IT: 6 Ways Bill Skarsgard Got Into Character
Bill Skarsgard's preparation for the iconic and terrifying role of Pennywise.
It has already scared its way into becoming a cultural sensation, shattering records and reviving the box office. Pennywise has returned right on schedule to spark fear into the small town of Derry and millions around the world.
Pennywise is one of horror's greatest terrors, originating in Stephen King's 1986 novel detailing the return of an ancient creature that takes the form of the Dancing Clown. Pennywise of course, is no clown at all, but rather a shape shifting horror that descended on Earth from the darkest corners of the universe, hunting on children by exploiting their fears.
This latest movie adaptation only depicts the kids' struggle, but the sequel will have them return as adults, and thankfully, we'll get to see more of Bill Skarsgard's stunning performance. He has already generated rave reviews and critical claim and more is definitely a good thing.
Skarsgard faced a challenge in becoming the evil clown creature, with the voice, movement, and look of Pennywise hard to nail down, but the 27-year-old Swedish actor pulled it off with aplomb with his demonic smile and bone-chilling voice.
In addition, Tim Curry's 1990 performance was exhilarating and hard to live up to, but with some preparation, Skarsgard brilliantly captured his own take on the dancing clown...
6. Creepy Movements
As if Pennywise's makeup, weapons, and hidden teeth aren't scary enough, Bill Skarsgard's performance included drooling, erratic running, leaps and, fittingly, dancing. This unique style of movement can be seen many times throughout the movie. Notably, after Freddie breaks his arm in the home of Pennywise, or "It," Skarsgard began to drool on the child during filming, creating an insanely creepy scene which illustrated the animalistic and sinister nature of the creature.
When Beverly Marsh is trapped in the lair of the demonic clown, It can be seen performing a signature dance, fulfilling the role of the dancing clown. An insane run straight into the camera is the last we see of bully Patrick Hock, who meets his end in the sewers while looking for his own victim. Pennywise is often seen leaping and transforming shape to murder his prey.
While a significant amount of work was done in post production CGI, a lot of Skarsgard's movements in the film were achieved with the help of a coach. In the same interview with Rolling Stone, Skarsgard explained that many of his runs were influenced by his brother's own crazy childish run.
"I don't know if you've seen kids run like this, but they move their arms way too fast, and it looks funny, really funny. And I just loved the way my brother ran as a kid. It was just out of sync. So I incorporated that into the character, and you get this really explosive effect."
This style of performing everyday activities amplified Skarsgard's portrayal, adding a twisted but fitting physicality.