IT Chapters One & Two: 15 Amazing Facts About the Movies
When Andy Muschietti’s IT hit theaters in 2017, it instantly became one of the most successful horror movies of all time. Adapting Stephen King’s epic 1986 novel, the film told the terrifying story of Pennywise the Dancing Clown and the Losers’ Club, splitting the narrative into two parts – the kids’ battle in IT (2017) and their adult return in IT Chapter Two (2019). With record-breaking box office numbers, haunting performances, and jaw-dropping effects, IT redefined horror for a new generation. Here are 20 fascinating facts about the two films that reveal how they scared their way into cinema history.
1) A Record-Breaking Horror Film
IT (2017) shattered records upon release. It grossed over $700 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing horror film in history. No other R-rated horror movie has come close to that level of box office dominance.
2) Bill Skarsgård Beat Tough Competition for Pennywise
Dozens of actors were considered for Pennywise, including Will Poulter and Tilda Swinton. Ultimately, Bill Skarsgård landed the role, bringing a mix of unsettling charm and terrifying menace that made his version unforgettable.
3) Pennywise’s Lazy Eye Was Real
One of Pennywise’s most disturbing traits is his wandering eye. That wasn’t CGI — Bill Skarsgård has the ability to move his eye independently, and director Andy Muschietti incorporated it into the character.
4) The Smile Was Natural Too
Skarsgård’s chilling clown smile, with his lower lip pulled down over his teeth, wasn’t makeup trickery. It’s something he can do naturally, and Muschietti used it to great effect.
5) The Child Actors Were Actually Scared
Skarsgård was kept away from the child actors during much of the shoot so their first on-screen encounters with Pennywise would feel genuine. Several kids admitted they were truly frightened when he appeared in full makeup.
6) The Project Took Years to Get Made
An adaptation of IT had been in development since the early 2000s. Cary Fukunaga was originally attached to direct but left due to creative differences. Andy Muschietti eventually took over and reshaped the vision into the two-part saga.
7) Filmed in Canada, Set in Maine
While the story takes place in the fictional town of Derry, Maine, filming was done in Ontario, Canada. Locations in Port Hope were transformed into the town of Derry, complete with new storefronts and signage.
8) The Bloodbath Scene Was Intense to Film
The bathroom scene where Beverly is drenched in blood used thousands of gallons of fake blood. Sophia Lillis described it as overwhelming and exhausting but also one of the most memorable moments of the shoot.
9) The Losers’ Club Bonded Like Family
The young cast members spent weeks together before filming, riding bikes, swimming, and hanging out to form real friendships. Their natural chemistry carried over into their performances on screen.
10) The Adults Were Chosen to Resemble the Kids
In IT Chapter Two, casting the adult Losers’ Club was a challenge. Each adult actor was chosen not just for talent but also for their resemblance to the younger cast. James Ransone (adult Eddie) and Jack Dylan Grazer (young Eddie) even share similar mannerisms.
11) Jessica Chastain Wanted to Be in It
Jessica Chastain, who played adult Beverly, had previously worked with Muschietti on Mama. She actively pursued the role, telling him she wanted to be part of the sequel years before it happened.
12) Chapter Two Was Longer Than Expected
IT Chapter Two runs nearly three hours, making it one of the longest major horror films ever released. Muschietti defended the length, saying the scale of the story required it.
13) Skarsgård Had Nightmares from the Role
Though he terrified millions, playing Pennywise took a toll on Skarsgård himself. He admitted to having unsettling dreams and occasional difficulty shaking off the character between films.
14) The Chinese Restaurant Scene Featured Real Reactions
In Chapter Two, the adult Losers face hallucinations during a dinner. The cast wasn’t told exactly what would happen with the monstrous food, so their disgusted reactions were genuine.
15) Cameos for Hardcore Fans
Stephen King himself appears in IT Chapter Two as a pawn shop owner, poking fun at his reputation. Director Andy Muschietti also has a cameo as a pharmacist.
The IT films weren’t just successful horror movies — they were cultural phenomena. With record-breaking box office numbers, unforgettable performances, and a terrifyingly iconic villain, they proved that Stephen King’s stories still have the power to haunt. Together, IT (2017) and IT Chapter Two form one of the most ambitious horror adaptations ever made, ensuring that Pennywise the Dancing Clown will continue to terrify audiences for years to come.
Watch the trailer for IT
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