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. 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
  2. Zanemorrowusa
    Jul 15, 2016
    10
    A spectacular mix of E.T., Super 8, X-Files, and more mystery supernatural Sci-Fi shows and movies. Stranger Things is powerful, stunning, and thrilling throughout the entire series.
  3. ScienceAdvisor
    Jul 18, 2016
    6
    Actual rating would be a 6.5/10 after having seen all eight episodes, unlike some that are reviewing after one or two.

    Stranger Things rides on music and props for the incessent claims that fill the reviews, of how nostalgic the show is. While it excels at achieving this in the music (11/10 for ambient, 10/10 on radio release), the rest is pure set-dressing. Once you realize that    Actual rating would be a 6.5/10 after having seen all eight episodes, unlike some that are reviewing after one or two.

    Stranger Things rides on music and props for the incessent claims that fill the reviews, of how nostalgic the show is. While it excels at achieving this in the music (11/10 for ambient, 10/10 on radio release), the rest is pure set-dressing. Once you realize that (towards the end of episode two for me), you begin to mentally filter the ambient (Carpenter-esque) mood music, leaving you with little to inspire actual nostalgia. The story falls *far* short from that mark, regardless of how promising it was the start. What seems like an interesting mix of classics, turns into a free-for-all, where anything and everything from the 80s seems to have been sourced. It would have been far better to pick two or three influences and just stick to those. The end result is something of a mess, and not nearly as satisfying as could have been hoped for at the start.

    The early episodes are so padded out that this should have been a six episode run, not eight. The characters are the purest cliches, and some of the set pieces were blatantly "borrowed", but without the gravitas that the originals became instant classics for (e.g. the Stand By Me kids walking down rail tracks). The entire last episode is a mix of Silent Hill and Alien, to the point where Netflix should be making sure that Fox does not own the IPRs to both of them. There is little the author/directors did not already use from the 80s which means the next season will have to start getting creative. Considering they did not show much creativity this season, I cannot expect it to hold this rating next year. That is unless chain smoking (even when not stressed), or continually calling a wrap regardless of the performance is now considered 'creative'.

    Also, disregard the claims of Goonies influence. Apparently the people claiming this did not pay attention to the fact that each Goonies was distinctly talented, required for the successful ending of the story, and most importantly, were fun. The kids in this one are nothing more than filler, unfortunately. Eleven is a speical case, and not one of the gang.

    Overall, it is watchable, though you can easily skip certain performances without losing any of the story. This season is a good time-waster, and could only be shown as on-demand so binge-watching with judicious use of fast forward (or skip) will allow you to minimize the padding. If it had been boiled down to six it probably would have been worth a 7.5.    … Expand
  4. DonMega
    Jul 17, 2016
    10
    PERFECT. Stunning show I'm lucky I didn't know about till it got released. If you like twin peaks with a little more sci-fi this show is for you. The casting is perfect, even the child actors are perfectly in what I think is the first time in movie history. They are very realistic, don't act like geniuses and are just kids. Also a good part is that every actor is an unknown for the mostPERFECT. Stunning show I'm lucky I didn't know about till it got released. If you like twin peaks with a little more sci-fi this show is for you. The casting is perfect, even the child actors are perfectly in what I think is the first time in movie history. They are very realistic, don't act like geniuses and are just kids. Also a good part is that every actor is an unknown for the most part, I haven't seen any of these people in any other show or movie which makes it feel very authentic.
    The story is original and very well made, its scientific, funny, exciting and gives you a rush at times. Watch it now.
    I binged watched the 8 episodes because I couldn't wait to see what happens at the end.

    One thing is that I hope they don't make a season 2, the show was perfect and everything was an unknown, making season 2 will not have the same effect.    … Expand
  5. 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
  6. AthanasiosT
    Jul 25, 2016
    10
    Stephen King met Steven Spielberg and decided to create a little something for TV... It's a plausible scenario considering the quality of screenplay and story in this tv show. It takes place in the 80s, has a group of kids playing DnD, running around in bikes, meeting strange adventures and will surely bring nostalgia to many of the viewers. Incredible work, don't miss it !!
  7. MadKiefer
    Jul 20, 2016
    10
    Solid 10. 8 episodes building up nicely and smoothly - as for what the show is about? Read below or watch a trailer. To anyone complaining that it's in the 80s: it only works that way BECAUSE it's set in the age of minor technological advancements. Otherwise, it'd be X Files 2016 or any other mediocre scifi, solving that **** in seconds ;)
  8. bloodybigguns18
    Jul 18, 2016
    10
    cant rate this show enough. I discovered it late at night and it hooked me in and kept me watching until 6 in the morning. the last show to do that to me was 24. a must watch show
  9. 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.
  10. rtoyra
    Jul 19, 2016
    10
    For me this was a perfect show. It was thrilling, scary and addicting, but managed to stay clear of angst. It had great characters: the kids, the teens as well as the adults. It gave food for thought, made me laugh out loud a few times and left an unexpected warm feeling behind after the last episode.
  11. Mydnighthype
    Jul 20, 2016
    10
    Incredibly suspenseful "light" horror without the blood and guts. This is able to be accomplished by the brilliantly written script and near perfect delivery from the cast. This production does an amazing job staying true to it's time piece. I feel completely transported back to the 80's in a way that seems very genuine and extremely accurate. There's that "do I or don't I click playIncredibly suspenseful "light" horror without the blood and guts. This is able to be accomplished by the brilliantly written script and near perfect delivery from the cast. This production does an amazing job staying true to it's time piece. I feel completely transported back to the 80's in a way that seems very genuine and extremely accurate. There's that "do I or don't I click play for the next episode even though it's 2 AM" after every single episode. THIS IS FOR SURE BINGE WORTHY!!!! Well done!… Expand
  12. 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.
  13. maxmooney
    Jul 26, 2016
    9
    What a great show! The few minor flaws are completely overshadowed by the abundance of greatness. The tone, pacing, acting (although Ryder was a bit shrill but then I've never lost a child), and music were equal to the throwback monster/sci-fi plot. Just finished the last episode but know repeat viewings are in my future. Oh, could have lived without Hazy Shade of Winter by The Bangles butWhat a great show! The few minor flaws are completely overshadowed by the abundance of greatness. The tone, pacing, acting (although Ryder was a bit shrill but then I've never lost a child), and music were equal to the throwback monster/sci-fi plot. Just finished the last episode but know repeat viewings are in my future. Oh, could have lived without Hazy Shade of Winter by The Bangles but that really is nitpicking… Expand
  14. Neelyry
    Aug 6, 2016
    10
    The best original Netflix series yet, right up there with Daredevil. A thrilling thought provoking rolling coaster that has you totally wondering what the **** is going on until they finally string it all together in last few episodes. The second season cant come soon enough.
  15. Drekassn
    Aug 23, 2016
    7
    This was totally decent. It's not the amazing life-changing show that a lot of folks seem to be making it out to be, but I enjoyed it when I was watching it, and I'm glad I can say I've seen it. My personal favourite thing about the show was the wonderful characterization involved. Everyone (well, the main characters, at least) had such an excellent depth to them and I loved how they allThis was totally decent. It's not the amazing life-changing show that a lot of folks seem to be making it out to be, but I enjoyed it when I was watching it, and I'm glad I can say I've seen it. My personal favourite thing about the show was the wonderful characterization involved. Everyone (well, the main characters, at least) had such an excellent depth to them and I loved how they all felt very realistic and dynamic the whole way through. The mystery was compelling and, while it certainly borrowed elements from other films and stories, I didn't feel like it was obnoxious about it and it had enough of its own flavour. The ending was reasonably satisfying without being saccharine and leaving a few threads open to interpretation. While I wouldn't say the story was mind-blowing, it was an entertaining way to spend two evenings so that's certainly good enough for me.… Expand
  16. mann808
    Jul 18, 2016
    9
    First off, if you were born in the mid to late 70's and grew up with movies like The Goonies, Monster Squad, and ET, this is a no brainer. Watch, reminisce, and enjoy! This show is a mixture of those movies with some Steven King mixed in. If you are in your late 30's to mid 40's. You'll love it!
  17. 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
  18. Rabidprimate
    Jul 18, 2016
    10
    Great series so far hits all the right notes for somebody who likes 80's sci-fi schlock. Brought back memories of movies like Goonies, Stand by me and IT. Strong show throughout i'd watch it again and will be looking forward to another season.
  19. kullystravels
    Jul 25, 2016
    10
    amazing! so I sat down to watch this show and I didn't know what to expect as I never saw a trailer and told to watch it by a friend. Not knowing what I was letting my self in for after 10 minutes I was hooked, it was liking watching Goonies for the very first time as a child and thinking OMG!!!
    I didn't move and was 4 episodes in and then had to find out what happened the next day!    amazing! so I sat down to watch this show and I didn't know what to expect as I never saw a trailer and told to watch it by a friend. Not knowing what I was letting my self in for after 10 minutes I was hooked, it was liking watching Goonies for the very first time as a child and thinking OMG!!!
    I didn't move and was 4 episodes in and then had to find out what happened the next day!

    This show really shows the best of 80s classic movies with an awesome soundtrack , think about that deep lying throughout Intersteller. If you could merge Goonies, ET, Close Encounters, Alien, Nightmare on Elm street and Stand by me this is what you would end up with and so brilliantly done.

    Well done and looking forward to the next season!    … Expand
  20. Dalek
    Aug 2, 2016
    10
    It's rare that I binge watch an entire TV show in an entire day, as I like to slowly TV shows slowly overtime so that it's easier to remember characters, the plot, etc. But Stranger Things is an exception, and I just had to watch the entire show in a day to find out what happens next. Really good characters, excellent synthesised soundtrack, with thrilling action and story. Can't wait forIt's rare that I binge watch an entire TV show in an entire day, as I like to slowly TV shows slowly overtime so that it's easier to remember characters, the plot, etc. But Stranger Things is an exception, and I just had to watch the entire show in a day to find out what happens next. Really good characters, excellent synthesised soundtrack, with thrilling action and story. Can't wait for season 2.… Expand
  21. Rappstr11
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    As a child of the 80's, I love the vibe and references. The group of young friends on an adventure, The monster Thriller, High school antics, and paranormal action. This is the most fun I 've had watching a TV show since Daredevil season 1. My favorite part is the show begins and end's with a D&D adventure.
  22. luis_matador_1
    Jul 25, 2016
    10
    You like supernatural movies or series? Yes? Then, you have to see Stranger Things, because is awesome. The Story, the characters, the mystery...all of that is fantastic.
  23. Bo33y
    Jul 26, 2016
    7
    Interesting. The story is like reading a Dean Koontz or a Stephen King, but it plods instead of shocks and this is largely due its Super 8 investment from its child actors causing the dialogue too suffer and draw. I don't even know what that rating is, perhaps it is a PG13? However it using certain adult themes, makes it a 15? Although this clearly is not even close to R horror due to itInteresting. The story is like reading a Dean Koontz or a Stephen King, but it plods instead of shocks and this is largely due its Super 8 investment from its child actors causing the dialogue too suffer and draw. I don't even know what that rating is, perhaps it is a PG13? However it using certain adult themes, makes it a 15? Although this clearly is not even close to R horror due to it lacking.

    The story is worth the time as it is an interesting combination and mix of a few different recognizable films and books, making it into a relatively enjoyable series, the plot certainly carries it. If you can forgive some of that other super 8, and twilight.    … Expand
  24. 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.
  25. smodcast
    Aug 31, 2016
    9
    A satisfying trip through 80's nostalgia that's warm, delightfully charming and at times, unsettlingly dark. One of the best Sci-fi experiences of 2016
  26. Turrican
    Jul 24, 2016
    10
    Nailed the "80´s" Style and Vibe, stunnigly good (Child) Actors, very interesting premise. Every Episode reveals on as much is needed to drive it to it ´s conclusion. Never giving away too much, so you keep wondering what is going on.

    This Show is not shying away putting everyone in controversial Situations that can ´t be catagorized in "Good / Bad" Only topped by "Mr. Robot" which    Nailed the "80´s" Style and Vibe, stunnigly good (Child) Actors, very interesting premise. Every Episode reveals on as much is needed to drive it to it ´s conclusion. Never giving away too much, so you keep wondering what is going on.

    This Show is not shying away putting everyone in controversial Situations that can ´t be catagorized in "Good / Bad"

    Only topped by "Mr. Robot" which is a completely other Beast (and revealing for the "real" World as the Matrix was - So please watch this next ;-)    … Expand
  27. opie100
    Jul 28, 2016
    10
    Show is tons of fun, with some great performances, particularly Mille Brown and David Harbour. It's not perfect, but closer to 10 than 9. Kick back with Schlitz and Whoppers and enjoy the 80s again. As long as you aren't expecting War and Peace you can't help but dig it.
  28. tigerskin84
    Sep 4, 2016
    9
    Great tv show, the performance of the kids is very very good, maybe winona ryder acting is a little exagerated and the series pay homage too many times but its fine, the great thing of this show is that makes you feel like a kid again watching the goonies or any other amazing movies
  29. Darth_Kane
    Aug 13, 2016
    10
    Best new series I've seen in a long time. The music, the atmosphere, the story, it all gives of that perfect 80s vibe. I'll be looking forward to season 2
  30. ToFewViews
    Aug 19, 2016
    9
    Stranger Things is a Netflix original full of suspense and scares. It's set in the 80's and feels just like it, It's a perfect homage to classic 80's horror/thriller movies.The series focus is a missing kid and how his mother and 3 friends try to find him. There is a huge amount of this show that will keep you questioning whats going on but that's what pulls you into this show the most.Stranger Things is a Netflix original full of suspense and scares. It's set in the 80's and feels just like it, It's a perfect homage to classic 80's horror/thriller movies.The series focus is a missing kid and how his mother and 3 friends try to find him. There is a huge amount of this show that will keep you questioning whats going on but that's what pulls you into this show the most. It's only 8 episodes but feels much longer and put together perfectly. The acting from the Kids and the boy's mother was perfect, One of the first times I saw a group of kids in a show and thought they acted like kids.The soundtrack to this show is almost amazing, they went to every extent to make sure this show felt genuine.This show is extremely well put together and enjoyable...for some people, if your easily scared from monster type scares or the creepy tone of the show you may want to steer clear.
    If your one of the few people who still haven't watched one of Netflix's best series of this year,I highly recommend you watch it.    … Expand
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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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