The Netflix original “Stranger Things” has become a very popular show over the past year. The show has a pleasant, feel-good eighties setting with an interesting sci-fi spin. The retro theme has a huge impact on the music, clothing, and style which creates an old-school vibe, and people are obsessed with it.
Compared to other shows set in the eighties, “Stranger Things” has portrayed every aspect of this lifestyle as if it was actually from that time period. The main difference that separates “Stranger Things” from other eighties shows is that special effects are higher quality. Compared to other television shows in general, “Stranger Things” has become successful because it pulls together many aspects such as mystery, humor, and romance. Shows like “Family Ties” and “Saved by the Bell” were commonly watched comedies, but lacked the quality of sound and image effects that shows today have. Some other shows that also portray eighties lifestyle include shows like “The Goldbergs,” but nothing comes close to “Stranger Things” in popularity.
A great aspect of “Stranger Things” is that it pulls in a wide variety of audiences. It is a great show for both families or groups of friends to watch together.
The seasons are short, only 8-9 episodes, but that is probably because the storyline is kept tight. “Stranger Things” keeps their watchers coming back for more by ending episodes with mysterious cliff-hangers.
The cast and crew of “Stranger Things” is another component to the show that compels people to keep coming back for more. Winona Ryder, who plays a role of the frantic mother, is famous for her parts in classic eighties movies such as “Beetlejuice” and “Heathers.” This contributes to more attention for the show due to her experience.
People also go crazy for the music. According to ‘Forbes,’ the soundtrack is a big factor that contributes to it’s popularity. “Stranger Things” creates a modern day soundtrack while incorporating songs from artists like The Clash, Toto, and Pat Benatar. The mystery component of this show makes it’s monster as mostly unseen, which is a sufficient way to depict the supernatural. Nostalgia is also powerful in “Stranger Things,” as it captures the eighties lifestyle with kids riding bikes and exploring the woods before cell phones. It proves that originality is a solution to nostalgia culture, which lacks in shows that try to recapture periods in history.
“Stranger Things” is a show that can bring everyone together. The theme, actors, and soundtrack make it original. It incorporates mystery and humor with a side of supernatural horror that will keep you coming back for more.
story by syd barton, graphic by vinny nelson
