Stranger Things
With Netflix pumping out shows at their current rate, one could wager the quality would decline with the quantity at favorable odds, but the latest featured series Stranger Things appeared out of the blue to defy all expectations. This review will be short and sweet (like the product) and will contain no major spoilers.
Two trailers were released in June, mere weeks before the season was made available but it was only after its release weekend that I would hear about the show for the first time. It was the trending subject on my Facebook feed and a very positive one, for a change. It was more than sufficient to spark interest and Stranger Things suddenly became #1 on my backlog. My significant other confirmed our shared curiosity and so the adventure began.
If you don't want to waste time reading this mini-review any further, just watch both trailers below. I guarantee you'll log in your closest Netflix supported device and binge the whole thing before your next work shift, if time allows it.
The 80's Charm
It's 1983. The location; a small town called Hawkins, Indiana. It doesn't take long to notice the 80's in all its glory; wood decorated station wagons, fashionable bowl cuts and the first edition of Dungeons and Dragons. If situational cues were not enough, a VHS grain was applied in post production and the soundtrack reminisces the golden days of synths to ensure an authentic experience. What could feel forced just reinforces the atmosphere and oddly enough feels fresh.
The story begins when the kids quest is interrupted by their curfew. The group breaks up as they reach their respective home, leaving one alone in the dark on his way back. Something happens on the forest near the road that will forever change his life, triggering a chain of events that will affect the entire town. At that point there's no turning back; the tension is high and the show's claws are dug deep into your skin.
The nuclear family and floral wallpaper all around; doesn't get any more 80's than that!
The Cast
Actually the number one reason this series works isn't the mystery, but the highly convincing play by the child actors. Stranger Things' greatest attraction is its ability to mimic and refer to old school classics such as E.T., The Goonies and accurately enough; The Twilight Zone. Of course everyone pulls their weight with consistent performances, including veterans Wynona Ryder and David Harbour, but their presence is pale in comparison to their younger co-stars, especially Millie Bobby Brown.
There is absolutely no way she goes through the year without multiple accolades and awards. She owned her character. Every time she was on screen would trigger all kinds of emotions. You know that feeling you get when fiction seems believable when it shouldn't?
I am certain we will be seeing a lot more of her in the near future. It would be a blessing.
Give these kids some Emmys!
“You won’t believe what happens next!”
The Verdict
A mix of horror, thriller, drama, light touches of comedy with an authentic 80's classic movie feel is an excellent recipe when executed this flawlessly. Every episode will keep you on your toes in one way or another. Only the strong willed would resist the temptation of clicking on 'play next episode', notably because the seasons spans across 8 chapters of 45 minutes each, which is an easy to binge watch format.
The weekend is upon us. I strongly recommend assembling your crew, inviting your loved ones over or cuddling with your partner in front of the TV to enjoy one hell of a ride. Sorry about the new item on your ever growing "waiting for the next season" list.
