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It

Play trailer Poster for It TV-14 1990 3h 12m Drama Fantasy Horror Mystery & Thriller Play Trailer Watchlist
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67% Tomatometer 24 Reviews 64% Popcornmeter 100,000+ Ratings
In 1960, seven preteen outcasts fight an evil demon that poses as a child-killing clown. Thirty years later, they reunite to stop the demon once and for all when it returns to their hometown.

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Critics Consensus

Though hampered by an uneven second half, It supplies a wealth of funhouse thrills and an idelible turn from Tim Curry as Pennywise.

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Critics Reviews

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John J. O'Connor New York Times The result, featuring a strong cast, is far better than any adaptation so far of a King book. Jan 16, 2020 Full Review Howard Rosenberg Los Angeles Times There is something very poignant and warming about these kids, branded as losers, closely bonding and banding together in "It" to battle not only the town bullies, but also the demonic Pennywise. Jan 16, 2020 Full Review Rick Kogan Chicago Tribune The four-hour package makes an eerie supernatural tale, spiced with substantial good-versus-evil subtext and musings on the power of friendship. Jan 16, 2020 Full Review Kristy Strouse Wonderfully Weird and Horrifying A story of fighting our personal fears and the enduring power of friendship, It is more than just a scary story, it's a vestibule into our psyche, and maybe, a little, into our hearts. Oct 14, 2021 Full Review Mike Massie Gone With The Twins The thrills are psychological rather than visually graphic, while the production value is limited. Rated: 4/10 Sep 14, 2020 Full Review Michael Hill Baltimore Sun This is a good, at times brilliant, always solid and well-done example of the horror/suspense genre. But be forewarned, the superb setup is better than the slightly disappointing payoff. Jan 16, 2020 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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Daniel C This movie should have better score than the remake cause this movie unlike the remake was very good. Tim Curry as Pennywise is legendary. The story is great and I really enjoyed the acting. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 03/25/25 Full Review Tommy D A very boring and at times embarrassing adaptation. Only Adam Curry's interpretation is remarkable but the rest can be thrown away Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 03/11/25 Full Review Yash B The 1990 version of Stephen King's "It" is pretty decent overall. I do feel the newest movie versions were better than this with updated special effects and more expanded storytelling. Similar to the movies, the first half of this story where it really shines, and I do feel the pacing is a bit more off in this miniseries version. I also don't think this one is really that scary but there has always been an element of dark comedy in this story. Overall, I do think the movies render this version a bit obsolete, but it's an interesting watch for those who are curious about a different adaptation. Rated 3 out of 5 stars 03/03/25 Full Review Kalin D Very boring and overrated. Too dull to be a kids movie and not enough interest to be for adults. Also, King leans very heavily on Nightmare on Elm Street in his writing. Rated 2 out of 5 stars 02/24/25 Full Review Ma. Catherine V I do like this film but i still prepared the ( 2017 ) version Rated 4 out of 5 stars 03/01/25 Full Review SkyRo P I’ve decided to write a comprehensive review of the horror movie “It,” based on Stephen King’s iconic work. The film, especially the 1990 version, is truly terrifying when you’re a kid. Growing up, this film left a lasting impression on me, and I recently revisited it because it has always lingered in my memory. The original film centers around a group of misfit kids—dubbed "the losers"—who band together to save the town of Derry from a sinister clown named Pennywise. Tim Curry’s portrayal of Pennywise is a blend of goofy and frightening, instilling a deep-seated fear of sewers and nightmares that would haunt me at bedtime. The character of Georgie plays a crucial, albeit brief, role that allows viewers to feel the immense grief and anguish Bill experiences following the brutal murder of his younger brother. Each of the kids brings their own unique dynamic to the story, and the 1990 version gives viewers the chance to grow with these characters. The modern adaptation of the first part of the film similarly explores their backgrounds, featuring a talented ensemble of young actors who bring a fresh perspective to the story for a new generation. Both films successfully captivated audiences, laying a strong foundation for the terrifying legend of Pennywise. However, the sequel—whether it be the second VHS in the 90s or the modern-day “Chapter Two”—takes a different approach. The second part of the story follows the adult versions of the kids as they reunite to confront the horrors of their past, despite their reluctance. The original 1990 film introduced viewers to the character of Annette O'Toole, adding depth to the narrative, even as some characters faced grim fates. However, the 90s sequel fell short in comparison to the first installment, lacking the same intensity and being somewhat corny, failing to deliver genuine scares. In contrast, today’s “It Chapter Two” felt like the weakest link. Despite featuring a star-studded cast, the film disappointingly failed to deliver the horror and suspense I was hoping for. Instead of offering thrilling twists and turns, it seemed to echo the shortcomings of the 1990 version's sequel, leaving much to be desired. The backstory of Pennywise is fascinating, and the documentary series delves into the creation of Tim Curry's chilling character, shedding light on the darker elements from Stephen King's book that were left out of the film. Many unsettling aspects of the narrative were omitted due to their disturbing nature, which only emphasizes the horror that Pennywise embodies. Ultimately, Pennywise deserves his place in the horror Hall of Fame as a truly terrifying figure. However, I can’t help but wish that future adaptations could do justice to the story and create a sequel that truly encapsulates the horror and depth of King’s original work. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/14/25 Full Review Read all reviews
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Movie Info

Synopsis In 1960, seven preteen outcasts fight an evil demon that poses as a child-killing clown. Thirty years later, they reunite to stop the demon once and for all when it returns to their hometown.
Director
Tommy Lee Wallace
Screenwriter
Lawrence D. Cohen, Tommy Lee Wallace, Stephen King
Production Co
Lorimar Productions
Rating
TV-14
Genre
Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery & Thriller
Original Language
English
Release Date (Streaming)
Sep 20, 2016
Runtime
3h 12m
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