After months of unprecedented anticipation, Andrés Muschietti‘s It has surpassed its already high expectations to earn a record-breaking theatrical opening. Warner Bros.’ reported $123.1 million domestic opening – with nearly $185 million internationally – is the biggest ever launch for a horror film, towering over the previous champion Paranormal Activity 3 which enjoyed a now insignificant $52.6 million.
The adaptation of the Stephen King novel accounted for more than 75% of the weekend’s top twelve gross, cementing the film’s monumental status after its well publicised run up. It is already regarded as being among the cream of the crop of King adaptations, a major compliment with the likes of classic Misery, The Shining, and The Shawshank Redemption to contend with.
Perhaps its success is an echo of Stranger Things, with misfit kids and ’80s nostalgia making for attractive viewing; young actor Finn Wolfhard enjoys the best of both worlds, seemingly planning a lengthy life in tube socks and vintage arcades.
The hype of Bill Skarsgard‘s now applauded performance as Pennywise the Dancing Clown may have also contributed to making the film and weekend hit. Of course, he will naturally be compared to Tim Curry‘s miniseries portrayal, though being a second adaptation only increases viewership interest.
Whatever the reason for the film’s record breaking success, It certainly raises the bar for the future of horror. To my relief, there might be hope that paranormal forces are being pushed aside in favour of the clown, resurrected by It and American Horror Story. Outright fear will replace jump scares, and horror will return to its late twentieth century prowess.
#Peace.Love.It
