At the 2025 Comic-Con event, attendees were treated to an exclusive first look at the opening 10 minutes of Welcome to Derry, the much-awaited prequel to It, the horror saga based on Stephen King's iconic novel. The series, which is set decades before the events of It, aims to explore the origins of Pennywise the Dancing Clown and the sinister history that haunts the fictional town of Derry, Maine.
Produced by HBO Max, Welcome to Derry is helmed by Andy Muschietti, who also directed the two-part It film series. The prequel dives deep into the mythology of the town and the ancient evil that resurfaces every 27 years. The footage screened at Comic-Con gave audiences a chilling taste of what lies ahead. Here are five major highlights from the screening:
- Introduction of New Characters:
The series introduces a fresh set of characters, mostly teenagers, who experience the eerie undercurrents of Derry long before the arrival of the Losers Club. Their stories are central to understanding the psychological and supernatural grip the town holds over its residents. - Historical Setting:
The series is set in the 1960s, providing a period-specific backdrop that adds to the overall eeriness. The time setting also ties into real-world social changes and tensions, making the horror feel more grounded and layered. - Early Signs of Pennywise:
While Pennywise does not appear fully in the first ten minutes, subtle references and creepy imagery make it clear that his presence is looming. Red balloons, faint laughter, and shadowy glimpses hint at the evil slowly awakening beneath Derry. - Atmospheric Cinematography:
The visuals showcased are dark, moody, and immersive. The series uses lighting and sound to build suspense rather than relying heavily on jump scares. This approach mirrors the tone of the original films while also creating a unique identity for the show. - Origins of the Curse:
A key part of the introduction teases the town's disturbing history, including references to mysterious disappearances and violent events that date back generations. This historical narrative aims to deepen the lore and give viewers insight into why Derry is a focal point for evil.
Fans and critics alike responded positively to the preview, praising its blend of psychological horror and faithful expansion of the It universe. The showrunners have hinted that the series will not only explore Pennywise's past but also how Derry itself may be connected to the creature’s cyclical return.
Welcome to Derry is expected to premiere in late 2025 on HBO Max, and anticipation continues to build. With its combination of strong direction, rich world-building, and compelling characters, the series could mark a new chapter in horror storytelling on television. For fans of Stephen King and the It films, Welcome to Derry promises to be a must-watch.
