‘Stranger Things’ hits all the right notes
Netflix original show captivates audience, thrills viewers
September 20, 2016
Matt and Ross Duffer, also known as The Duffer Brothers, recently succeeded in creating one of the most successful shows in Netflix history.
“Stranger Things,” released July 15 on Netflix, has since become a smash hit, captivating viewers of all ages.
The show is an eight-episode sci-fi mystery and takes place in 1983, beginning with the curious disappearance of a young boy in the small, fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana.
The Duffer Brothers create a world packed with all things early ’80s, inspired by the likes of Stephen King and Steven Spielberg.
“Stranger Things” features “Dungeons & Dragons,” a different dimension, Toto’s “Africa” and a young girl with telekinetic powers experimented on by the government. You know, ’80s stuff.
“Stranger Things” excels on all fronts. Aesthetically, the show captures the feel of the early ’80s, from the clothing to the grain added during the film, shot on a RED Dragon camera.
The cinematography and costumes add to the vibe of the show. The camera quality is much better than ’80s cameras, but the cinematography is inspired by the likes of “E.T.”
The actors are superb, especially Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven, the girl taken by the government to be used for her mind powers.
At 12-years old, Brown gives a performance at the same level as some of the more experienced adults on the show.
Brown displays incredible talent and great things can be expected from her in the future.
Other great performances included Jim Hopper (David Harbour), the Hawkins police chief, and Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder), the mother of the young boy who disappeared.
Both were believable in their performances and added to the impressive and nostalgic atmosphere of the show. Ryder’s portrayal of a mother proves authentic.
The show’s writing also provides suspense. The Duffer Brothers understand how kids actually talk, unlike most TV shows where it seems as though it had been years since the writers were children.
The impressive writing could be attributed to the fact that the Duffer Brothers have such a love for ’80s movies and characters, especially younger characters, since they grew up in this time period.
All these elements come together to create a well-crafted television show, which feels like an eight-part film as you watch it.
Having watched the show twice, it’s safe to say the show doesn’t lose its magic the second time through.
With fall approaching, curling up with some apple cider and some “Stranger Things” sounds like a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
The second season of “Stranger Things” is set to premiere in 2017.
