Stranger Things Fans: Dive into These Movies That Inspired the Hit Series!
Hello there, fellow Stranger Things enthusiasts! If you've found yourself binge-watching and re-watching the Upside Down adventure, you're not alone. But why stop at the series? Let's explore the movies that inspired Stranger Things and fuel your nostalgia for more '80s goodness. So grab your Eggo waffles and get ready to dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies that inspired stranger things.
The '80s Nostalgia Factor
Before we dive into the specific movies, let's talk about the '80s nostalgia that Stranger Things nails so perfectly. The series is a love letter to the decade, from its fashion and music to its pop culture references. So, it's no surprise that the movies that inspired Stranger Things are also deeply rooted in the '80s.
Why do these movies resonate with us? Well, they remind us of a simpler time, when monsters were just make-believe, and the biggest worry was whether we'd make it home before dark. They also tap into a collective nostalgia for the '80s, a decade that produced some of the most iconic movies of all time.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a no-brainer when it comes to movies that inspired Stranger Things. Both stories revolve around a young boy befriending an otherworldly creature, and both capture that magical sense of childhood wonder.
E.T.'s Elliott is like a prototype for Stranger Things' Mike Wheeler. He's a curious, imaginative kid who stumbles upon something extraordinary and decides to help, despite the risks. The film's iconic scene where E.T. phones home is echoed in Stranger Things' many scenes of communication between the kids and their friends in the Upside Down.
Alien (1979)
Alien is a horror classic that inspired Stranger Things' darker, scarier elements. While Stranger Things is more focused on the kids' adventure, it's no stranger to horror, with plenty of jump scares and creepy creatures.
The Demogorgon is a clear nod to Alien's Xenomorph. Both creatures are terrifying, otherworldly, and capable of causing serious harm. The chase scenes in Stranger Things, where the kids are pursued by the Demogorgon, are reminiscent of the cat-and-mouse game between the Nostromo crew and the Xenomorph.
The Goonies (1985)
The Goonies is another '80s classic that inspired Stranger Things. Both stories follow a group of kids on an adventure, facing off against adults who underestimate them.
The Goonies' Mikey Walsh is a spiritual ancestor of Stranger Things' Mike Wheeler. Both are leaders of their respective groups, brave, resourceful, and always ready to stand up to bullies. The treasure hunts in both stories also share a sense of excitement and danger.
Poltergeist (1982)
Poltergeist is a horror film that inspired Stranger Things' supernatural elements. Both stories deal with the paranormal, with kids at the center of the action.
The Poltergeist's Carol Anne Freeling is a clear inspiration for Stranger Things' Eleven. Both are young girls with psychic abilities who communicate with otherworldly entities. The scenes in Poltergeist where Carol Anne talks to the entities through the TV are echoed in Stranger Things' scenes of Eleven communicating with the Upside Down.
Stand by Me (1986)
Stand by Me is a coming-of-age story that inspired Stranger Things' themes of friendship and growing up.
*The friendship between the four boys in Stand by Me* is a clear inspiration for Stranger Things' friend group. Both sets of friends are tight-knit, loyal, and willing to go to great lengths for each other. The sense of nostalgia for childhood and the loss of innocence is also present in both stories.
The Influence of Steven Spielberg
Many of the movies that inspired Stranger Things were directed by Steven Spielberg. Spielberg's films are known for their blend of adventure, heart, and horror, and Stranger Things captures that same spirit.
The influence of Spielberg's films can be seen in Stranger Things' themes, storytelling, and visual style. The series' use of practical effects, for example, is a nod to Spielberg's preference for practical effects over CGI.
The '80s Horror Renaissance
Stranger Things is also part of a larger trend of '80s horror-inspired movies and TV shows. Films like It Follows and The Guest, and shows like Stranger Things and Stranger Things (yes, that's a thing) are all drawing from the same well of '80s horror nostalgia.
Why are we so drawn to '80s horror right now? Some say it's a reaction to the current political climate, with its sense of uncertainty and fear. Others say it's simply because '80s horror was so good, and we're long overdue for a comeback.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the movies that inspired Stranger Things. Whether you're a fan of '80s nostalgia, horror, or just great storytelling, there's something here for everyone. So next time you're in the mood for a Stranger Things fix, why not check out one of these classic films? You might just find a new favorite.
Until next time, this is your friendly neighborhood Stranger Things enthusiast, signing off. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more '80s goodness!