This coming weekend, HBO Max will launch the inaugural episode of *IT: Welcome to Derry*. Developed by Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti, the sibling duo behind *IT* and *IT: Chapter Two*, this prequel series will unveil new, intense narratives centered on Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Enthusiasts of the R-rated horror films featuring Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise may think they know what to expect. However, they are mistaken.

Mashable’s Entertainment team has been immensely impressed by *IT: Welcome to Derry*, which deepens the narrative from three interludes found in Stephen King’s novel *IT*. While we won’t disclose any spoilers, here’s a simple caution:

Don’t plan on dining while viewing the premiere episode of *IT: Welcome to Derry*.

You may consider yourself a veteran horror aficionado, a dedicated King fan, or have a robust stomach, but keep in mind the old adage, “It’s not TV. It’s HBO.”

This is the network that brought us the spine-chilling *True Detective: Night Country* and the gripping second season of *The Last of Us*. HBO originally stood for Home Box Office, but it could very well mean Horror Bloody Outrageous.

As highlighted in Belen Edwards’ review, *IT: Welcome to Derry* does not shy away from its graphic content. The opening episode contains several highly explicit scenes. So, indulge well before you view this unsettling premiere.

Besides the stomach-turning elements, there’s substantial groundwork laid in this first episode that you won’t want to overlook. Additionally, there are scenes so astonishing and twisted that they will leave you in disbelief. So skip the popcorn. Avoid anything red or gory. Perhaps even pass on the Cracker Jacks. Trust us.

Certain TV series, such as *True Detective* and *Alien: Earth*, necessitate your undivided attention on a full stomach. Otherwise, it’ll be a grueling night.

*IT: Welcome to Derry* premieres on Sunday, October 26 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO, and will be available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes will be released weekly.