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In a small town in Maine, seven preteen friends band together to cope with bullies, family troubles, and the noise of growing up. They call themselves The Losers Club and lean on each other when strangers loom. Something ancient and hungry stalks the town, taking the form of a clown who thrives on fear and pain. The kids confront their insecurities while uncovering clues about a buried evil that cycles through the community. Bound by loyalty and courage, they vow to stand up to the menace despite warnings from adults and peril that seems to be watching. Their pact marks a start of a chilling test of friendship, courage, and survival against a force that feeds on childhood fears together.

It is directed by Andy Muschietti and adapts Stephen King's novel with early input from Cary Joji Fukunaga and Chase Palmer. The film features Jaeden Martell, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard and an ensemble that anchors the story for audiences worldwide.

It performed strongly at the worldwide box office, underscoring the market for big budget horror and the appeal of Stephen King adaptations. The film helped establish a franchise pathway for its creators and ensemble, and it inspired a sequel.

Pennywise became a cultural touchstone, turning the face of a sinister clown into an enduring image in horror art and memes. The film helped rekindle interest in late 2010s fright cinema and influenced a wave of teen friendly horror that still leans on strong character work and resonates in horror.

Most critics praised the cast and the balance between coming of age drama and suspenseful horror. The story rides on friendship, courage, and the power of a tight group to face fear, trauma, and a lurking evil. Its tone mixes dread with warmth and resilience. It still informs today's thrillers.