Andres Muschetti’s movie rendition of the 1986 novel “It” by Steven King takes a terrifyingly violent twist on the classic coming-of-age story. Pennywise is not just a dancing circus performer, he is solely a form of It, a creature who could hold its own against some of the most iconic horror movie characters like Freddy or Jason.

This shapeshifting demon brings a child’s worst fear to life, and although it most often takes the form of a clown, it can appear as anything that would haunt their nightmares. It represents that inescapable feeling of fear that can dominate a person’s life the way that Pennywise tormented the town of Derry.

“It” is not just another plotless horror movie. The film is not just every screen on the reel with pop-out scares and painful demises, requiring no thought on the part of the viewer to get the full effect of the story. Well, to be fair, the picture does have its fair share of blood baths and surprises that will make you squirm, but it’s so much more than that; it’s relatable. That’s what makes the movie terrifying.

Now, most people don’t come face to face with a creature from Hell, but everyone is an adolescent at some point, trying to figure out life. The characterization makes it easy to identify with the lead roles, a band of seven teenage misfits, part of the “loser’s club” as they call it.  Not only are the personages relatable, but the theme of fear can be applied to the life of any viewer.

The way Muschetti presents fear is full authentic; it is something encompassing that everyone has to deal with until it is either faced it and overcome it or surrendered to. It is a simple task to submit to your fears and be content in a state of hesitant continuity, never making a change, stuck scared in the corner you’ve trapped yourself in. It is the children who don’t let their fears paralyze them that conquer their (in this case literal) demons and persevere that succeed in the end.

This movie is a must-see. It’s perfect for any age (well, as long as you can handle spine-chilling suspense).  “It” is packed with relationships and humor and might even inspire kids to read a book.