I don't even know where to begin. Bloody brilliant. It was overwhelming even with the huge reception it was given. For those who don't know much on the story, the quiet town of Derry has a mysterious thing, It, that comes out every 27 years to feed on children. The Stephen King novel takes place both in the 80s and 27 years later so we see the story from the character's perspective as both kids and adults. This film, unlike the 1990's mini series, just covers the children's side over the course of a year.
So It is a horror movie, now is it scary? Yes, yes it is and I am so happy to say that. The creature takes the form of whatever you fear the most, for the most part it's Pennywise the iconic clown played by Bill Skarsgård. The film plays on so many fears and phobias that no one is safe. It's fun. There's multiple jumps but never cheap ones. You're constantly tense and on edge. The suspense was incredible, every other scene was a build up to something else, there was a constant level of foreboding at every corner. For me that happened almost instantly, if you know anything about the story, little Georgie in his raincoat with his paper boat makes you uneasy to think about. No spoilers but there's a scene where Pennywise chases someone up the stairs and I got that same feeling I did as a kid when I'd run up the stairs in the dark because I thought something was gonna snap at my ankles. The scares you were bracing yourself for were great, the surprise ones were great too.
Lets talk Pennywise. Skarsgård kills it, young guy with a mixture of things under his belt is definitely gonna be a common name after this. His Pennywise starts childish and inoffensive yet creepy and builds to being completely menacing. His look constantly makes you uneasy, he drools talking to the children he wants to eat. His eyes drift in and out of focus and often in different directions. His movements are fantastically intertwined with visual effects and camera work. He runs with speed and aggression and the camera shudders in response. His body moves unworldly, twists and revolts and transforms at will. Absolutely fascinating to watch. Unless you're scared of clowns you'll find that every second he's on screen you can't help but stare at every inch of him. Incredible. Calling it now, number one Halloween costume 2018.
Let's get it out the way the kids are all adorable. Finn Wolfhard we already know and love from Netflix Stranger Things (2016), huge career ahead of him. Naturally funny as Richie, definitely showed the friendship with the others. Jack Dylan Grazer is cute as a goddamn button as Eddie Kaspbrak, forced hypochondriac by his mother. I noticed him in the trailer as appearing genuinely terrified and that shook me up. He's brilliant. Jaeden Lieberher plays our stuttering main man Bill Denbrough and he hits the balance of fear and sadness and shines bravery through them both. Jeremy Ray Taylor is endearing as ever as new kid Ben, who fits seamlessly into the Losers Club. And Chosen Jacobs does well, he has a brief sentimental moment about his family where he gets to stretch his sad muscles amongst the fear and kills it. Wyatt Oleff is great as Stanley showing his struggles more than the rest of the group, which if you've read the book is heartbreaking to see. And Sophia Lillis, was perfect. I watched her as if I recognised her because she just looked exactly how I imagined her to be. She was gorgeous and cool as the 80's girl next door. Showed genuine fear and independence in turn of that, definitely one to watch.
The rest of the cast were great. Though there are no real adults. Very few lines of dialogue from authority, parents and otherwise, and they're all a little off. It is very much a film about the kids and they smash it.
Cinematography is great right off the bat. Also, major points for this, doesn't get too dark. It's in the sewers yet we can see everything! Amazing! No chickening out here, they show you everything, you don't miss a thing unless you close your eyes. Which is great, no cop outs. Editing is great too, there's some great comedic moments which land well because of the editing. For me the stand out performance is the sound. Absolutely incredible. I saw this in Imax and I'm so pleased I did. They use a familiar heavy bass that you feel creeping up and harsh silences that make you hold your breath. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if there's an Oscar nod in that department, or for costume and make up either for that matter.
Well rounded horror, Mama (2013) director Andy Muschietti proves he knows what he's doing. One of the best films of the year. You're doing yourself a disservice if you don't watch this in the cinema 8.5/10
CINEMATES - A
