It: Chapter Two

At the climax of IT Chapter Two, the Losers Club returns to the sewers of Derry to perform a ritual meant to banish Pennywise for good. However, unlike in the book, the film’s version of the ritual doesn’t involve the metaphysical battle through the deadlights but relies on the Losers simply believing in their collective strength. They chant and burn their tokens, but initially, it seems ineffective, partly because Mike had lied about the ritual’s true power—it’s based on belief, which they are lacking after their traumatic past experiences. The key moment unfolds when the Losers realize that Pennywise thrives on fear and perception; by confronting the clown and asserting that it’s just a ridiculous, small clown, they manage to diminish its power. Their bravest act is when Bill pulls what IT calls its heart from its chest, crushing it and killing Pennywise for good, a symbolic victory over their childhood fears and traumas. The death of Eddie earlier, in which Pennywise’s hybrid spider-form kills him, fuels their resolve, emphasizing that overcoming their grief and fear is the real triumph. This victory is reinforced when they emerge from the sewers, their scars from the blood pact healed, signaling that Pennywise will no longer threaten Derry. Though the film suggests this confrontation marks the end of Pennywise’s reign, Stephen King’s universe hints that such cosmic entities rarely stay gone forever. References in other stories imply Pennywise’s existence persists beneath the surface, meaning the danger might someday return. As for the Losers, their personal stories are left open-ended: Bill overcomes his guilt and plans to focus on his writing, especially his newfound confidence; Beverly and Ben start a romantic life together; Richie, mourning Eddie, embraces his identity; and Mike finally decides to leave Derry, setting the stage for a hopeful future, even as the memories and scars of their childhood remain a part of them. Meanwhile, the story also hints at deeper themes such as acceptance and confronting one’s fears, with Richie’s secret feelings for Eddie adding emotional depth to the tragic loss. Ultimately, the film concludes with the promise that Pennywise is truly defeated this time, contrasting with the previous ending and many Stephen King stories where evil never fully disappears. Still, the cosmic nature of Pennywise leaves open the chance that it could reemerge someday, but for now, Derry is safe, and the Losers have finally faced their fears and come out on the other side.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44