The 2017 Adaptation of Stephen King’s “It”: A Visually Stunning but Disappointing Film
The highly anticipated new adaptation of Stephen King’s “It” has finally arrived, and while the movie is visually impressive, it falls short in terms of its content. The trailer alone was enough to send chills down your spine, with the perfectly terrifying portrayal of the clown and the spectacular costumes. There’s no denying the technical aspects of the recent adaptation that truly impressed me, from the impeccable camerawork, cinematography, and use of lighting and special effects to the breathtaking opening scene and the fitting soundtrack. And let’s not forget how incredibly captivating Pennywise looks in this film. Whenever he’s not on screen, you can’t help but wish he were, and when he finally appears, you can’t help but be in awe of him for the entire duration of his scenes.
What Went Wrong?
So, what exactly went wrong with director Andy Muschietti’s interpretation of one of the most beloved horror novels of all time? Some argue that the “Stand By Me meets Stranger Things” camaraderie within the group of characters takes away from the original charm of the novel. Others criticize the decision not to show the “Losers” as both kids and adults, as Stephen King had envisioned in his book. Many also point out that the frequent, bloody, and gory sequences become less frightening as the movie progresses, and the audience becomes desensitized to them. While I find all these arguments valid, in my opinion, the main issue lies in the lack of character development.
The Lack of Characterization
In the film, the audience is left questioning the monster’s identity, origin, and purpose. Who is this creature that takes the form of a clown? Why is it haunting Derry? Why does it target children? And what’s with its obsession with making people float? These questions, answered in detail in the novel, are only briefly touched upon in the movie, only to be vaguely dismissed in favor of a parade of stereotypes. The overweight mother, the abusive father, and the school bully are all clichéd characters that lack depth. The Losers, the group of protagonists, quickly form a bond within a few days, but we know very little about them as an audience. It’s no wonder that we eagerly await Pennywise’s appearances – he’s the only character we truly care about.
Bill SkarsgÃ¥rd’s portrayal of Pennywise is undeniably captivating, but even when he appears, the narrative falls short. Each time Pennywise abruptly shows up, the events that unfold are visually impressive, with elaborate settings, evolving and merging visions, and stunning special effects. However, as the audience, we can’t help but wish for more. We long to have a conversation with Pennywise, to understand him on a deeper level.
A Hope for the Sequel
I desperately wanted to enjoy “It.” As I sat in the cinema, I often wondered if I was missing something or if we were meant to sympathize with the clown. But I must admit that this rendition of “It” didn’t meet my expectations for a horror film, or any film for that matter. However, I am hopeful that the sequel will provide the coherence and depth that the first chapter lacked. Sometimes, a mediocre film sets the stage for a great sequel, and I hope a better second chapter is in the works. As we eagerly anticipate the continuation of the story, let’s keep our fingers crossed for a more satisfying experience with “It.”
FAQs
1. Is the 2017 adaptation of “It” faithful to Stephen King’s novel?
The adaptation takes some liberties with the source material, deviating from certain aspects of the book. While it captures the essence of King’s work, there are notable differences in character development and narrative choices.
2. Will the sequel address the unanswered questions from the first film?
It is highly likely that the sequel will delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding Pennywise, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the monster’s origins, motives, and the mythology of Derry.
3. How does Bill SkarsgÃ¥rd portray Pennywise compared to Tim Curry’s iconic performance?
Bill Skarsgard brings a fresh and unsettling interpretation to the character of Pennywise. While Tim Curry’s portrayal remains iconic, Skarsgard’s take on the clown is equally memorable and leaves a lasting impression.
4. What makes the novel “It” such a beloved horror story?
Stephen King’s “It” has captivated readers for decades with its masterful blend of horror, intrigue, and rich characterization. The novel’s exploration of childhood fears, the power of friendship, and the enduring battle against evil resonate deeply with audiences.
5. Are there any plans for future adaptations of Stephen King’s works?
Given Stephen King’s extensive body of work and the continued popularity of his stories, it is highly probable that we will see more adaptations in the future. Hollywood has shown a consistent interest in bringing King’s tales to life on the big and small screens.