Stranger Things: Review

So, after seeing gif sets everywhere, memes about Eggos and a strange girl with no hair, I finally watched Stranger Things, the Netflix Original that has Sci-Fi fans going gaga. We’ll try to keep to keep it spoiler free.

It’s probably one of the best series on Netflix; let’s get that out of the way first. If you were a fan of the way 80s and early 90s horror and fantasy films were shot and written, this is a must-watch. Some parts could be shots taken directly from films like Jaws or Nightmare on Elm Street. There could even be comparisons between Stand by Me, as in one scene the four main characters walk along train tracks, in pairs. The camera switches between them like in that scene from Stand by Me.

It’s fascinating to see a show take so much from recent pop culture and mould it into something that feels old. That feels retro. It could be the setting, or it could be the slight over-saturation of everything, like cameras in the 80s used to do. It’s wonderfully shot and there was never a moment where you’re waiting. Shows like Daredevil and particularly Jessica Jones have lulls in the action that slowed the show. Stranger Things gives us a fresh look at what is a very simple story.

A young girl, named Eleven due to the tattoo on her arm, has escaped from some secret suited captors. She meets up with these three dorks:

Dustin, Mike and Lucas.

Their relationship is exactly like any kids at that age. It gives a certain nostalgia almost, as you see something in them that you may have done yourself. Riding your bike home from your friends after a day of being a total nerd. Gushing over old tech, or the opportunity to meet someone who can move things with her mind.

Eleven is weird. She has telekinesis, telepathy, and really, really likes Eggos.

My sweet child. Too precious.

Each character is unique. Each character has their own story arc. A mother who lost her son, a cop who has his eyes opened, a bunch of kids who learn what it means to lose a friend. A girl who has no idea what she wants.

There are only eight episodes, which is a damn travesty by the way. The show ends on a really poignant cliff hanger, and I, along with the rest of the fandom, am eager for more.

Or should I say… Eggo for more?

Okay, we made an awful pun, time to end the review.

Solid 9/10.

It’s wonderful and enchanting and it’s given birth to a weird and intriguing world. Looking forward to season two!