In 2 weeks’ time, It: Chapter Two will grace Australian shores with its presence, with preview screenings currently taking place overseas.
Members of the press have subsequently taken to Twitter to share their initial thoughts on the much-anticipated sequel and, well, they have some feelings.
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The general consensus seems to be that the film is a tad long (2h 49m – no, thank you) and doesn’t quite live up to the expectations set by its predecessor. Despite the differing array of responses, though, one thing is clear – Bill Hader reigns supreme and is 100% That Bitch.
Anyway, let’s pour this entertainment tea, if you will, and start with the spicy reactions.
It: Chapter Two is the biggest disappointment of the year. A dull & bloated mess that spends too much time rehashing things from the first film. While there are a few good moments, the film ultimately lacks suspense and scares. The performances are also a mixed bag. #ITChapterTwo pic.twitter.com/3NlauZxj2f
— Scott Menzel (@ScottDMenzel) August 21, 2019
#ITChapterTwo is big and ambitious and can’t *quite* handle the weight of its aspirations, but it’s still a fine piece of heartfelt horror. The parts that work, work REALLY well and Bill Hader is every-bit the scene-stealing standout we all hoped he’d be.
— Haleigh Foutch (@HaleighFoutch) August 21, 2019
#ITChapter2 has a rushed, clumsy first act & an odd lack of chemistry among the adult Losers. But it eventually finds its footing. This is a BIG movie—a go for broke horror blockbuster not afraid to make weird choices. Bill Hader steals the show. #ITMovie #ITChapterTwo pic.twitter.com/cib2slRfoq
— Chris Evangelista (@cevangelista413) August 21, 2019
https://twitter.com/FunctionalNerd/status/1163992820287336450
Here are some kinder reactions, though, because we love a balanced perspective.
#ITChapterTwo is a terrific companion to #ITChapterOne. Similar vibes, great ensemble chemistry w/ a nice mix of humor and horror. Part 2 plays heavier in tone, dealing w/ defeating the burden of childhood trauma, & I definitely teared up at the very end. Bill Hader steals it pic.twitter.com/bjiwtJufNQ
— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) August 21, 2019
So, #ITChapterTwo: it’s v. good, but not great. I liked it, but didn’t LOVE it. First movie is a tough act to follow. TWO is gruesome, strange but rarely scary. Nails important aspects from the book, but feels overlong. Cast is aces, though, & Bill Hader SHOULD be in Oscar convo. pic.twitter.com/1KUZk5TXA1
— Sean O’Connell (@Sean_OConnell) August 21, 2019
#ITChapterTwo is probably scarier than chapter one – more Pennywise imagery to haunt your dreams. But it also loses a lot of charm in the shift in focus from the coming of age to the now adult characters. At nearly 3 hours it feels long.
— /Film (@slashfilm) August 21, 2019
While It: Chapter Two definitely seems worthy of a visit to the cinemas, I just can’t get over the fact that it’s nearly 3-hours long. I’m going to need to about 7 wee breaks… I have a small bladder.
It: Chapter Two, based on the second instalment of Steven King‘s 1986 horror novel, takes place 27 years after the first film. You can’t deny the stellar cast, with Jessica Chastain, James McAvoy, Isaiah Mustafa, Jake Ryan, James Ransone and Andy Bean joining Bill Hader to form the grown-up Losers Club. Bill Skarsgård reprises his role as Pennywise.
It: Chapter 2 hits cinemas September 5. Check out the tummy-tingling trailer below.
