If you’re diving into the deeper end of spooky season, there’s no way we could overlook the original It miniseries from 1990. Sure, it technically aired on TV, but this adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic novel still manages to send chills down your spine. And let’s be honest—Tim Curry’s portrayal of Pennywise is the stuff of nightmares.
The story follows a group of kids, known as The Losers Club, as they face off against an ancient, shape-shifting evil terrorizing their small town of Derry. Sound familiar? If you're a fan of Stranger Things, you’ll notice a similar formula—kids banding together to fight off a dark, otherworldly threat while navigating the ups and downs of friendship and growing up. Stephen King's influence on modern horror, including shows like Stranger Things, is undeniable.
Pennywise the Clown is the face of that terror, luring children to their doom with his creepy grin and balloons. But the horror doesn’t stop when they grow up. As adults, The Losers return to Derry to finish what they started, facing not only Pennywise but their darkest fears.
What makes the original It stand out is its mix of psychological horror and supernatural elements. Curry’s Pennywise isn’t just a scary clown—he’s a force of pure evil, and his performance has become iconic in the horror genre. While some effects might feel a bit dated compared to today’s standards, the eerie atmosphere and unsettling tension more than hold up.
If you’re a fan of classic horror and haven’t yet seen the original It, there’s no better time than now to revisit this creepy, nostalgic gem. Spooky season just wouldn’t be the same without Pennywise lurking in the shadows.
So, what would you do if you saw a clown in a storm drain?