The new adaptation of one of the most well-known Stephen King novels, “It,” came to theaters this September and dominated the box office.

“It” was published in 1986 and since its release, there have been two on-screen adaptations.

When comparing “It” (2017) to the 1990 mini-series, it’s easy to see the major differences between the two. The 1990’s classic set a new standard in the horror genre by being something entirely new and different. While the same story is being told, the 2017 version is no different in creating a new standard for horror.

While there are a few mistakes with background and some dialogue, the mistakes are completely outweighed by the cast, plot, and cinematography of the film.

Pennywise the Dancing Clown (Tim Curry) was probably the most iconic staple of the 1990’s mini-series by being a new kind of character never seen by the general audience before, by being surprisingly terrifying for a television mini-series.

Bill Skarsgard and his portrayal of Pennywise set a new tone to the infamous clown-monster antagonist, as you’ll see in the 2017 adaptation. He progresses and changes as the movie develops, in some sense the two were as much of the same as they are different. Each sets an impressive twist to the character that makes him exactly what he’s supposed to be; fear.

Throughout the movie, you can feel the chemistry and scripted tension between Pennywise and the Losers’ Club, which is the name of the young group of kids. There is  never a time in the film where you cannot feel the kid’s struggle and conflict, which was not the case for the lackluster Losers’ Club of the mini-series.

Along with the novel and mini-series, “It” (2017) is set in Derry, Maine. With the way it’s filmed, it really makes you feel like you’re in the small town with them, which really brought the film together. The first scene of the movie starts in the beginning of Pennywise’s regime by showing the conflicts unfolding in the small town.

Each kid is dealing with their own fears and home life problems, whether it’s illness, abuse, or a death. While dealing with the real-life situation Pennywise becomes a replica of each kid’s specific fear. By doing that, Pennywise appears to always have the upper hand.

As the movie progresses and the kids confront Pennywise more, you see the characters develop and grow in ways that fit their issues- not only with Pennywise but with their home life as well. All of the children do a fantastic job in their acting, really reacting to the situation and showing how it impacts them.

When nearing the end of the film, the Club has made a complete turnaround, as they realize that sticking together is the only way to defeat Pennywise.

Finally, when the end of the film came around they stayed true to the book and mini-series by setting up for another story, “Chapter Two”.

This movie keeps your eyes glued to the screen from start to finish with fresh ideas, great chemistry, and an entertaining story. For anyone planning on seeing “It’”, the only thing they have to do is prepare themselves.

This movie was fantastic and “It” really floats my boat. I’d give this movie a solid 4 out of 5 red balloons.