There is one aspect of the story which makes zero sense...
Why does James Mason announce that Barlow even exists?
Because you know, Barlow is a freaking monster. He keeps saying, "Barlow is coming. Barlow would like to meet you. Barlow is my partner."
WHY? How does it benefit him to mention...
I was momentarily confused as well. So "IT" has missing scenes -- not Salems Lot. Great. Good to know this movie isn't missing any scenes. I wanted it longer anyways.
David Soul is perfectly fine in the part. He plays a guy who grew up in the town, witnesed something horrible left town, became a writerand comes back to face his demons. There is nothing in that, that was beyond his range and he gives a solid performace.