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IT: Chapter 2 Writer on the Challenges of Adapting Stephen King


The IT reboot was a huge success when it came out back in 2017, and we're set to get the sequel (and possible conclusion) later this year. Screenwriter Gary Dauberman talks about the challenges of adapting Stephen King's work to screen and "killing your darlings."

Taking to CinemaBlend, Dauberman explained:

"There's a lot of challenging things, but it really is an editing process of like...you know you're not going to get all the f***ing great scenes in there. You know, they always say you have to kill your darlings. But it's like, [they're] not. They are my darlings, but I'm such a fan of the books and the scenes, and so it's a challenge to sort of decide, 'Okay, well, I really like this, but I love that. Is there a way to get the two ideas in there and maybe put it somewhere else?' It's one of those things where I tried to preserve as much as I can of the book, in the spirit of the book, and why it works."

Though a lot of people loved the first film, director Andy Muschietti took a lot of liberties when it came to the story, from Pennywise's origin to the fears that each of the children had. With the adult part of the back being considered as the weaker section, it would be interesting to see how Muschietti and his team will be able to bring it to the big screen.

Dauberman continues:

"I mean, there's books out there that have great concepts, but they're not executed so well. So you're like, 'Well, I like the concept, but I'll kind of just run with it.' Or it's got a good first half, but the second half is not great, so you can depart from it. But these are not those, right? They work so well. There's a reason they've been around as long as they have been. So you're just working very hard to preserve as much as you can of it and give it the respect it deserves."

Personally, I'm not too much of a fan of horror, but I think the IT reboot managed to shine because it had a lot of heart. If they're able to replicate that same balance of horror and sincerity, then I think this sequel should do well.

Catch IT: Chapter 2 in theaters Sept. 6, 2019.

See Also: IT: Chapter Two Will Feature This Controversial Scene Skipped In The Previous Adaptation

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