HBO bets big on horror in 2025 with Welcome to Derry, the long-awaited prequel to It which promises to explore the dark past of the iconic Derry
A narrative that goes in reverse
The first season of Welcome to Derry is located at 1962only a few years before the events of En: Chapter One. Subsequent seasons will take viewers back in time, with the second exploratory 1935 and the third returning to 1908. According to Andy Muschietti, this reverse structure serves a purpose: “There’s a reason the story is told backwards.”
Inspired by interlude From the original novel by Stephen King, the series is based on Mike Hanlon’s investigative fragments on the tragic events that marked Derry and the sinister presence of Pennywise. “The interludes are chapters that reflect Mike Hanlon’s research… For 27 years he’s been trying to reveal what Pennywise is, what he’s done, and who’s seen him,” explains Muschietti.
The tragedies of Derry as the central axis
Each season will revolve around a catastrophic event related to Pennywise’s 27-year horror cycle. Among the most important events we remember the fire in Black Spotthe massacre of Bradley Band and the explosion of Kitchener Ironworks.
This devastating event, recounted by Will Hanlon, Mike’s father, recounts how a nightclub created by African-American airmen was burned down by a supremacist group. In the midst of the chaos, Pennywise manifested himself as a monstrous birdclaiming victims in the fire. A young Dick Halloran (The Shining One) was working in the club’s kitchen that fateful night.
In 1929, the citizens of Derry put an end to this band of outlaws with a brutal act in broad daylight. Although the city justified the attack, the fear and chaos were fueled by the influence of Pennywise, who has always played on the worst human instincts.
In 1906, an unexplained accident at the Kitchener factories killed 88 children and more than 100 people. This event marked the beginning of Pennywise’s 27-year slumber, cementing his horror legend in Derry.
A journey into the heart of Stephen King’s horror
The universe of It Without it it wouldn’t be the same Pennywisethe sinister clown who has terrified generations of readers and viewers. Although his most recognizable form is that of a clown, Welcome to Derry It promises to delve into his true nature: a cosmic entity that feeds on fear. This series may be the last opportunity to explore his origins and understand how he has manipulated the people of Derry for centuries.
The focus on historical tragedies also opens the door to comparisons with other iconic villains from film and literature. Although characters like Hannibal Lecter or Freddy Krueger have left their mark on horror, Pennywise stands out for its ability to adapt and its impact on the collective psyche. With an impeccable scenography and the talent of the Muschiettis, Welcome to Derry It could establish itself as one of the best representations of horror on the small screen.
A promising future, if terror triumphs
Warner Bros. has shown satisfaction with the outcome of the first season, and there is already interest in accelerating production of the second. If everything goes according to plan, Welcome to Derry will not only expand the universe of Itbut it will also delve into the roots of the fear that King captured in his novel.
With its mix of history, psychological horror and human tragedy, this series promises to be one of the most chilling productions of the year. Fans will soon be able to enjoy the blood, drama and mysteries surrounding Pennywise and the Curse of Derry.