8 Things IT Chapter 2 Must Do To Succeed
1. Don't Explore Pennywise's "True Form" Too Much
Even in spite of the shapeshifting clown that can grow spider-legs and turn into a leper or a mummy, It: Chapter One was a relatively grounded movie, rooted in believable human drama and conflict.
However - in some places - the same cannot be said of the novel. At one point, the kids discover that It isn't a werewolf, or a clown, or a mummy, but is in fact a huge collection of orange lights referred to as "Deadlights". Oh, and there's also a turtle that created the universe. Yup.
But this... is a little silly, and the entire concept of the Deadlights and Maturin (the turtle) just isn't something that would fly with today's audience. The whole thing feels cheesy and dated, and for an epic two-movie journey to come down to a face-off between some lights and the Losers - with a turtle involved - would honestly feel like a joke.
Andy Muschietti has publicly stated that he wants to explore the more mystical aspects of King's novel in the sequel, but since the next movie hasn't even been written yet, we hope that changes.
And if he does decide to include them, there is a way to incorporate these elements correctly. We actually see the Deadlights in Chapter One (and Maturin, as a LEGO toy in Bill's house), when Pennywise captures Beverly, opens his mouth and reveals them at the back of his throat.
But, crucially, the film didn't make a big deal out of them. It was a cool little nod for fans, but it's not something that needed to be explored in-depth. One of the biggest criticisms aimed at Chapter One is that it wasn't that scary, and reducing It to a bunch of lights would only ensure Chapter Two follows suit.
It: Chapter Two - how do you want it to play out? Sound off in the comments below!