reminding them that the stakes are high and that no one—including the protagonists—is safe.

Respect for the source material is evident throughout the series. Welcome to Derry fleshes out pivotal moments from King’s work, exploring narratives he only brushed upon. The creators honor his blueprint while infusing their own unique perspectives. Iconic characters from King’s universe appear, but their integration feels thoughtful, never forced or exploitative.

Blending lore with real-world horror

A standout element of Welcome to Derry is how it intertwines the real-life horrors of 1960s America with its supernatural storyline, making social commentary feel organic rather than contrived. It offers vivid portrayals of racism, police brutality, and systemic inequality—all reflective of the era while expertly aligning with the underlying theme of fear.

The performances are equally compelling. The child actors shine, avoiding clichés. Each character is developed, feeling real and relatable. Adult performances, particularly from Chris Chalk and Jovan Adepo, add further depth. Chalk’s version of Dick Hallorann offers a fresh perspective, while Bill Skarsgård, as Pennywise, encapsulates pure horror. Director Andy Muschietti employs him sparingly, building tension by allowing the fear to simmer just beneath the surface.

Welcome to Derry stands as one of the most impressive adaptations of Stephen King’s expansive universe. Its distinct take positions it to be revered alongside classics like The Shining or Misery in due course. Will this reinterpretation of King’s work stick in your mind long after the credits roll?