Stephen King is proving time and time again that he still has a firm grip on horror fans and the culture at large. So much so that the film adaptation of his masterful horror novel IT is now the most-watched horror movie on HBO’s streaming service, Max. And just in time for spooky season, no less. Even though it’s been more than a few years since its theatrical release, IT: Chapter 1 has once again risen to the top, reminding viewers why Pennywise the Clown still haunts their nightmares.
Directed by Andy Muschietti, IT: Chapter 1 originally landed in theaters back in 2017. Now, IT‘s back in the spotlight, this time on Max, where it’s currently the platform’s most popular horror film. This sudden surge in viewership comes just in time for the Halloween season when horror movies are at the top of everyone’s watchlist. Plus, Stephen King is having a bit of a moment, with fans eager to dive into his many adaptations, from Doctor Sleep to Salem’s Lot.
Of course, much of the credit for the movie’s success has to go to Bill Skarsgård’s terrifying portrayal of Pennywise (see above). The creepy clown has become one of the most iconic horror villains of the modern era, with his chilling grin and unpredictable nature keeping viewers on edge. For many fans, revisiting both IT movies is a must during spooky season, and Pennywise’s terror is just as effective the second (or third) time around.
Check out the trailer for Stephen King’s IT: Chatper 1
Max’s decision to support IT: Chapter 1 as part of its horror offerings this October has paid off, bringing the film back into the spotlight. With Halloween just around the corner, it’s likely the movie will continue to dominate the horror section for the rest of the month. One thing’s for sure—Stephen King’s stories still pack a punch, and IT: Chapter 1 is proof that Pennywise isn’t done terrifying audiences just yet.
Pennywise is back, back, back again next year when the prequel series IT: Welcome to Derry lands on the streamer. Word has it that Bill Skarsgård will be back in action as Pennywise in a story that unfurls the early days of Derry, Maine. Our mysterious Stephen King correspondent, Lilja, has given us a glimpse of what’s to come.
Check out his post about it here:
Will you be revisiting IT: Chapter 1 on Max this weekend after clocking in time with their brand new remake of Salem’s Lot? Let us know on Twitter/X via @DreadCentral. We are always around to float… flooooattttttt….. FLOATTTT GEORGIE!!!!!!
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