I I’ve just finished watching the first episodes of Stranger Things, and I’m honestly blown away. From the very first moment, it felt like stepping into a world that was both familiar and completely new. The mix of small-town mystery, supernatural horror, and 80s nostalgia is instantly captivating. If you grew up on films like E.T. or The Goonies, there’s a lot here to love, but even without that background, the series grabs you with its tension, humour, and heart.
Before I start sharing my thoughts I want to make clear that this review will contain no spoilers and i’ll try keep plot details to a minimum because if any of you do check the show out you’re gonna wanna go in knowing as little as possible. So lets begin.
Mystery, Horror, and the Upside Down
From the very first episode, Stranger Things sets a tense, mysterious tone. The disappearance of Will Byers immediately pulls you in, and the introduction of the Upside Down hints at something dark and dangerous lurking beneath Hawkins. The horror isn’t cheap as it builds slowly through atmosphere, sound design, and careful pacing.
The style of the show was the main attraction for me however this could’ve easily been a style over substance scenario. It isn’t though, the story and characters keeps you invested making you want to watch the next episode right away.
Winona Ryder gives a great performance as the mother who is driven to near insanity, at least from the perspective from other people. David Harbour who plays Hopper, the police chief was one of the most entertaining aspects of the show as we get to see him slowly uncover dark secrets regarding the investigation.
The most entertaining characters on the show however are the three kids searching for their friend, honestly these kids are brilliant. They were funny and extremely likeable which can’t be said for a lot of child characters in recent movies and TV. One of the main reasons as to why they are so likeable is because they talk like kids, the dialogue is realistic and sounds like what you’d hear kids say.
Another one of my favourite characters was Eleven played by Millie Bobby Brown. This actress was amazing, she felt real and authentic. Her performance was easily one of the best in the show and was one of the best performances I’ve seen from a child. Her character is the most intriguing and compelling, you know that she has a dark past but not all is revealed. As for the three boys my favourite one was Dustin, he was by far the most comedic and most likeable. The fantastic thing about the group of friends however is their tight bond and it’s just great to see that.
The soundtrack for this series is also great but the synth heavy score was remarkable, I could have the main theme for the series on loop and never get tired of it. I also loved how consistent the show felt, this series had the Duffer brothers for six of the eight episodes and had Shawn Levy for two of them yet the style and tone always felt the same.
I know I’ve not faulted anything yet but that’s because I can’t really. Some people may be bothered by moments that resemble other movies such as E.T and might challenge how original the show is. For me however I welcomed these homages into open arms, nothing bothered me except the cliffhanger and that’s only because now I have to wait for season two.
For me Stranger Things is the best TV show to release this year and is personally one of my favourites shows in recent memory. Treat yourself and go check it out, if you’re a fan of the 80’s era I can guarantee you will not be disappointed. If you’re just wanting to watch a good TV show then I can tell you right now, this will suffice.
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