STRANGER THINGS is the newest Netflix phenomenon, and it is worth every minute of your binge-watching time.
Created by brothers Matt and Ross Duffer, Stranger Things is an eight-episode scientific mystery that follows a small town on the search for a missing boy and the monster that took him.
The Duffer Brothers channel both the intelligence of Stephen King and the essence of 1980s cinema, and together these elements make Stranger Things simply addictive.
After young local Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) vanishes, delusion and reality soon align. As the community mourns, more people disappear and a telekinetic girl is discovered. It soon becomes clear that something supernatural is at play.
Winona Ryder plays Joyce Byers, a mother whose distress is confused for madness in the eyes of many locals. Ryder’s performance is powerful, and you really do believe it is her child that has vanished.
David Harbour portrays Chief Jim Hopper in a grounded and gritty manner that seemingly fits inside a world of scientific mutation and cross-dimensional travel.
Millie Bobby Brown is the stand out of the show. Her role as the intriguing and powered Eleven speaks only a handful of times in each episode, but her screen time is never wasted. Brown is a valuable member of the Stranger Things cast.
The ensemble cast of boys in search of their missing friend is perfect, with all young actors bringing talent and maturity to their roles.
Finn Wolfhard as group leader Mike Wheeler is articulate and adaptable. Wolfhard has the ability to perform any emotion whilst working by himself, with effects or co-stars.
Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair is the voice of reason for our team of wannabe heroes. McLaughlin holds his weight amongst a talented cast, and is a future star that is worth keeping an eye on.
Gaten Matarazzo adds a comedic element with his role of Dustin ‘Toothless’ Henderson. Toothless is a character that you really do barrack for, whether he be dealing with school yard bullies, board games or beasts.
Stranger Things oozes with 80s pop culture references, and is very precise in setting this scene. The music, graphics, clothing, food and vehicles all assist in world building.
Stranger Things is great viewing for fans of any genre. It is a scary and funny tale that never skips an emotional beat. The scientific notions aren’t too complex, and the dramatic teen romance doesn’t stray too far into soap opera territory.
Stranger Things is compelling viewing at its finest, balancing the many elements that make a good series. Perfect for a binge-watch or a boredom cure, Stranger Things is a successful science fiction story that hones the past and creates a new future.
