Welcome to Derry Review: Episode 2 — The Thing in the Dark

Rating: 8.7/10

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) — Episode 2 shifts the series into a slower, more methodical rhythm while expanding the fear, suspicion, and tension gripping the town. The murders of the young children dominate every conversation in Derry, pushing the community into a mix of panic and desperate blame-shifting. Corruption begins to seep through the cracks as officials scramble to produce a culprit, even if the truth is far stranger than anything they’re willing to accept.

While the adults unravel, the kids become the emotional center of the episode. Veronica, in particular, steps into the spotlight with another chilling brush with the creature lurking beneath Derry’s surface. Her father becomes the town’s convenient target, blamed for the tragedy at the movie theater, which only heightens her fear and isolation. These moments are tense without giving away spoilers, and they reinforce how deeply “the thing in the dark” manipulates the town’s perception.

On the military side, the mystery tightens. Their investigation edges closer to uncovering a familiar element from a well-known Stephen King vehicle—a reveal that longtime fans will immediately recognize as a major connective thread in the King universe. It’s a smart world-building choice that broadens the scope beyond simple horror.

What really elevates the episode is the cast. The child actors deliver surprisingly strong performances, carrying long stretches of dramatic weight with total confidence. Paired with cinematic sound design that ties each scene together like a feature film, Episode 2 feels polished, atmospheric, and emotionally grounded.

Though the pace slows compared to the premiere, the tension never disappears. The Thing in the Dark builds character depth, expands the mythology, and sets the stage for bigger revelations ahead; earning a confident 8.7/10.