When the menacing clown Pennywise returns to town 27 years later, the united Losers Club must come together and conquer their deepest fears to destroy the powerful clown that ruined their lives.
I think it is unanimous when it comes to Stephen King’s work. Leading with an unforgiving collection of supernatural fiction, his work is unmatched, and filmmakers are constantly dying to get their hands on it. In the mist of all his work, there are a few projects that are far more superior than the rest and 1987’s “It” is one of them. The novel is exceptional and surprisingly every film adaption has lived up to its ranks, but due to the length, the 2017 film only had time to tell one half of the story.
Here’s the other half.
“It: Chapter Two” continues the horrific tale of the Losers team who were once terrorized by the evil clown known as Pennywise. Now deep into their adult lives, the clown is back for his 27-year killing spree and there are the only ones who can stop it.
I enjoyed parts of this film. As a whole, it was a bore fest. I have never dozed off in a horror flick before and unfortunately, “It Chapter Two” confirmed that there’s a first time for everything. First, we needed more Pennywise, less arguments. When a clown tortures a child, it is much more terrifying than a clown torturing an adult. In other words, the stakes should be raised. We lose the suspense because we are not so afraid of what can happen to the characters now that they are old enough to literally stomp the hell out of this clown. But does that happen? Not necessarily. We mostly undergo a series of “facing your fears”, that only seem to work for the first half of the film until it becomes a drawn-out comedy. We can thank Bill Hader for that.
Speaking of performances, the cast does make up for where pacing lacks. All the returning members of the losers were a joy, especially Bill Hader and Jessica Chastain. Casting certainly did not miss a beat because every member looks exactly like their younger counterpart. Even down to the mannerisms, the 27-year difference is unnoticeable; but arguably the CGI in the flashback sequences are. Nonetheless, everyone performed with ease.
All in all, “It: Chapter Two” is a flawed sequel that does not stand with its predecessor. With a few cuts here and there, it may have been a better film, but the length takes away all the thrill.
However, if you’re a fan of the first film, give it a shot.
