Stranger Things

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Jul 15, 2016
Season #: 5, 4.5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 2260 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,103 out of 2260
  2. Mixed: 95 out of 2260
  3. Negative: 62 out of 2260

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  1. the12black
    Aug 8, 2016
    8
    Child actors are never great, but the story is solid if a little slow, to start. The upside is, the slow start builds and accelerates at a linear crescendo, to a climax well worth the 10 hours.

    Would rewatch, and regularly recommend to others.
  2. drlowdon
    Aug 14, 2018
    8
    When a young boy disappears in strange circumstances just as a young girl with telekinetic powers arrives in town events are set in motion that no one involved will ever forget.

    Set in the 1980’s Stranger Things first season has more than a few echoes of the works of both director Steven Spielbeg and author Stephen King, and I mean that comparison in a good way. The cast, especially    When a young boy disappears in strange circumstances just as a young girl with telekinetic powers arrives in town events are set in motion that no one involved will ever forget.

    Set in the 1980’s Stranger Things first season has more than a few echoes of the works of both director Steven Spielbeg and author Stephen King, and I mean that comparison in a good way. The cast, especially young Millie Bobby Brown as “Eleven”, are excellent and the mix of horror, sci-if, drama and even a bit of comedy is pretty much spot on. One of Netflix’s best original series to date.    … Expand
  3. kman5473
    Jan 21, 2017
    8
    Very solid series. Definitely Netflix's best to date. It has everything that I want out of a TV show - action, adventure, solid acting, and an excellent story. Plus it's a sci-fi! The soundtrack is awesome too.
  4. keanex
    Aug 16, 2016
    8
    Stranger Things starts out with immense promise, tons of suspense and mystery. At the end of the first season I felt that the show had been cut short with questions left unanswered. It's shot well and I love the 80s vibe. I look forward to seeing how the second season goes as well. I likely wouldn't repeat watch the first season though.
  5. Vidmeister
    Oct 2, 2016
    8
    Equal parts Alien, Lost and Stand By Me, Stranger Things gets more things right than it gets wrong. The girl who plays Elle (Eleven) has a bright future ahead of her, as she steals every scene she is in. I am not their target audience, having grown up in the 70's, so I never saw The Goonies (referenced countless times by others) but I loved the plot line of a parallel universe withinEqual parts Alien, Lost and Stand By Me, Stranger Things gets more things right than it gets wrong. The girl who plays Elle (Eleven) has a bright future ahead of her, as she steals every scene she is in. I am not their target audience, having grown up in the 70's, so I never saw The Goonies (referenced countless times by others) but I loved the plot line of a parallel universe within striking-range of our universe. I don't see a point to a second season, as the storylines we have invested in are completed. They are unlikely to make a believable storyline that is is different enough from this one, to justify season 2. Well done though, despite a few cardboard characters, (cough..teen girlfriends of douchebag bullies..cough).… Expand
  6. mrmonster
    Jul 30, 2016
    8
    I have only seen one of the eight episodes, but I must say, this show is impressive so far. It has good characters, good scenes, and great suspense. I cannot wait to watch more.
  7. jamess
    Jul 16, 2016
    8
    It's not surprising that the Duffer Brothers worked on Wayward Pines previously, as Stranger Things is a similar weird things in a small town premise. As already stated, the influences of Steven Spielberg, Stephen King, John Carpenter and Wes Craven are easily recognized, but the film and filmmaker this reminds me the most of is Joe Dante's Explorers. Joe Dante was/is one of the biggestIt's not surprising that the Duffer Brothers worked on Wayward Pines previously, as Stranger Things is a similar weird things in a small town premise. As already stated, the influences of Steven Spielberg, Stephen King, John Carpenter and Wes Craven are easily recognized, but the film and filmmaker this reminds me the most of is Joe Dante's Explorers. Joe Dante was/is one of the biggest movie geeks turned director, and the Duffer Brothers are cut from the same cloth. Winona Ryder is top cast, but the real stars are the young cast of actors, from the main trio, El, and the high schoolers, across the board, they're all excellent. A special mention of the performance of character actor David Harbour as the police chief. I've seen him in supporting roles before, but he really shines as the haunted policeman. Just enjoy.… Expand
  8. brockcheese
    Jul 24, 2016
    8
    This show is a mix up of 80s horror and sci fi movies and feels a lot like an extended version of J J Abrams, Super 8. The characters are likable and the story is enthralling from start to finish.
  9. Garmy
    Jul 30, 2016
    8
    This show is as if someone made a few movies in the 80's but didn't release it until now. The pacing is slow and focuses on the characters - it's not your typical modern "let's overload the audience with special effects and 'cool' characters" fare.

    The first half of the season is solid and takes its time introducing you to the world, and it's fantastic because of it. Each episode ends    This show is as if someone made a few movies in the 80's but didn't release it until now. The pacing is slow and focuses on the characters - it's not your typical modern "let's overload the audience with special effects and 'cool' characters" fare.

    The first half of the season is solid and takes its time introducing you to the world, and it's fantastic because of it. Each episode ends with a mystery that begs you to play the next episode even when it's already 2 in the morning.

    The second half of the season loses some of the charm it had in the previous episodes, as it focuses on resolving the plot, which is does well. The mysteries are explained, but at the cost of staying intriguing. The nice thing is that unlike LOST, it does answer the big questions it asks.

    The show wraps up nicely, and if there is no second season, it leaves you feeling resolved and satisfied. However, it does set up a second season, and I am definitely looking forward to it.    … Expand
  10. Andremax
    Jul 16, 2018
    8
    Stranger Things 1st season has nothing boring for a show's debut, as it's usual in several series. The plot goes on around a conflict that change all story's course and which it's quite fluent too. And more, series has an 80's ambiance, nostalgic soundtrack, dark and nice photography, mystery, convincing and interesting theories (which is a big deal to sci-fi lovers) and accessibleStranger Things 1st season has nothing boring for a show's debut, as it's usual in several series. The plot goes on around a conflict that change all story's course and which it's quite fluent too. And more, series has an 80's ambiance, nostalgic soundtrack, dark and nice photography, mystery, convincing and interesting theories (which is a big deal to sci-fi lovers) and accessible approach that makes series very nice to anyone see.… Expand
  11. PoeticDumpling
    Jul 16, 2016
    8
    Not perfect and not likely to win awards, but it is well-crafted, thrilling, and really does take you back to feel the nostalgia of the 80's classic vibe really well. There are quality chilling moments. In addition to the obvious films/series it pulls from I also feel it is reminiscent of both the more recent excellent film, Midnight Special, and a really great cult-favorite film fromNot perfect and not likely to win awards, but it is well-crafted, thrilling, and really does take you back to feel the nostalgia of the 80's classic vibe really well. There are quality chilling moments. In addition to the obvious films/series it pulls from I also feel it is reminiscent of both the more recent excellent film, Midnight Special, and a really great cult-favorite film from only a few years ago called Beyond The Black Rainbow (the film was more artsy and not mainstream at all, but there are similar elements. BTBR is incredible if you can suss out the story on your own instead of being spoonfed). Some of the acting is a bit over-the-top and occasionally unintentionally funny, but I can overlook those flaws. For the most part the series has had me eager to watch all eight episodes as quickly as possible. It doesn't feel like a rip-off. It does feel like a loving echo of past classics pulled together in mosaic respect. As of now, my only feeling is that it doesn't necessarily offer much we haven't seen before, but offers it to us in an exciting, vintage fashion. I am about to press play on the final episode. This has been a fun rollercoaster ride. I am hoping for a second season. The creators, etc have already stated that season 2 will be more of a sequel cousin than a direct continuation of Season 1. We shall see. One strength is that there aren't alot of big name actors/actresses here so it really lends to the feeling of this being everyday folks experiencing an usual disturbance in their small town.… Expand
  12. ElPolloLoco82
    Jul 18, 2016
    8
    I found this show to be quite entertaining. Where the show shines is with the soundtrack and setting, reminded me so much watching trailers for horror movies from around the same time frame that the show is set in. There isn't much in the way of surprises, or twists. At least I didn't think so, and it didn't seem to take away from the quality of the show. The show centered mostly aroundI found this show to be quite entertaining. Where the show shines is with the soundtrack and setting, reminded me so much watching trailers for horror movies from around the same time frame that the show is set in. There isn't much in the way of surprises, or twists. At least I didn't think so, and it didn't seem to take away from the quality of the show. The show centered mostly around the younger actors in the show. They probably took up the largest amount of screen time while the rest of it was split up between parents of the children and their older siblings. It's kind of like "Super 8" in that regard; and also in other plot details, which is as far as I'll go with that because of "spoilers". I can see the "E.T." comparisons, but it was more like the two of those movies got busy and it's love child was this. Ultimately, I know a show that centers on children can turn some people off of this; in which case, they could easily annoy you and ruin this show. However, if the trailer intrigued you and you started it and are feeling a bit lukewarm towards it, it may take a couple episodes to get you vested in it. I feel by the end of the 3rd episode, you'll know for sure how you'll feel about the rest of it. I'd say this show is more emotional and character driven, then it would be story driven. Like I said earlier, it's a bit predictable story wise. Definitely a worthy addition to Netflix's list of shows. Don't know if it'll get a 2nd season; it's hard to see how they'd get another quality season out of it, but they did have some minor things at the end of the last episode that could lead into a similar situation occurring in the near future of the town.… Expand
  13. Chrisman26
    Aug 10, 2016
    8
    I kept dodgeing this show at first and wouldnt watch well now that i have given it a well deserved try i must admit my first impression was wrong here i love it only watched a few so far but it has been a delight pure fun joy and a few scares love the kids they work very well together if u dont mind a few swears and a few scares then this just might be the show for u )oh yea before iI kept dodgeing this show at first and wouldnt watch well now that i have given it a well deserved try i must admit my first impression was wrong here i love it only watched a few so far but it has been a delight pure fun joy and a few scares love the kids they work very well together if u dont mind a few swears and a few scares then this just might be the show for u )oh yea before i forget look out for some heavy makeouts in a few episodes if watching with kids)but aside from all of that grab some snacks and defenetly watch it… Expand
  14. FolderMath
    Dec 29, 2017
    8
    An exciting horror/thriller/mystery/drama that keep you hooked on it for dear life. When it's all said and done, there isn't much meaning to be extracted the whole shenanigan, other than to trust your loved ones completely and without compunction. The soundtrack threw me off a little at first, but it grew on me over time. The show has the best execution I've seen in a TV show in a longAn exciting horror/thriller/mystery/drama that keep you hooked on it for dear life. When it's all said and done, there isn't much meaning to be extracted the whole shenanigan, other than to trust your loved ones completely and without compunction. The soundtrack threw me off a little at first, but it grew on me over time. The show has the best execution I've seen in a TV show in a long while. One of my problems with the show, besides some of the loose ends in the third+fourth episodes that weren't completely tied up, in my opinion, was that some of the characters (Nancy and Jonathan in particular) act extremely stupid at times, just to provide plot interest and to keep the show moving forward. But other than that, it's a highly entertaining series that definitely deserves your time.… Expand
  15. SrPepe
    Oct 29, 2017
    8
    Muy buena serie, altamente recomendable. Sin embargo, me parece un tanto sobre valorada, esta buena? Sí, es un diez? Ni de cerca. Espero que la segunda la supere.
  16. sjulti
    Jan 6, 2017
    8
    This show was very interesting, it takes place in the 80s so ofcourse the soundtrack is amazing, i love the setting, and this show really makes you think, from the great performances to the overall feel of the show everything is pretty good about the show i guess the bad thing about this show is that it can get a bit boring at times or that some of the parts about the scientists i reallyThis show was very interesting, it takes place in the 80s so ofcourse the soundtrack is amazing, i love the setting, and this show really makes you think, from the great performances to the overall feel of the show everything is pretty good about the show i guess the bad thing about this show is that it can get a bit boring at times or that some of the parts about the scientists i really didint care for but overall a great show i cant wait to see if netflix brings out a second season.… Expand
  17. JTV
    Jul 22, 2016
    8
    Very interesting strange,fantasy,and story that is worth watching.In a small town 3 young boys are looking for a friend that gone missing and a mysterious girl shows up and try's her to help them and strange things start to happen.Great setting,good story, very good twist and weird.
  18. MEFzelder
    Aug 16, 2016
    8
    Una de las grandes sorpresas de Netflix es sin lugar a dudas “Stranger Things”, la serie que toma la estética del cine de los ’80, la narrativa de Stephen King, la estética de Spielberg, y el espíritu de Los Goonies es un thriller atrapante que deja con ganas de más.
    Cada episodio sobresale por su fotografía y su elenco, sobretodo por el aporte de los niños quienes dan una actuación    Una de las grandes sorpresas de Netflix es sin lugar a dudas “Stranger Things”, la serie que toma la estética del cine de los ’80, la narrativa de Stephen King, la estética de Spielberg, y el espíritu de Los Goonies es un thriller atrapante que deja con ganas de más.
    Cada episodio sobresale por su fotografía y su elenco, sobretodo por el aporte de los niños quienes dan una actuación sobresaliente para su edad, destacando a Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven).
    Ya sea por el aspecto nostálgico o lo popular que se ha vuelto, la formula de los hermanos Duffer es un obligatorio si pagas el servicio de streaming.    … Expand
  19. vmuniverse
    Jul 17, 2016
    8
    Winona Ryder nails it! Here performance is sublime! Her acting is great! Wellcome back Winona!
    Stranger Things is set in de beginning of the 80's This serie is well written and the acting is excellent.
    All the characters are performing well and believable! If you like the X-Files, you must certainly watch this show. Unfortunately new series these days lack special effects. I know they    Winona Ryder nails it! Here performance is sublime! Her acting is great! Wellcome back Winona!
    Stranger Things is set in de beginning of the 80's This serie is well written and the acting is excellent.
    All the characters are performing well and believable! If you like the X-Files, you must certainly watch this show. Unfortunately new series these days lack special effects. I know they have to cut cost to make a show, so the story has to be well written/acting. In this shoe there are special effects, but it's not very much.    … Expand
  20. Neopolss
    Aug 7, 2016
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Stranger things does an amazing job of presenting an era without beating the viewer over the head with pop culture references. The show accurately captures a lot of the societal norms that seem out of place today when it comes to the lack of parental supervision that many of the kids benefit from. The subject matter is engaging, but the CGI creature feels out of place for this style of series. The show could have benefitted from slowing its pace towards the end, as it races towards conclusion far too rapidly.… Expand
  21. naph67
    Jul 20, 2016
    8
    Very enjoyable show. Felt like watching a mix of The Goonies and the Outer Limits. Took me back to the 80s several times. I'm usually very skeptical of children actors but the cast was great.
  22. ShaunLewis54
    Jul 23, 2016
    8
    A great 80's styled horror show, that has a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, with interesting characters and great cinematography. a definite watch for any horror film , even for those that dont like horror either should give this a try.
  23. RickaHack
    Aug 8, 2016
    8
    En lo personal me parece buena serie ya que esta ambientada en los años 80´s la recomiendo a la gente que le gustan las series de suspenso o terror.
  24. reviewfrom19842
    Oct 8, 2016
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Stranger is an amazing show full with good acting, great charters and a interesting story

    Pros: the acting is amazing and even the kids go a good job In fact I think they did better then the adults, The charters are all likeable all fun to watch. The story was very good I was wounding were it was going to go like I had no idea they would "kill " one of the main charters in the 3rd episode. And when a charter dies you really care I was sad that Barb died and she only in the first 2 episode. That's good writing, it got me hooked to this show the very first minute.

    Cons: the over the top bully cliché is one of my least favorite cliché because it adds nothing to the story and can be easy written out and would not chance a thing. nothing else

    Chapter One: The Vanishing of Will Byers  10/10
    Chapter Two: The Weirdo on Maple Street 8/10
    Chapter Three: Holly, Jolly  7/10
    Chapter Four: The Body 8/10
    Chapter Five: The Flea and the Acrobat 9/10
    Chapter Six: The Monster 9/10
    Chapter Seven: The Bathtub 10/10
    Chapter Eight: The Upside Down 10/10    … Expand
  25. SomePersona
    Jan 30, 2017
    8
    Stranger Things is a very entertaining show. It's very formulaic, but it is still gripping all of the time with its sparks of science fiction, fantasy, and even horror.
  26. 100tifiko
    Dec 31, 2017
    8
    La historia, la ambientación, los personajes, los dialogos, la fotografia, todo en esta temporada fue casi perfecto, la disfrute muchisimo, la vi en apenas unos días y a pesar que algun episodio me parecio tonto y forzado (ep. 5) el resto me convenció al 100% a lo mejor quitando el final en si que no me gustó demasiado.
  27. AllanBarbosa
    Aug 20, 2017
    8
    With one of the best soundtracks of all tv series, Stranger Things is a great and tense show, even though there are some script errors and unclear characters, the series besides all, is one of the top 10 best shows of 2016-2017.
  28. tomrchuchill02
    Nov 8, 2017
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A high-quality production with high-quality actors and really cool scenes, story wise i would say It could have been better, the first season had moments that I felt long… Expand
  29. Felindie
    Jul 15, 2019
    8
    'Stranger Things' is fresh air, the production stands out with that 80s references.
  30. partyfavor
    Apr 25, 2018
    8
    A good show overall. Although maybe the hype of the people doesn't really help with uplifting the material itself. Not nearly perfect at all but the characters are lovable and the nostalgia it gives is special for me.
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Awards & Rankings

55
#55 Best TV Season of 2016
1
#1 Most Discussed TV Season of 2016
15
#15 Most Shared TV Season of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Aug 16, 2016
    80
    This is astoundingly efficient storytelling, eight hours that pass in a blink, with even minor characters getting sharp dialogue, dark humor, or moments of pathos.
    Read full review
  2. The Atlantic
    Reviewed by: Lenika Cruz
    Jul 26, 2016
    60
    There’s a higher bar for original stories--even homages--to clear when it comes to incorporating the lessons Hollywood has learned recently about depicting female characters who are as layered as their male counterparts. For all its charms, Stranger Things doesn’t quite meet that standard.
    Read full review
  3. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: Molly Eichel
    Jul 22, 2016
    80
    You'll turn on the first episode and mysteriously find yourself sitting in the same spot on your couch eight episodes later, never having moved an inch.
    Read full review
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