Transformative Turns in IT: Welcome To Derry
Just like Pennywise alters his appearance to astonish and astound, so does IT: Welcome To Derry, with each twist more daring than the one before. Yet, one particular twist will utterly shatter your heart in ways you could never anticipate, even if you had an inkling of the connection beforehand.
A Family-Related Twist Speculations
For some time, enthusiasts have speculated that Marge Truman (Matilda Lawler) could have a direct link to The Loser’s Club. You remember, those children who ultimately triumph over Pennywise 27 years later in It: Chapters One and Two. The theory is that Marge might actually become the future mother of Richie Tozier, the witty kid portrayed by Finn Wolfhard.
Similar to Richie, Marge is also a class clown wearing glasses (when it suits her). But what’s more significant, fans of Stephen King’s original IT novel may also remember that Richie’s mother is referred to as Maggie, which is yet another diminutive for Margaret or Marge…
Additionally, the most substantial clue emerged last week when Marge found herself ensnared in the Black Spot as it went up in flames after a horrendous racist incident.
The Sacrifice
Just when it appeared she might be finished, Rich Santos (Arian S Cartaya) urged Marge to safeguard herself in a compact refrigerator. However, once she was inside, it was clear that Rich had no room as well, leading him to ultimately sacrifice himself for her safety.
Rich professed his love for Marge before he was consumed by flames, and it’s evident she reciprocated those feelings. As a result, it makes complete sense that Marge would pay tribute to Rich’s sacrifice by naming her future son after him. It’s the least she could offer.
Startling Confirmation
This confirmation, however, did not come until one episode later in the final segment of season one. And certainly not in the manner you might expect.
Pennywise’s Killing Rampage
Episode 8 kicks off with Pennywise embarking on his most significant killing spree yet. With the barriers no longer confining him as before, the Dancing Clown waltzes into town and abducts a whole classroom of children, including Will.
The Rescue Effort
Lilly, Ronnie, and Marge pursue him to rescue their friend, hoping to ward off Pennywise with the dagger fashioned from the same material that previously imprisoned him in Derry. Yet, Marge’s misfortune strikes again when Pennywise seizes her from her companions.
Is it just me, or does it seem like Pennywise has a grudge against Marge? Well, yes, it appears he truly does.
A Sinister Revelation
Out on the ice, Pennywise begins to taunt her, disclosing that she has long occupied his thoughts (and his appetite too, apparently).
“I’ve always been curious about your flavor, Margaret Truman,” Pennywise remarks with a grin. “But not just yet… First comes affection, then comes marriage, then comes Richie in the baby carriage… Unless he perishes with you?”
Richie? In a baby carriage?
“Your son!” Pennywise continues. “The offspring of your foul loins and his companions bring me my demise. Or is it my birth? I often get mixed up. Today, tomorrow, yesterday… They all blend for little Pennywise. It’s not always simple being confined in one location, one moment.”
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The Uncomfortable Time Twist
In case there was any lingering doubt, Pennywise even displays a missing poster from the first IT film bearing Finn Wolfhard’s image. Indeed, Marge has just been presented with the face of her unborn child years before his arrival.
But it’s fair to assert that even viewers who foresaw this twist couldn’t have anticipated it would transpire in this manner.
Never before has Pennywise hinted at the concept that his consciousness operates so differently from ours, allowing him to perceive distinct temporal points simultaneously. This cosmic expansion of IT’s awareness is a game-changer, one that will influence future seasons now that Pennywise intends to manipulate time and thwart his eventual end.
A Loving Tribute
Marge survives this encounter, thankfully, and later speaks at Rich’s funeral, reflecting on their unique connection.
In a less creative program, this would likely have been the moment when the depth of her association with Richie was disclosed. Perhaps in a speech where she hints at cherishing Rich in her heart eternally, with his essence living on in some way. But no, it is Pennywise who reveals the truth to Marge – with time-distorting implications.
Emotional Equilibrium
It’s easy to dwell on the horror of what all this entails. Pennywise could, in theory, travel back in time and prevent the children from ever being conceived. But let’s not disregard the authentic affection and warmth that accompany this revelation.
Rich’s demise was undoubtedly the most gut-wrenching aspect of IT: Welcome To Derry thus far. Yes, even more than being devoured by Pennywise. But now we realize that his spirit will persist, literally at the funeral as he watches over his companions, and also in the films, through Marge’s son Richie Tozier.
Conclusion
“Twist and Shout, Derry Style”
Who would have imagined that time travel and clown horrors could deliver such an emotional impact? Marge’s forthcoming revelations leave us stunned like a Geordie at a soiree hosted by southerners!
