Unrequited Love and Missed Opportunities in It Chapter Two: The Richie and Eddie Relationship

In the movie 'It Chapter Two,' the relationship between Richie Tozier and Eddie Kaspbrak is complex and open to interpretation. Throughout the film, there are strong hints that Richie harbors romantic feelings for Eddie, but the latter may not reciprocate these feelings in the same way.

The Complexity of Their Relationship

In 'It Chapter Two,' the bond between Richie and Eddie is both tender and ambiguous, leaving viewers to question the true nature of their relationship. Richie's romantic feelings are clear throughout the film, rooted in their shared history and the deep emotional bond they developed as children. However, Eddie's focus on his own life and relationships with his wife suggests that he may not be fully aware of or acknowledging Richie's feelings.

Richie's Secret and Possible Unrequited Love

The film makes it evident that Richie is a closeted gay man, a detail not missed by any viewers paying close attention. In the final scene, Richie carves the initials 'RE' on the Lovers Bridge, implying a deeper emotional connection with Eddie. Additionally, Eddie's behavior and actions throughout the movie are often seen as stereotypically girlish, yet detailed enough to raise questions about his feelings for Richie.

Further Evidence: The Restaurant Scene and Beyond

A key element to understanding their relationship comes from the restaurant scene. When Richie and the others are drunk, Eddie mentions getting married, to which Richie—with everyone else—makes a joke. This simplicity suggests that their past memories were shared and acknowledged. However, Eddie's actions later in the movie offer clues about his awareness of Richie.

When Richie tries to rally Eddie to face Pennywise, he refers to Eddie as a 'badass guy,' mentioning details that only a close friend would know. This could indicate that Richie did remember Eddie over the years and possibly followed his career or social media, suggesting that their relationship ran deeper than initially thought. The subsequent scene where Richie is mistaken for not recognizing a line from an Eddie fan underscores the idea that Eddie maintained an interest in Richie's life.

A Eulogy for Missed Opportunities

The movie, despite its strengths, is not without its flaws. Certain creative choices and plot holes are often pointed out, such as the opening scene featuring a violent hate crime. These elements, while impactful, leave many viewers questioning the storytelling and the missed opportunity to explore the Richie and Eddie relationship in greater detail.

It's worth noting that the

examined aspects of their relationship are left open-ended, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. Ultimately, 'It Chapter Two' presents a compelling portrayal of unrequited love, with the possibility that Eddie's true feelings were not fully recognized.

After revisiting the movie with a more open mind, the viewer's appreciation for the film grows. Accepting the glaring plot holes and missed opportunities makes the narrative more cohesive and emotionally resonant. It's a story that invites reflection and discussion, much like the themes of love and longing it portrays.

In conclusion, the relationship between Richie and Eddie in 'It Chapter Two' is a nuanced and poignant exploration of unrequited love. While the specific details and emotions remain ambiguous, the movie leaves a lasting impression on its audience.