IT: Welcome to Derry (2025) Spoiler Free Review
IT: Welcome to Derry proves to be far more than a simple expansion of a beloved horror franchise. Developed by Andy and Barbara Muschietti, Jason Fuchs, and with Bill Skarsgård returning as Pennywise, this HBO prequel series confidently deepens Stephen King’s universe while standing firmly on its own. Set across multiple timelines, 1908, 1935, and most prominently 1962 the show explores Derry’s long, cyclical history of violence and fear, adding emotional weight and narrative richness to what fans already know.
In 1962, a couple and their son move to Derry, Maine just as a young boy disappears. With their arrival, strange and violent events begin to unfold throughout the town.
Season synopsis
The series opens with an intense and unsettling first episode that immediately establishes tone and atmosphere. From the very beginning, it feels visually cohesive with IT: Chapter One (2017) and IT: Chapter Two (2019), making the transition from film to television seamless. The familiar look of Derry, combined with a strong sense of dread, makes it clear that this is the same cursed town just seen through a new lens. This episode also smartly lays the groundwork for the season’s two main narrative threads, setting up a structure that will continue to unfold and intertwine as the story progresses.
As the season moves into its second and third episodes, the storytelling becomes more layered. The show introduces new groups of kids and adults, carefully building connections between their experiences while expanding the town’s lore. The pacing remains steady and engaging, allowing the horror to simmer while curiosity grows. Episode three in particular pulls back slightly on overt scares to focus on mythology and world-building, making the eventual horror beats feel more earned and meaningful.
One of the series’ strengths is its patience. Rather than relying solely on constant shocks, IT: Welcome to Derry understands that fear is most effective when grounded in character and history. When the horror elements escalate later in the season, they hit harder because of the emotional investment already established. By the time the series reaches its final stretch, the storytelling becomes both intense and deeply moving. Episode seven, titled “The Black Spot” stands out as an emotional high point, balancing terror, tragedy, and character payoff in a way that feels quintessentially Stephen King.
The season finale delivers a satisfying sense of closure while clearly leaving room for future seasons. The final moments, particularly the epilogue, are sure to excite long-time fans without alienating newcomers. Even with some timeline adjustments from the source material, the series remains coherent and easy to follow, weaving its changes thoughtfully into the larger mythology.
Performances across the board are strong, especially from the young cast, who bring authenticity and vulnerability to their roles. The show also deserves praise for its opening credits and haunting theme, which perfectly set the mood. While the CGI in the early episodes occasionally falls short of expectations, it’s a minor blemish in an otherwise outstanding production.
Ultimately, IT: Welcome to Derry is a confident, emotional, and terrifying addition to Stephen King’s universe. It balances horror with social commentary, expands the lore in meaningful ways, and proves that Derry still has plenty of nightmares left to offer. A must-watch for King fans and horror lovers alike.
All episodes of IT: Welcome to Derry are now available on HBO MAX.