When was the first “It” movie made? This question brings us back to the early days of horror cinema, where the fear of the unknown and the eerie power of storytelling combined to create a lasting impact on audiences. The first adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic novel “It” was released in 1990, directed by Tommy Lee Wallace and starring Richard Thomas, John Ritter, and Annette O’Toole.
The story revolves around a group of children known as the Losers Club, who face off against an evil entity known as “Pennywise,” a shape-shifting creature that preys on the children of Derry, Maine. The novel was published in 1986 and quickly gained popularity, leading to the film adaptation. The movie received mixed reviews upon its release, but it has since been celebrated as a classic in the horror genre.
The first “It” movie was a modest success at the box office, but it was the 2017 adaptation directed by Andy Muschietti that truly captured the hearts and minds of audiences. This version of the story, which closely follows the novel, featured an ensemble cast including Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, Jaeden Lieberher, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Chosen Jacobs, Jack Dylan Grazer, Wyatt Oleff, and Nicholas Hamilton.
The 2017 “It” movie was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $700 million worldwide and receiving numerous accolades. It also marked the beginning of a new franchise, with a sequel, “It Chapter Two,” released in 2019. Both films have been praised for their faithful adaptation of King’s story and for the way they bring the characters and their experiences to life.
The question of when the first “It” movie was made is not just about the timeline of a horror film, but also about the enduring power of Stephen King’s storytelling. The “It” franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring merchandise, fan conventions, and even a musical adaptation. As the years go on, the legacy of the first “It” movie continues to grow, ensuring that the fear and excitement of the story will be remembered for generations to come.