Netflix’s latest release, Stranger Things, has become an instant must-see. The show boasts a cast of brilliant actors, both known (Winona Ryder) and new (Millie Brown), elaborate direction, great setting and a story that echoes the past.
Set in 1983, the eight part series is a supernatural thriller that follows the odd events that happen in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana. Sparked by the disappearance of a young boy, the town becomes increasingly aware of the maleficent forces working secretly in their otherwise peaceful community.
Stranger Things is a show that employs a modern form of distribution with a retro story that reminds us of the disco era. Creators Matt and Ross Duffer, also known as The Duffer Brothers, manage to craft a story with traits that in some sense feel familiar, yet at the same time are completely original. There’s the child that goes missing, the young girl with telekinetic powers, secret agencies, the crazed mother… not to mention the monster. It’s the use of these genre conventions that not only scare us like a good 80’s horror movie, but also allows an exploration of
“an array of entirely relatable anxieties, like the fears of parents and children who are growing apart, and the scary gulfs that lurk between friends and longtime acquaintances who realise they may not really know each other at all.” – Variety
One of the things that makes the show so enticing is its consistent referencing to 80’s popular culture. From nods to films like E.T., Poltergeist and Stand By Me, to trends like high-waisted mom jeans, banana seat bicycles and the role-playing game, Dungeons and Dragons. It is these factors I believe have led to the success of the show. It indulges our sense of nostalgia, and even as a viewer born in the next decade, you feel a connection to these times which is something special.
Another driving component to the positive response of Stranger Things, is without a doubt the acting. With the cast comprising of some well-known actors, Winona Ryder and Matthew Modine, it is really the younger stars that shine in this instance. Millie Brown’s portrayal of the confused paranormal character ‘Eleven’ is subtle and restrained, yet fierce and confident. She displays her role with a maturity beyond her age, giving a stellar performance. Props too have to be given to the other young members who each give a note worthy performance and mesh well as a group.
Everything about this show seems to work and you can tell that it has been carefully thought out. All the little details hidden in the settings, the characterisation, the eery evolving music, it makes for an addictive show. Highly recommended.
