The Terrifying Truth About 'It: Welcome to Derry'
SPOILER ALERT: Brace yourself for some spine-chilling revelations from Season 1, Episode 5 of 'It: Welcome to Derry', now streaming on HBO Max.
In the world of 'It', Pennywise, the notorious clown, thrives on fear, particularly the fear of children. When the first episode introduced a group of young protagonists, viewers naturally assumed they'd be the show's heroes, akin to the Losers Club from Stephen King's iconic novel.
But here's where it gets controversial: Episode 1's shocking twist saw more than half of these kids meet a gruesome end, sending a chilling message that no one is safe in Derry. As new characters were introduced in subsequent episodes, audiences couldn't help but wonder if they'd suffer the same fate.
And this is the part most people miss: In Episode 5, these new kids finally unite, venturing into the sewers beneath Derry, where they confront Pennywise himself (Bill Skarsgård). Meet the brave young actors who portray Will Hanlon (Blake Cameron James), Lilly Bainbridge (Clara Stack), Veronica 'Ronnie' Grogan (Amanda Christine), Rich Santos (Arian S. Cartaya), and Marge Truman (Matilda Lawler).
Variety sat down with this talented bunch to uncover how they landed their roles and mustered the courage to deliver some of the series' most terrifying performances.
The Journey to Derry
Clara Stack: I was in for a shock when I learned I'd landed the role months after my audition. My mom broke the news, and my family gathered to tell me. I was thrilled and honored to explore the 'It' universe.
Matilda Lawler: I was overjoyed to play Marge. She resonated with me during the audition, and it was months later when I found out. I was at a dance recital, and my heart leaped at the news. I danced with excitement!
Amanda Christine: I sent in just one take for my audition, unaware of the show's true nature. It was intense, filming the scene where my dad is taken to Shawshank. Learning I was Ronnie Grogan was a surprise, and I dove into the 'It' universe with my castmates.
Arian S. Cartaya: I recall bouncing off the walls with excitement when my mom shared the news at my grandma's house.
Blake Cameron James: I can't pinpoint the exact location, but I was at home when I found out.
Exploring the 'It' Universe
Had any of you encountered the 'It' movies or Stephen King's book before?
Blake Cameron James: I was terrified of Pennywise, so I avoided the book and movies.
Arian S. Cartaya: I watched the first 'It' movie in Canada, and it was a fun experience. But I haven't read the book yet.
Amanda Christine: I watched the movie a few months before landing the role. It was scary, but I've since started reading the book, which is massive. I'm diving into the 'It' universe, exploring the myths, nuclear elements, racial traumas, and bullying.
Matilda Lawler: Like Amanda, I'm a Stephen King fan and have tried to read the book. It's a powerful work. I love his movies like 'The Shining' and 'Carrie'. I tried watching the movie for my sister's birthday but had a meltdown. She tormented me with Pennywise pictures! But I revisited it for the audition.
Clara Stack: I'm a horror movie fan and watched the first 'It' movie at age 9. I admire Stephen King's talent and was honored to step into his universe with this prequel series.
The Horror Experience
Did working on the show feel scary, or has it made horror movies less intimidating?
Matilda Lawler: It was scary on set, even though it felt ridiculous reacting to air or tape. Our acting coach, Mr. Ben, helped us create a sense of fear. We built a safe space to explore our personal fears and our characters' fears.
Amanda Stack: Some scenes were intense, but having Andy, Barbara, and Mr. Ben on set made it comfortable. They created a welcoming family atmosphere, making filming fun.
Amanda Christine: It's different seeing it on screen with CGI and VFX. In person, we connected to deep emotions, and music helped me get into character. Having those acting tools was amazing.
Blake Cameron James: I became more interested in horror, but I still avoid scary stuff. This show helped me see things differently, realizing prosthetics and fake blood are part of the process.
Arian S. Cartaya: This experience helped me face my fears, but I'm still scared of other scary movies. I won't be watching those!
These interviews have been edited and condensed.
