Where was IT filmed? All filming locations explored

Modified Dec 25, 2024 16:59 GMT

A still from the movie IT (Image via Warner Bros.)

IT, the 2017 supernatural horror film directed by Andy Muschietti, has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Adapted from Stephen King’s 1986 novel, the gripping tale of terror marked the first installment of a two-part series.

The movie came out on September 8, 2017, and was made by New Line Cinema, KatzSmith Productions, and Lin Pictures. The movie became one of the most successful horror movies of all time by making over $704 million around the world.

The film centers on a group of seven outcast children known as "The Losers' Club," in the made-up town of Derry, Maine. These kids face their worst fears as they fight Pennywise, a scary clown who can change forms.

To make Derry's creepy atmosphere, the filmmakers chose places all over Canada, mostly in and around Toronto. Each location was carefully chosen to bring the haunting town to life.

Filming locations of IT

The haunting Neibolt House

The Neibolt House, a central location in IT, was constructed on a street corner in Oshawa, Ontario. The exterior scenes of the haunted house were filmed in this location, resulting in a foreboding atmosphere.

Cranfield House in Riverdale, Toronto, was employed by the filmmakers for the interior shots. This mansion has been previously depicted in other productions, including Orphan Black and Designated Survivor.

The town of Derry

In Port Hope, Ontario, the fictional town of Derry was brought to life. The town's vintage feel and historic architecture perfectly encapsulated the essence of Derry. Areas along Walton and Queen streets in the downtown area were changed to resemble the 1980s. The iconic Paul Bunyan statue scene was located at Memorial Park in Port Hope.

The library and high school

The Derry Public Library's exterior shots were captured at the Municipal Hall in Port Hope. Interior library scenes, on the other hand, were captured at Wycliffe College, University of Toronto.

Derry High School scenes were filmed at the Mount Mary Retreat Centre in Hamilton, Ontario. In Toronto, Congregation Knesseth Israel was the location of the synagogue scenes, which included Stanley's bar mitzvah preparation.

The iconic paper boat scene

The opening scene of the movie, where Georgie loses his paper boat to the storm drain, was filmed in the Weston neighborhood of Toronto. Storm drains are situated at Springmount Avenue and William Street, while Bill's residence is situated at 124 Queens Drive.

The Barrens and the West Montrose Covered Bridge

The Barrens, where the Losers' Club often gathers, was filmed in Rouge National Urban Park in Scarborough, Toronto. Swimming scenes were shot at Elora Quarry in Wellington County.

The West Montrose Covered Bridge, prominently featured in several scenes, served as the setting for Ben’s harrowing encounter with Henry Bowers and his gang.

Production, direction and cast details

Andy Muschietti directed IT with a vision inspired by 1980s classics like Stand by Me and The Goonies. Principal photography took place in the Greater Toronto Area from June to September 2016. Benjamin Wallfisch’s musical score further amplified the film’s suspense.

The main cast of IT includes: