• 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:

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User Reviews

  1. Aug 5, 2016
    10
    Brilliant TV Show. By far the best horror tv series I've seen. The characters are brilliant, the acting is simply spectacular (you would expect that from Winona Ryder, but every single actor does a marvelous job), interesting plot (this coming from someone that's not a big fan of horrors), and incredible directing. Top notch TV show, can't wait for Season 2.
  2. 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
  3. 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.
  4. Aug 13, 2016
    10
    75 by the critics? Totally underrated by critics... Just don't listen to them! It is powerful, it is marvellous, it is a masterpiece! If you are from the 80's like me or not it is impossible not to like the series, it is so refreshingly good that puts anything else aside... If you start watching it, you are not going to stop... I mean it!
  5. Jul 19, 2016
    10
    If Super 8 was good and made into a TV show with a quantum twist, it wouldn't be as good as this. A combination of the good parts of Super 8 (not as operatic), seasons one and two of the X-Files, E.T. and the best 80s Synth I've heard since the 80s.

    Seriously, in my opinion, even the music is amazing.

    I am very happy I watched this.
  6. Aug 5, 2016
    10
    Amaazeballz.. Horror well done in a world of weak psychological buildup. I hope Netflix makes more seasons. Excellent characters and plot, and I don't thing this review needs qualification. It just stands as a good horror piece The atmosphere is outstanding.
  7. Jul 20, 2016
    10
    WARNING! Addiction is guaranteed!

    Not a single boring moment. No filler episodes. This show makes you laugh, cry, scared, suspenseful, intrigued, etc. Not a single dull moment, while paying homage to the 80s, which is the golden age of creative entertainment.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
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  10. Jul 20, 2016
    10
    One of the most well written sci-fi shows in quite some time. Fantastic acting from all involved even the children. Clear your schedule and watch this straight through, you can thank me later.
  11. 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 !!
  12. Aug 2, 2016
    10
    E.T. meets Silent Hill meets X-Files meets Dungeons and Dragons. Basically it's amazing. Excellent 80's influences without being dragged down by them. Great child actors. Great soundtrack and sound design. Great writing. Great everything. This show is pure fun, don't listen to the critics complaining about it being to slow or anything like that. It's perfectly paced, is just the rightE.T. meets Silent Hill meets X-Files meets Dungeons and Dragons. Basically it's amazing. Excellent 80's influences without being dragged down by them. Great child actors. Great soundtrack and sound design. Great writing. Great everything. This show is pure fun, don't listen to the critics complaining about it being to slow or anything like that. It's perfectly paced, is just the right length, and wraps together rather nicely, with an end that aludes to another season, but doesn't leave you hanging. Expand
  13. Aug 14, 2016
    10
    Great visual and musical design the really takes you back to the 80's. The style and storytelling are truly reminiscent of the great Spielberg films from that era, that delve heavily into an original adult sci-fi/horror/thriller narrative told from a kid's viewpoint. With the added plot line of the misunderstood loner and the smart-but-trying-to-fit-in girl, and with well-choreographedGreat visual and musical design the really takes you back to the 80's. The style and storytelling are truly reminiscent of the great Spielberg films from that era, that delve heavily into an original adult sci-fi/horror/thriller narrative told from a kid's viewpoint. With the added plot line of the misunderstood loner and the smart-but-trying-to-fit-in girl, and with well-choreographed 80's style powerful downbeat tunes in place of John Williams orchestral arrangement, you could say that this is a actually a cross of 80's Spielberg and Cameron Crowe.

    And it's fantastic.
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  14. Aug 13, 2016
    10
    One of 2016 best new series! Great lighting, style, 80's vibe, acting, story, camera and more. All of it is 100 percent perfect. Must see if you have Netflix. If not; Get Netflix now! :-D
  15. Jul 20, 2016
    10
    This show is a lot like Stephen Kings 'It' and 'The Stand' mini-series. It not only feels and looks like something from the 80's it has a great story and a lot of heart. I haven't enjoyed a horror series as much as this since the 90''s. It had me caring for the characters and cheering them on every step of the way. It also spooked me out a lot which hasn't happened since the 90's. IfThis show is a lot like Stephen Kings 'It' and 'The Stand' mini-series. It not only feels and looks like something from the 80's it has a great story and a lot of heart. I haven't enjoyed a horror series as much as this since the 90''s. It had me caring for the characters and cheering them on every step of the way. It also spooked me out a lot which hasn't happened since the 90's. If you're like me and grew up a huge fan of King, Koontz and McCammon you'll love Stranger Things. Expand
  16. Oct 29, 2018
    10
    Memorable characters. Very well-directed plot. A gripping storyline. A good abalance between gore and thrill. This was one perfect TV series!
  17. Nov 11, 2017
    10
    This is the SHOW of the years!! Amazing!
    The casting is extremely talented and just pure magic. The story is Perfect and the music fits perfectly to the setting. I recommend watching this tv show!
  18. Jul 24, 2016
    10
    Great show. Best child actors I've seen in a show/movie, great heroic sherif, right balance of scares and sci-fi, great 80s synth soundtrack. El is powerful and they don't hold back exhibiting the extent of her powers like most movies do. She uses them to their fullest potential as appropriate in the situations.
  19. Aug 31, 2016
    10
    An outstanding TV series with good old Stephen King, Spielberg and 80s vibe to it. Sci-fi thriller with bits of horror, drama and comedy thrown in... That somehow manages to be good at everything. Go watch it.
  20. 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.
  21. Oct 30, 2016
    10
    The acting, the mystery, the families, the theme, the 80's horror, There is nothing to dislike about this show. It functions more like a long form movie. It is a great television series. A must watch.
  22. Aug 17, 2016
    10
    Perfection personified into an eight episode TV series. Fantastic cast, cleverly directed and original storytelling. This is the best show I have watched in years! Forget the TV show you're currently watching and Netflix it now.
  23. 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 ;-)
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  24. 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.
  25. Jul 22, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Outstanding. The acting is excellent. I love the very real bond of the boys and 11. I'm assuming and really hoping she comes back next season. Truly, outstanding. Expand
  26. Jul 24, 2016
    10
    The perfect 80's movie that wasn't made in the 80's!

    This show is brilliant. It brought back all the fond memories I have of my favorite films growing up in the 80's. It's like a Stephen King novel reminiscent of IT and Stand By Me mixed with The Explorers and The Goonies and paying homage to movie greats like The Thing. The acting is top notch. The story interesting, intriguing and
    The perfect 80's movie that wasn't made in the 80's!

    This show is brilliant. It brought back all the fond memories I have of my favorite films growing up in the 80's. It's like a Stephen King novel reminiscent of IT and Stand By Me mixed with The Explorers and The Goonies and paying homage to movie greats like The Thing.

    The acting is top notch. The story interesting, intriguing and satisfying. The music score is fantastic.

    I highly recommend this brilliant series and hope there is a season 2.
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  27. 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.
  28. Jul 29, 2016
    10
    take
    my
    money

    .,, and release more of this as soon as possible! The soundtrack is outstanding. The cast is a mixture of unconsumed and talented. Usually I'm not a big fan of movies with children in main roles but this show taught me the opposite.
  29. Sep 2, 2017
    10
    +Fantastic homage to 1980s horror/sci-fi genre
    +Inspired 'spielbergian' /' stephen king' esque visual storytelling
    +Exceptional cast deliver top notch performances
    +Memorable soundtrack
    +Respects the viewers time to tell a good story
    -Feels like forever until season 2
  30. Jul 19, 2016
    10
    As a child that grew up in the 80s, Stranger Things took me back to some of my favorite movies back then like: The Goonies, The Explorers, Aliens, E.T., Poltergeist, etc... It is rare these days for me to get hooked into a show during the first episode! Stranger Things is one of those rare television series that you just can't stop watching! As I was enjoying the mysterious story thatAs a child that grew up in the 80s, Stranger Things took me back to some of my favorite movies back then like: The Goonies, The Explorers, Aliens, E.T., Poltergeist, etc... It is rare these days for me to get hooked into a show during the first episode! Stranger Things is one of those rare television series that you just can't stop watching! As I was enjoying the mysterious story that was unfolding on screen I was sucked in by the incredible setting, the awesome characters, and the fantastic art direction. Netflix has really outdone itself! Expand
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 34
  2. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.