“Welcome to Derry,” an HBO series set in the unsettling universe of Stephen King’s “It,” dives deep into the horrors that transcend mere supernatural threats, exposing the stark realities faced by marginalized communities. This gripping prequel, following the stylistic approach of Andy Muschietti’s acclaimed “It” films, not only delivers heart-pounding jump scares and body horror but also tackles the very real issues of race and societal injustice that plague the fictional town of Derry, Maine.
Set against the backdrop of 1962, “Welcome to Derry” introduces two distinct groups grappling with the terror unleashed every 27 years by a shapeshifting evil—a malevolent force that thrives on the fears of its victims, often manifesting as the sinister clown Pennywise. One storyline follows a group of socially marginalized children striving to uncover the mystery of their missing friend, while the other features a select team from the U.S. Air Force dealing with their own unique set of challenges.
In its debut episode, the series establishes the horror as a group of children inadvertently summon a demonic presence while trying to locate their friend Matty. The second episode, “The Thing in the Dark,” digs into the aftermath of this chilling event, showcasing how the malevolence preys upon both the innocent and those in positions of vulnerability. A pivotal character, Hank Grogan, the lone Black projectionist at a local theater, finds himself under scrutiny as the police seek to scapegoat him for the children’s disappearance.
The show does not shy away from examining the intersection of horror and race. Hank’s daughter, Veronica, endures psychological torment from Pennywise, who appears as a twisted version of her deceased mother, evoking themes around maternal mortality and the burdens carried by Black women. This chilling encounter highlights the stark realities of systemic injustices, as Veronica grapples not only with supernatural terror but with the very real dangers her father faces in an unjust society.
The social commentary continues with the Hanlon family, particularly Maj. Leroy Hanlon, who navigates his military position against a backdrop of racism. His struggles are mirrored in the experiences of his wife, Charlotte, who faces subtle but palpable snubs from the white residents of Derry. These moments paint a picture of a town steeped in discomfort and prejudice, suggesting that the true horrors of Derry are not solely the mythical creatures lurking in the shadows but also the insidious racism that affects everyday life.
As the series unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the threats posed by both mythical and real-world monsters are intricately linked in the lives of its Black characters. While the supernatural serves as a tangible representation of fear, the show also illustrates that the more ordinary frustrations of racism often yield greater psychological scars. By exploring these experiences, “Welcome to Derry” unearths a vital message about the nature of fear—one that resonates profoundly in contemporary society.
This thought-provoking blend of horror and social commentary is a breath of fresh air, challenging viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths that linger in the margins of genre storytelling. “Welcome to Derry” effectively elevates its narrative beyond mere fright, reminding us that real-life struggles can be more harrowing than any fictional nightmare. The series promises to continue delving into these themes, leaving audiences both intrigued and unsettled as they venture deeper into the haunted realities of Derry.