18 Astounding Facts About Stranger Things

The Duffer Brothers originally pitched the show as a limited series.

Believe it or not, The Duffer Brothers, the brilliant minds behind Stranger Things, initially envisioned the show as a one-season limited series. Little did they know that it would become a massive hit and spawn multiple seasons.

Stranger Things was inspired by iconic movies from the 80s.

If you’re a fan of 80s movies, you’ll recognize the homage paid to classics like E.T., The Goonies, and Stand by Me in Stranger Things. The show captures the essence of these films while adding its own unique twist.

The Upside Down was initially supposed to be called “The Nether.”

Can you imagine if the eerie parallel dimension in Stranger Things was called “The Nether” instead of “The Upside Down”? The Duffer Brothers changed the name because they wanted something more mysterious and evocative.

The first season of Stranger Things was filmed in Georgia.

While the show is set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the first season of Stranger Things was actually filmed in Georgia. The town used for filming, Stockbridge, perfectly captured the small-town aesthetic of the 80s.

Millie Bobby Brown almost didn’t audition for the role of Eleven.

Can you imagine Stranger Things without Millie Bobby Brown as the iconic character Eleven? Well, it almost happened. Millie initially turned down the audition but eventually changed her mind after reading the script.

Stranger Things was a sleeper hit when it first premiered.

When Stranger Things was first released on Netflix, it quickly gained a dedicated fan base, but it took some time for it to become the cultural phenomenon it is today. Word-of-mouth and social media buzz played a significant role in its success.

Barb became a surprising fan favorite.

Barb, Nancy Wheeler’s best friend, quickly became a fan favorite despite her limited screen time. Her distinctive glasses and sense of justice resonated with viewers and turned her into an unexpected cult icon.

Eleven’s iconic buzzcut was Millie Bobby Brown’s idea.

Millie Bobby Brown, who portrays Eleven, suggested the idea of shaving her head for the role. The decision added to the character’s uniqueness and became one of Eleven’s defining traits.

Dustin’s trademark phrase “Stranger Things” was improvised.

One of the most memorable catchphrases from the show, “Stranger Things,” was actually improvised by Gaten Matarazzo, the actor who brings Dustin Henderson to life. His impromptu line became an integral part of the show’s lexicon.

Will Byers was originally supposed to be killed off in the first season.

Believe it or not, the original plan was to have Will Byers meet a tragic end in the first season of Stranger Things. However, the Duffer Brothers changed their minds and decided to keep him alive, much to the delight of fans.

The show’s creators drew inspiration from Dungeons & Dragons.

The Duffer Brothers grew up playing Dungeons & Dragons, and the game has heavily influenced the show. The imaginative world-building and sense of adventure in Stranger Things mirror the excitement of playing D&D.

The famous Christmas lights scene in Season 1 was challenging to film.

The scene where Joyce Byers communicates with her missing son, Will, through a string of Christmas lights was a complex and incredibly technical sequence to shoot. The attention to detail and the teamwork involved in bringing the scene to life is truly astonishing.

Stranger Things has its own unique font.

The Stranger Things logo features a distinct retro font that was custom-designed for the show. The creators wanted to evoke a sense of nostalgia and capture the essence of 80s pop culture through every aspect, right down to the typography.

The show’s young cast had to go through ’80s boot camp.

To prepare for their roles and immerse themselves in the 1980s setting, the young cast members underwent an ’80s boot camp. They learned about the fashion, slang, and cultural references of the time to authentically portray their characters.

Stranger Things has a massive following on social media.

Thanks to its passionate fan base, Stranger Things has a massive presence on social media. The show’s official accounts boast millions of followers, and discussions about the show can be found on various platforms, making it a true cultural phenomenon of the digital age.

There are hidden references throughout the show.

Stranger Things is packed with Easter eggs and references to other movies, TV shows, and pop culture icons. From nods to Stephen King’s works to tributes to iconic 80s movies, fans love to dissect the show and discover these hidden gems.

Stranger Things has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the 80s.

The attention to detail in creating the 80s aesthetic of Stranger Things has been widely praised. From the set design to the music choices, the show meticulously captures the essence of the decade, transporting viewers back in time.

Stranger Things has inspired a resurgence in 80s fashion trends.

The show’s popularity has led to a resurgence in 80s fashion trends, with fans emulating the iconic looks of the characters. From retro t-shirts to high-waisted jeans, Stranger Things has had a significant influence on the fashion world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stranger Things has captivated audiences around the world with its unique blend of nostalgia, suspense, and supernatural storytelling. The show has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base for its compelling characters, engrossing plotlines, and clever references to 80s pop culture. With its remarkable success, it comes as no surprise that Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon and one of the most beloved series of recent times. As we eagerly anticipate the next season, we can only wonder what new and astounding facts Stranger Things has in store for us. Whether you’re a fan or new to the show, Stranger Things promises to entertain, thrill, and keep you on the edge of your seat.

FAQs

1. Who created Stranger Things?

The Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross, are the masterminds behind Stranger Things. They wrote and directed the series, drawing inspiration from their love for 80s movies and TV shows.

2. Where is Stranger Things set?

The show is primarily set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, during the 1980s. The small town serves as the backdrop for the supernatural events and the lives of the characters.

3. How many seasons of Stranger Things are there?

As of now, there are four seasons of Stranger Things available for viewers to enjoy. The show has gained immense popularity, leading to its renewal for future seasons.

4. Who are the main characters in Stranger Things?

The main ensemble of characters in Stranger Things includes Eleven, Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Will, Joyce, Hopper, Nancy, Jonathan, and Steve. Each character brings a unique dynamic to the narrative.

5. Is Stranger Things suitable for all ages?

While Stranger Things is generally considered a show for a mature audience due to its intense scenes and themes, it also has a broad appeal to younger viewers. Parental discretion is advised.

6. How long are the episodes of Stranger Things?

The episodes of Stranger Things typically range from 45 to 60 minutes in length. The runtime may vary slightly from episode to episode.

7. What makes Stranger Things so popular?

Stranger Things’ popularity can be attributed to its nostalgic elements, compelling storytelling, well-written characters, and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and suspense in its viewers.

8. Has Stranger Things won any awards?

Yes, Stranger Things has received numerous awards and nominations, including several Primetime Emmy Awards and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.

9. Are there any spin-offs or related content to Stranger Things?

Currently, there are no official spin-offs of Stranger Things. However, the popularity of the show has inspired merchandise, books, and a video game adaptation.

10. Can I watch Stranger Things on any streaming platform?

No, Stranger Things is exclusively available for streaming on Netflix. To enjoy the series, you will need a Netflix subscription.