IT Chapter Two: Multidimensionally Frightening

Rating: 7.4/10

Frightening and gripping, IT Chapter Two presents villains, both killer clowns and humans, who terrify us. Though Pennywise doesn't stay with you after you leave the theater, the reminder of mankind's ability to do evil does in this edge-of-the-seat thriller.

Highlights:

• Characters are deep and layered

• The movie is long (almost three hours) but doesn't drag on

• Bill Hader is hilarious and James McAvoy shines

Lowlights: 

• Bev lost her mojo

• A lot of time is spent in flashbacks

• Adults are not as fun as kids

IT Chapter Two is a good sequel. Of course, the first movie is better, but this was a good sequel as far as sequels go. Although it's lengthy, coming in at almost three hours, the time is well-used and doesn't drag on. I would definitely recommend watching the first movie beforehand, as it provides important backstory that IT Chapter Two only partially explains. What I mainly appreciate about IT Chapter Two is that it isn't completely terrifying. If you're easily scared like me, this is a movie you can watch without worrying about how you're going to fall asleep that night. It's scary while it's playing, but afterwards you're fine. I appreciated Stephen King's embrace of evil humans as well. There are lots of bullies in the movie, and they are so strong that at times you forget about Pennywise and worry about the humans. If anything, that's what sticks with you when the curtains close -- the potential evil of mankind.

Did you watch the movie? Do you want more? Check out the original It -- either the movie, Stephen King's novel (which covers both films) or the Tim Curry miniseries. You will gain a deeper understanding of the widely popular story!

Watch the trailer!