The highly anticipated series “Welcome to Derry” premiered on HBO on October 26, 2025. This new show serves as a prequel to the successful adaptations of Stephen King’s “It.” Directed by Andy Muschietti, who helmed the acclaimed film trilogy, the series delves into the backstory of the chilling events in Derry, Maine, highlighting the sinister presence of Pennywise.
Creative Team Behind “Welcome to Derry”
The series benefits from the expertise of a skilled creative team. In addition to Muschietti, producer Barbara Muschietti and co-producer Jason Fuchs join Brad Caleb Kane as co-showrunners. This collaboration aims to leverage untapped material from King’s original novel.
Exploration of Derry’s Dark History
The storyline explores the historical cycles of terror in Derry, where Pennywise’s hunger for fear emerges predictably every 27 years, leading to child disappearances and mass casualties. The first season notably shifts the timeline from the originally set 1930s to the civil rights movement of the 1960s, adding dramatic depth and relevance.
Dual Narratives: Children and Adults
“Welcome to Derry” follows two parallel storylines. The first centers on the children confronting Pennywise’s malevolent influence. The second follows Major Leroy Hanlon, portrayed by Jovan Adepo, who represents a new layer of tension within the community.
- Kids’ Storyline: Focused on their initial fears and encounters with Pennywise.
- Adults’ Storyline: Hanlon’s experiences highlight racial tensions and supernatural elements in Derry.
Creepy Encounters and Suspenseful Moments
The premiere episode is charged with suspense, especially during the children’s encounters with Pennywise. A standout moment occurs when Matty Clements, a young boy, unknowingly hitches a ride with a menacing family, leading to a tense and darkly narrated climax.
Visual and Thematic Elements
The show’s production design and costumes effectively capture the era, enhancing the haunting atmosphere of Derry. Muschietti’s direction emphasizes surreal and psychologically oppressive experiences, maintaining the essence of horror central to King’s narratives.
Pennywise’s Ominous Presence
Interestingly, Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise is limited in the premiere. Instead, the episode focuses on the buildup of tension around the character. This choice keeps the iconic villain as a looming presence rather than showcasing him extensively.
Character Dynamics and Development
The interactions among the younger characters reveal deep psychological undercurrents. For instance, the aftermath of Matty’s disappearance affects his classmates—Lilly, Teddie, and Phil—who grapple with guilt and missed opportunities for connection. Lilly, in particular, stands out as a compelling character as she navigates personal grief alongside the community’s turmoil.
Conclusion
Overall, the premiere of “Welcome to Derry” impresses with its rich storytelling and psychological depth. The series is poised to captivate audiences as it unfolds the chilling narrative of Derry’s dark legacy and the relentless terror of Pennywise.
