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. Forfithf
    Aug 29, 2016
    6
    This is good, but a long way off being great. I do wonder how appealing this show would be if it had a contemporary setting? I dont think i would have stuck with it to be honest. The core horror/sci-fi/fantasy element seemed very weak to me. The CGI effects were horribly out if place.Still, good acting, characterisation and a lot to appeal to children of the 80s such as myself.
  2. hopippolla
    Dec 28, 2016
    4
    If Stranger Things were a 3 part series with 20 minutes episodes, I think it might've been good.
    My main problem was with the characters and acting.
    After the second episode, the kids stop being cute, and every time there is a joke between them it feels extremely forced. The whole thing seemed too artificial for me to get inside the story and actually root for the characters or to let    If Stranger Things were a 3 part series with 20 minutes episodes, I think it might've been good.
    My main problem was with the characters and acting.
    After the second episode, the kids stop being cute, and every time there is a joke between them it feels extremely forced.
    The whole thing seemed too artificial for me to get inside the story and actually root for the characters or to let the story take me wherever it wanted.
    Suddenly, you find yourself surrounded by 80s references but without content and/or creativity to actually keep you engaged with the story.
    Just boring and easily forgetful.    … Expand
  3. A-A-Ron837
    Jan 4, 2018
    10
    This is a great, short, and easily bingeable show. It could've gotten by on pure 80's nostalgia, but it went the extra mile to have a great cast of characters, a compelling story, and a great soundtrack. Would definitely recommend, especially to fans of Steven Spielberg and Stephen King.
  4. DudeManGuy
    Jul 18, 2016
    5
    Welcome to the internet where everything is either the worst or best thing ever. This show is interesting due to the subject matter, but the execution is merely serviceable. The writing, acting(OMG Winona, stop), and scene pacing are among the most amateurish I've experienced in this "golden age of TV" we are experiencing. There are no characters that you will grow to like. They are allWelcome to the internet where everything is either the worst or best thing ever. This show is interesting due to the subject matter, but the execution is merely serviceable. The writing, acting(OMG Winona, stop), and scene pacing are among the most amateurish I've experienced in this "golden age of TV" we are experiencing. There are no characters that you will grow to like. They are all just... there. You understand their motivations, but there is very little actual personality on display.

    The show also wears all of it's influences on its sleeve, making it feel like homage rather than something unique or vital. If you grew up with 80s horror movies, Akira, ET, etc. you are probably going to roll your eyes at just how on the nose some of this stuff is. The title credits are even in the same font as Stephen King's as it appears on many of his novels. Stranger Things > Stephen King. Get it? Overall, the show is completely watchable if you can handle some of the sub par elements.    … Expand
  5. ryeca
    Aug 3, 2016
    6
    A few good suspenseful moments and some great young actors, but overall pretty boring and too reliant on the mystery-reveal to be called "Spielberg-esque." Also, I think the 80's-synth-remake vibe peaked at Drive, so let's just all calm down or everything is going to be John Carpenter+M-83+neon signage or Souvenir typography from here on out. Stranger Things has two episodes of contentA few good suspenseful moments and some great young actors, but overall pretty boring and too reliant on the mystery-reveal to be called "Spielberg-esque." Also, I think the 80's-synth-remake vibe peaked at Drive, so let's just all calm down or everything is going to be John Carpenter+M-83+neon signage or Souvenir typography from here on out. Stranger Things has two episodes of content stretched over eight; too much style over substance, but if you binge watch that's not a bad deal.… Expand
  6. tranemonk
    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
  7. zachisonreddit
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    Stop everything and watch this show right now. Yes, right this very moment. Do you want to feel nostalgic about 80's movies? Do you like good writing, talented actors, and a story line that makes you think and gets you to keep watching? Why are you reading this and not watching Stranger Things?!
  8. bradcheng
    Aug 2, 2016
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I only manage to accomplish that by "purge watching." It's my new term. It's the opposite of "binge watching" where you're apparently so enraptured by a show you can't stop watching. "Purge watching" is when you can't wait for a series to be over, so you use the fast forward button during the throw-away, tempo-killing scenes. A number of critics thought 8 hours devoted to the somewhat thin story of "Stranger Things" was excessive. I was thinking about the story in my head, and if it hadn't been given the soap opera drag out treatment, condensed down to a 2-hour movie it would have been even worse -- exposing more clearly the basic silliness and retread plot. The watered-down tempo helped what otherwise would have been Cream of Condensed Crap. You could claim running the same old numbers is in the name of "homage" or you could argue there's really not a lot of new ideas in the show. It's okay. But everyone seems to need to think they've found the next big buzz word (most of the times those are websites angling to stir up excitement) when maybe they've found an okay little show. Which is what Stranger Things is to me: an okay little show. From the first scene where the scientists get pulled upward into the elevator, dangled by an unseen beast, I went "ho hum." Like I haven't see that visual in a million monster films. An old clever show like the X-Files would have had a pair of eyes creepily material in the wall of an elevator and then maybe the doors close and a scream. That show as extremely creative at coming up with original ideas and images -- which is why it was a great show. But immediately I wasn't that impressed with the "Duffer Brothers" mise en scene. I need more "things I've never seen before" from Sci-fi. And little touches like the elevator scene are where true originals and moderate talents separate themselves.
    I nearly bailed completely on the series. Episode 3&4 were sluggishly directed by Shawn Levy, who is pretty much an incompetent as a stylist. By episode 4, it has completely lost the "vintage feel" and leaning on the influences of contemporary cable: Let's play a moving piece of rock music over a montage of the different actors staring thoughtfully into space. The music swells... It's the HBO Method of audience intercourse. A directorial cliche. Sorry, but this doesn't have the "feel" of a 70s or 80s production at all, maybe a bit in the opening episode or two, but it pretty much is quickly replaced by a run-of-the-mill cable show feel. Vintage Spielberg always had a very kinetic feel. 70s and early 80s films were riffing off the vibe of Altman, Pennebaker, Penn, but sanitizing them a bit and joking them up. The vibe of this series is probably closest in spirit to the lousy cheapie Steven King films, and not in a good way. It's a leaden feel. I'm still skeptical of the "tribue" aspect of this show The Winonna"Poltergiest" ripoff/tribute is the worst bit so far. So stupid. Where's the dwarf psychic? As I also noted they managed to pay "homage" to "Under the Skin" :Alien" "The Twilight Zone: and "Pan's Labyrinth" That's nostalgia? Hmmm. Honestly, is this really a tribute or is just the ultimate recycling job. If your pose a show as a tribute (and make sure to let people know up front to cover your tracks) does that eradication the icky "borrowing." I think a couple of producers (the Duffers you would assume) sat down and saidL "Yeah, I like the kid with powers from FireStarter, let's use that. (And also I hadn't gotten to the part where they even steal David Keith's nosebleeds from "Firestarter" at the time of my last comment) And the kids from "It". The whole kid thing from King. "Alien" was a great movie. How about goo? And we'll stay away from the afterlife and just make it a portal to another dimension...." Add Shaw Levy's teleplay staging (someone should let him know the camera moves) and it's all a bit snoozy. By the way, I also notice that the Duffer Brothers didn't write the series. They farmed out the episodes to a bunch of writer. Right there, their auteur status goes down the drain, IMO.    … Expand
  9. f2250255
    Aug 7, 2016
    2
    I don't know. I wanted to like it but the cliché characters and their cliché dialogues are too much to try to ignore. You got the same characters from every film here. It's like ET meets some common thriller meets It Follows meets Goonies. I mean there is Chunk (the fat stressed out kid), token, the smart leader kid that is perfect and beyond his intelligence level, bullying at school, theI don't know. I wanted to like it but the cliché characters and their cliché dialogues are too much to try to ignore. You got the same characters from every film here. It's like ET meets some common thriller meets It Follows meets Goonies. I mean there is Chunk (the fat stressed out kid), token, the smart leader kid that is perfect and beyond his intelligence level, bullying at school, the sister that is involved with a jock trying to get some action, the drunk cop guy who lives alone because of some marriage break up ...... zzzzzzzzz so done. OH but an 80s score and theme makes it hipster so now its new and creative ? zzzzz Foff give me a break how much BS can one deal with seriously. I get it, if some Silver Lake/ Echo Park hipster saw this then, yes, I understand that it will be successful because hipsters never lived in the 80s so now they are obsessed and super cut they didnt llive in the best era, but for the rest of us who did live the 80s this show S U C K S...… Expand
  10. EludiumQ36
    Aug 4, 2016
    2
    Wow, this User Review section is full of SHILLS! Anyone gushing that this is great and rates it 9 or 10 is out and out lying. This is a boring, slow-paced Goonies / X-Files rip-off that features Winona Ryder having a nervous breakdown episode after episode. So it's an awful combination of boring and aggravating. It's 8-eps long, about 50 long drawn out minutes each, and was clearlyWow, this User Review section is full of SHILLS! Anyone gushing that this is great and rates it 9 or 10 is out and out lying. This is a boring, slow-paced Goonies / X-Files rip-off that features Winona Ryder having a nervous breakdown episode after episode. So it's an awful combination of boring and aggravating. It's 8-eps long, about 50 long drawn out minutes each, and was clearly designed to watch as a VERY long movie rather than as a satisfying episode-by-episode serial. But seriously, you can feel yourself age due to the oh so slow pacing. Don't believe the shills and don't waste your time.… Expand
  11. TBall
    Aug 2, 2016
    3
    Welcome to ET meets Stephen King via The Breakfast Club. Nothing but ideas stolen from better films and shows. Winona Ryder has one level, manic turned up to eleven (no pun intended) and never dials it back. The kids are good but this is crap.
  12. weirdcryo
    Aug 16, 2016
    5
    Despite all the things copied from a lot of other things there is quality that we all expect from a Netflix show, considering it that it also has all the problems that Netflix shows are known from.
  13. daeneryswift
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    this series is a little jewel, literally! I loved it, every single moment of it. I finished it in two days (which is almost impossible for me). Great writing and great story! The whole '80s vibe, ADORE. The children were GREAT they left me speechless. And Winona too! Great comeback! Highly recommend it, it became one of my faves within the first ten minutes!!
  14. EHTZ28
    Jul 31, 2016
    10
    Oh boy, "critics" who give Stranger Things TV series a bad review are probably the same people who think the new Ghostbusters 2016 is a "cinematic masterpiece". LOL.

    See, these "critics" have forgot everything about compelling characters with clear motivations, a coherent plot, story arcs, a strong/mysterious villain with clear motivations etc. You know, the basic bits and pieces of    Oh boy, "critics" who give Stranger Things TV series a bad review are probably the same people who think the new Ghostbusters 2016 is a "cinematic masterpiece". LOL.

    See, these "critics" have forgot everything about compelling characters with clear motivations, a coherent plot, story arcs, a strong/mysterious villain with clear motivations etc. You know, the basic bits and pieces of good story telling?

    Do you like Stephen Spielberg's, John Carpenter's or Stephen Kings' movies from the 1980's? If you do, you will LOVE this series. The best TV series in years.    … Expand
  15. sciencebird
    Aug 4, 2016
    10
    This is the best show I have seen in a long time. After episode 2, I found myself thinking about the show and wondering what would happen next, something Preacher and Outcast failed to do. It does use 80s nostalgia quite a bit (which like), but the characters draw you in as does the mystery. Some elements of the action are difficult to believe, but the overall plot is so engaging it isThis is the best show I have seen in a long time. After episode 2, I found myself thinking about the show and wondering what would happen next, something Preacher and Outcast failed to do. It does use 80s nostalgia quite a bit (which like), but the characters draw you in as does the mystery. Some elements of the action are difficult to believe, but the overall plot is so engaging it is worth suspending judgment.… Expand
  16. Gustavito
    Feb 13, 2017
    1
    There were only 2 of the 20 characters I remotely wanted to watch. The other 18, starting with a very whiny Winona, and including brat kids trying to be cute, were painful. I don't sit in front of the tube to be irritated.

    Crappy plot: even if one tries to suspend belief and go with the flow, there are too many inconsistencies that do not add up logically.
  17. Artas
    Apr 8, 2017
    1
    There is nothing new in this!.
    maybe some say it nostalgiacal but problem is in this process of show. story become repetitious and after e3 or 4 !! it lost any advantage to making a greate show and become surprising .
    because slowly you gone to have this fill (or maybe just me !!) the story gone end well and all problems resolved Without any special cost. for start is notbad . but    There is nothing new in this!.
    maybe some say it nostalgiacal but problem is in this process of show. story become repetitious and after e3 or 4 !! it lost any advantage to making a greate show and become surprising .
    because slowly you gone to have this fill (or maybe just me !!) the story gone end well and all problems resolved Without any special cost.

    for start is notbad . but for nex seasons this way is not somthing can use all the potential.    … Expand
  18. Kilrymont
    Jul 15, 2016
    6
    It's okay but it's not going to run away with whatever takes the place of Oscars for TV programmes. Ryder overacts heavily - which she's prone to do in most shows/movies she's in, but this one does require some extreme reaction to extreme circumstances. So perhaps it's forgiveable to some extent.

    The first couple of episodes drag by at a snail's pace, with some acceleration in    It's okay but it's not going to run away with whatever takes the place of Oscars for TV programmes. Ryder overacts heavily - which she's prone to do in most shows/movies she's in, but this one does require some extreme reaction to extreme circumstances. So perhaps it's forgiveable to some extent.

    The first couple of episodes drag by at a snail's pace, with some acceleration in subsequent offerings. The kid appeal thing is core interest here, with the youngsters being the main protagonists, the policeman and mother of the missing boy coming next. Most of the other characters are cardboard cutouts, without any particular demands on their acting skills.

    Interested to see how this one develops - will it make it into second/third seasons? I doubt it somehow - this is more like a tale that will run its course and that'll be that. Netflix isn't that quick with follow ups, see the time it took for the 2nd season of Marco Polo to materialise. We'll see.    … Expand
  19. tvnewsguido
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    We've reached peak television. This show is mostly perfect.

    It is a nostalgia fest of synthesized soundtrack and Spielberg kids on a Sci-Fi adventure in their backyard. Unlike other recent attempts to emulate the period ('Turbo Kid' comes to mind), 'Stranger Things' Season 1 never gives into the urge to do an 80's parody. This IS an 80's movie and these same characters and    We've reached peak television. This show is mostly perfect.

    It is a nostalgia fest of synthesized soundtrack and Spielberg kids on a Sci-Fi adventure in their backyard.

    Unlike other recent attempts to emulate the period ('Turbo Kid' comes to mind), 'Stranger Things' Season 1 never gives into the urge to do an 80's parody. This IS an 80's movie and these same characters and performances would be at home in 'Poltergeist' or 'ET.'

    There are a few slow bits but, in 8 hours of content, a few slow bits don't amount to much when there's this much to enjoy.    … Expand
  20. benjaminoteko
    Aug 5, 2016
    0
    I do not understand why the hype is so much. This series is very predictable and uses all the clichés we expect in such films. I do not see anything ground-breaking in this TV show and I guess people like it because they haven't been exposed to great TV show.
  21. KyleBroflovski
    Aug 3, 2016
    0
    I'm truly baffled as to why anyone thinks this show is good even in the slightest. Maybe nostalgia has clouded our judgement. This show is terrible, apart from the soundtrack, which is phenomenal, there's nothing good about this show. It's a really bad show that heavily copies elements from a lot of movies and tv shows.
  22. reelsight
    Aug 2, 2016
    1
    Winona Ryder came back from no where to display her lame, wooden acting technique. The acting and script are so hackneyed in the first episode, I couldn't continue watching. Don't know how anyone could give this stinker a postive review.
  23. darkrock999
    Aug 8, 2016
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It had so much potential and they butchered them and instead we get to see a bunch of cliches that we could see a mile away which is the first of many problems. Another big problem is the character development which is a joke! I have not lived a long Life yet but it is still a bad sign if I say that the character development is the worst that I've seen and Will Byers is a great example of that. What I mean is that most adults and even less kids would make it out completely sane but not in this show! In the end he acted like nothing happened to him.

    This show was also afraid to kill anyone. I mean by the end of this show every good guy made it to the end. I was almost hoping for something bad to happen just so we could have one emotional moment. They attempted to have one moment when Eleven sacrificed herself (No,as far as we know she did not die since the hint at the end of the show.) but then Three month later no one that was with her the most even cared.

    The fourth biggest problem is the bad guys and I have to say that the bad guys are the biggest joke of them all. All that the writers revealed was that they do these things to compete with Soviet but would it not be interesting if the main villain revealed that he did it for another reason? But no,they killed him off. They could easily make the good guys surround the villain and to save his skin he would reveal why he did what he did but no.
    I could go on but I will say why it at least got one score,they managed to keep it exciting.    … Expand
  24. johnpaulwhois
    Dec 1, 2017
    0
    Even though it is only 9 episodes in the second season, Stranger Things is incredible from the surprising plot, to the incredible actors. Stranger Things is a show everyone should watch.
    The child actors in this show are incredible and they surprise me with every episode. Also the plot writers did such an amazing job; you will always be wanting more. This is definitely a show I would    Even though it is only 9 episodes in the second season, Stranger Things is incredible from the surprising plot, to the incredible actors. Stranger Things is a show everyone should watch.
    The child actors in this show are incredible and they surprise me with every episode. Also the plot writers did such an amazing job; you will always be wanting more. This is definitely a show I would push anyone too watch. Just take a few hours out of your life and delve into this show. Believe me you will not regret it.    … Expand
  25. desertinutah
    Jun 4, 2018
    0
    Stranger Things is an excellent production with exceptional actors. In fact, it's good to see Winona Ryder back. The script and photography are also outstanding. Watching the first season on Apple TV, I noted similarities with other movies and television shows. The foundation of the piece involving four friends has the familiarity of the friends in Stephen King's book and movie, It. ThereStranger Things is an excellent production with exceptional actors. In fact, it's good to see Winona Ryder back. The script and photography are also outstanding. Watching the first season on Apple TV, I noted similarities with other movies and television shows. The foundation of the piece involving four friends has the familiarity of the friends in Stephen King's book and movie, It. There are overlays of the X-Files, Jeepers Creepers, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The monster is reminiscent of the space creature from the Alien franchise. Aside from those comparisons, there are several things that would prevent me from recommending it for children: product placement (of junk food, no less), which I realize is inevitable, and the fact that numerous actors smoke while several of the main characters are chain-smokers. I'm not quite sure if that's a spoof of the "smoking man" from the X-Files or another product placement. The tobacco companies can't advertise on television, so television shows take place decades previously when far more people smoked. Now, to me, that is creepy and disgusting. Oh, yes, and there's the gratuitous teen sex.… Expand
  26. Kool4Kats
    Jul 17, 2016
    4
    Pays homage to the 1980's movies which featured science fiction themes and young kids. Also shows like "Eerie Indiana" and "Twilight Zone" were big influences. As far as the acting goes, it is generally good except for Winona Ryder who is constantly shrieking her lines and brings the entire production down.
  27. AryamanS
    Feb 16, 2017
    0
    Overrating shows has a limit and STRANGER THINGS has crossed it. From the characters, to the grim settings and the dark story line. Though, the performances are top notch. I would not suggest this as 'must-see TV'.
  28. Max_Headroom
    Jul 26, 2016
    0
    Not good. Am I the only person that things this show was horrible? I never write reviews for movies, but seeing all the glowing reviews, I had to put my two cents in. I watched Stranger Things over the weekend. I can't mince words, this movie sucked! Winona Rider is terrible!!! No one has even spoken about her since she stole that stuff from that store. It has B and C list actors. TheNot good. Am I the only person that things this show was horrible? I never write reviews for movies, but seeing all the glowing reviews, I had to put my two cents in. I watched Stranger Things over the weekend. I can't mince words, this movie sucked! Winona Rider is terrible!!! No one has even spoken about her since she stole that stuff from that store. It has B and C list actors. The plot and dialog are so lame. The arguing between the young boys is dumb. The scientist and the people that work at the lab and their relationship with the girl and the back story is just stupid.… Expand
  29. noirfx
    Jul 27, 2016
    5
    The biggest mystery of this show is how the hell it gets so overrated. Everything in it except the 80 's atmosphere is boring and what's worse, annoying. Characters made stupid decisions all the time, there is no plot twists or unexpected turns, you can easily predict the whore show after watching first 3 episodes. Acting is terrible most of the time, child acting looks silly, Winona isThe biggest mystery of this show is how the hell it gets so overrated. Everything in it except the 80 's atmosphere is boring and what's worse, annoying. Characters made stupid decisions all the time, there is no plot twists or unexpected turns, you can easily predict the whore show after watching first 3 episodes. Acting is terrible most of the time, child acting looks silly, Winona is overacting. 30% of the whole show is taken by love story that is lame and too cliched. CGI is pure garbage. At first I was intrigued, then I was disappointed, but watching 2 last episodes was torture. This show is cheap and dull, I'd never gave it rating more than 5 out of 10 and I would never suggested to watch it to anybody. This was complete waste of my time.… Expand
  30. mariaj21
    Oct 31, 2017
    0
    Everything love in the story, except that the kids are using too much profane language unnecessarily. I'll give a 9 out of 10 just for the language used for the kids.
  31. Razv
    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.
  32. Rodrigo_31
    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!
  33. TheQuietGamer
    Dec 28, 2016
    9
    Clearly inspired by the likes of Spielberg, Stephen King, and really any of the great minds behind the best sci-fi and horror of the 80's had to offer, Stranger Things is much more than just a good throwback. It stands out on it's own two feet with an excellent plot and characters. The eight episodes allow for no downtime. Something I can't praise enough. The thrills, chills, twists, andClearly inspired by the likes of Spielberg, Stephen King, and really any of the great minds behind the best sci-fi and horror of the 80's had to offer, Stranger Things is much more than just a good throwback. It stands out on it's own two feet with an excellent plot and characters. The eight episodes allow for no downtime. Something I can't praise enough. The thrills, chills, twists, and reveals just keep on coming.

    One of the main things that works here is that it manages to fit in the human stories to go alongside the more abnormal events happening around these characters town. Every member of the cast is playing a real and complex character. One that is entirely believable. Occasionally their short-tempered ways of speaking to one another do get on your nerves, especially where the kids are concerned, but I still cared about everyone onscreen.

    You don't have to be a child of the 80's or familiar with the movies, TV, and other forms of entertainment that inspired this show to enjoy the show. Those sort of things are just kind of an extra pat on the back. Things wrap up satisfyingly, but leave you with just enough questions to keep you coming back. This is just darn good TV and another win for Netflix originals.    … Expand
  34. 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
  35. blackcowboy
    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
  36. rmedway
    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.
  37. artnat
    Aug 26, 2016
    10
    Stephen King meets X-Files, meets Carpenter, meets Twin Peaks.

    It's not groundbreaking, it's not revolutionary but this is just great quality TV. While not revolutionary delivery of all elements is stellar. Yes, it's full of cliches, it's predictable at times but the atmosphere, setting, casting and script are solid.The child actors are amazing in this thing which is a rarity. The    Stephen King meets X-Files, meets Carpenter, meets Twin Peaks.

    It's not groundbreaking, it's not revolutionary but this is just great quality TV.

    While not revolutionary delivery of all elements is stellar. Yes, it's full of cliches, it's predictable at times but the atmosphere, setting, casting and script are solid.The child actors are amazing in this thing which is a rarity. The music deserves a soundtrack and I am not talking the hits played, which must have cost a fortune, but the original score.

    Shame this season had only 8 episodes.

    I give it 10/10 not because it's a classic timeless series. I give it 10 because it is one of the most fun live action shows I've seen for quite some time and none of the problems I described lessen the overall experience.    … Expand
  38. TallyWacker
    Aug 5, 2016
    10
    For lovers of horror, Cabin in the woods (2011, Drew Goddard) posed a question. Now 5 years on the Duffer Brothers have answered that question, with an authentic supply of nostalgia, accompanied by its own SI-Fi twist. Stranger things mirrors popular 80's horror/thriller, while taking the fear out of the homes of suburbia and replacing it with far more relevant extraterrestrial enigmas.For lovers of horror, Cabin in the woods (2011, Drew Goddard) posed a question. Now 5 years on the Duffer Brothers have answered that question, with an authentic supply of nostalgia, accompanied by its own SI-Fi twist. Stranger things mirrors popular 80's horror/thriller, while taking the fear out of the homes of suburbia and replacing it with far more relevant extraterrestrial enigmas. The fear of the unknown is yet to be suffocated and exploited by HollyWood to the point of cliche. Making for a truly real and applicable fear. This combine with a clean sense of direction and production makes for an extremely enjoyable watch, horror fan or not, defiantly worth your time.… Expand
  39. dr_heartless
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    Flawless pops into my mind every time I think about Stranger Things. The story, art direction, music and acting are all amazing. Don't miss out on this gem!
  40. DavidV293
    Aug 31, 2016
    10
    The most fantastic Netflix Original Series this year. Enjoyed the whole thing from start to finish. The performances were incredible and the story is just amazing. I actually finished it twice and I'm just here waiting for Season 2. Thank you Netflix for bringing this masterpiece into my eyes. The best Sci-Fi series I have ever seen.
  41. 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
  42. Ardipithecus
    Aug 26, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Una excelente serie, todo magnifico, la fluidez de la historia la hace muy interesante, le coloco 9 ya que haber matado a barb no fue lo mas sabio, barb era un personaje que pudo haber sido mas importante en la historia y que por culpa de nancy tuvo que morir, en cuanto a los personajes, los niños son grandes actores y saben interpretar bien sus roles, aunque lucas me parece un personaje irrelevante, lo unico que hace es quejarse y criticar a los demas, cosa por la cual fuese preferido que el se fuese ido a la otra dimension y no will, pero a pesar de eso, la serie hace que te enganches con ella, lo confirmo ya que la vi toda en un dia, magnifico trabajo, espero que la segunda temporada sea mejor, y le den a jonathan a quien se merece, ya que nancy por mala amiga y cinica se merece a steve, que a pesar de todo es un buen muchacho rodeado de un circulo de personas negativas.… Expand
  43. Elmacro
    Oct 22, 2016
    10
    Good very Good good very good good very very good very good. Es una excelente serie desde el inicio hasta el fin recuerda totalmente los 80cccccccccccccccccscacascscxscascsa
  44. steveyme
    Sep 30, 2016
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Started quite well then went downhill. It's just the usual sci-fi pap that TV is ruthlessly efficient at creating. Nothing in this series will surprise you if you are over 20. No twists, everything can be seen coming a mile off. Cliche upon cliche: 'The man' conducting experiments, a nose that bleeds under stress, another darker reality, locks that broken by rocks, school bullies who come good, girls who fire guns better than the guys. Plenty of people will love this. I did not.… Expand
  45. felokm
    Apr 20, 2017
    10
    This tv series by Netflix is awesome!, reminded me of the movie of J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg, Super 8. Stranger Things is one of the most thrilling and intense series than i never watch, has drama, fantasy and horror, you get into the characters and the performance of Winona Ryder is brilliant.
  46. Raekz
    Oct 7, 2017
    9
    A hommage to all the wonderful fantasy and sci-fi films of the 1980 paired with thriller-elements that could have come directly out of Stephen Kings mind: 'Stranger Things' is a perfect mix between entertainment and substance.
    The complete cast has done a very good job in acting their characters where each of them has his own background story, that is telled so detailed that you can    A hommage to all the wonderful fantasy and sci-fi films of the 1980 paired with thriller-elements that could have come directly out of Stephen Kings mind: 'Stranger Things' is a perfect mix between entertainment and substance.
    The complete cast has done a very good job in acting their characters where each of them has his own background story, that is telled so detailed that you can really comprehend each decision anyone is making; the music fits the scenes and their atmospheres very well and goes from 80's Rock to stunning and thrilling synthie-sounds; the animations and effects are on a very high level and the plot is mysterious and supernatural in a way that it entertains but stays realistic.
    At some few moments it's a bit too much a cheesy and cliched 80's-Lovestory, but I think that's only my subjective opinion.
    So all in all 'Stranger Things' is a sci-fi-fantasy-drama that everyone loving the sci-fi-classics of the 80's or being a fan of high-level-produced mystery-/fantasy-thriller should watch.    … Expand
  47. 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.
  48. 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
  49. Fallout222333
    Nov 25, 2017
    10
    This show managed to be one of the greatest pieces of 80s culture without ever being in the 80s. The feel is so right. The music, clothes, hair, cars, talk, its all 80s and none of it (well maybe some of it) feels faked. The plot of the show also ends up feeling like a Stephen King novel or a mix of a few made into a show. The feeling and mood has a small town with a twist of corruptionThis show managed to be one of the greatest pieces of 80s culture without ever being in the 80s. The feel is so right. The music, clothes, hair, cars, talk, its all 80s and none of it (well maybe some of it) feels faked. The plot of the show also ends up feeling like a Stephen King novel or a mix of a few made into a show. The feeling and mood has a small town with a twist of corruption feel to it that really grips the audience, especially myself since Hawkins almost feels like my town. The show also includes some fantastic actors (several being child actors who blow it out of the water, they steal the show). The characters feel completely real with the way they talk and go about their day. It almost feels like I could meet a much older version of some of these people in today's world which just goes to show how well they are written. Basically go watch the show.… Expand
  50. bdu754
    Aug 10, 2018
    0
    The show is highly overrated. Unless you like 80's references, this show is not for you.
  51. M0NST3R_G4MING
    May 3, 2019
    10
    10/10 - Stranger Things is one of the best shows I've ever seen.

    Stranger Things conveys the flair of the 80s very well. This is conveyed for example with the typical dress style of the 80's or with typical 80's games like "Dungeons & Dragons", which was very popular at that time. In addition, this is then linked with foreign monsters. Everything seems very mysterious, which makes the    10/10 - Stranger Things is one of the best shows I've ever seen.

    Stranger Things conveys the flair of the 80s very well. This is conveyed for example with the typical dress style of the 80's or with typical 80's games like "Dungeons & Dragons", which was very popular at that time. In addition, this is then linked with foreign monsters. Everything seems very mysterious, which makes the show even better.

    To now come to the acting performance in Stranger Things: The acting performance is perfect. The characters Eleven, Dustin, Mike, Lucas and Will are played by five teenagers. Because they are still kids in real life, they can put themselves into the roles very well. This is noticeable in every episode. Over time, the characters really grow on you. You start to love them.

    Story: The story in Stranger Things is highly interesting and exciting. I was never bored watching the show, because the story fascinated me very much. There's nothing like a "Filler-Episode" (which only extends the length of the series and doesn't really contribute to the story) in Stranger Things. Every single episode contributes to the plot. It always remains thrilling. And because the series follows a "thread", the addiction potential is very high. You just always want to know how it goes on.

    Effects/Animations: The effects and animations in Stranger Things are wonderful. They look very good and everything is displayed really well. You can put yourself into the series even better. The "monsters" in the series are also very well animated. This made them very scary.

    Conclusion: The series is perfect. Stranger Things is definitely one of my favourite series and I can definitely recommend it to anyone. The series is not creepy (which it doesn't want to be either), but very exciting in every episode. In my opinion it's a show you have to see. Full recommendation to watch!    … Expand
  52. Justinavery7074
    Oct 2, 2018
    8
    We all crave 80's nostalgia but here it is actually done well. Good, lively characters
  53. 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.
  54. 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.
  55. 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
  56. tr1cky1
    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.    … Expand
  57. mugen_is_here
    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!
  58. ronaldohero
    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!
  59. Danil
    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.
  60. TimW001
    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.
  61. lager96
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    Stranger Thing season one came out of no where. I had never seen any of the promotional advertising and that is exactly what I wanted. From the opening scene I was sucked into this world and the story that the Duffer Brothers created. It is very obvious that they took inspiration from people like Steven King and Steven Spielberg, which in my opinion, is a great thing. They blended the twoStranger Thing season one came out of no where. I had never seen any of the promotional advertising and that is exactly what I wanted. From the opening scene I was sucked into this world and the story that the Duffer Brothers created. It is very obvious that they took inspiration from people like Steven King and Steven Spielberg, which in my opinion, is a great thing. They blended the two styles seamlessly and made a fantastic story out of it. The emotional beats in the show are heavily felt as I found myself crying on multiple occasions. While there could have been a bit more originality, this show starts this series off right.… Expand
  62. 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
  63. temptershell
    Oct 28, 2017
    9
    One of the best shows about the 80s in the last years. Great characters, fantastic visual effects and a tense storyline. It must be added that the soundtrack is phenomenal.
  64. Charlemagne
    Aug 25, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So the show is very good (I just binge watched the whole thing), but...

    That monster is seriously low quality. It's not even frightening because it is such low quality - both the low budget cgi look and the 'character/spirit/soul/art' of the thing. It reminds me of a low budget Resident Evil monster. Aliens - now _that_ is a monster!

    Also I don't appreciate them ripping stuff off (aka 'paying homage', aka 'fan service'), it takes you out of the immersion.

    And the rules of the upside-down don't make any sense. If this monster is flesh and needs to eat (and breed) then what has it been eating in the upside-down... if the creature is as presented then there should be an army of them and an ecosystem of other creatures. Also the upside-down had to have become a copy of the real world at a fixed point in the past (which isn't compatible with the 'monster as animal' narrative), because it's not a continuous copy of the inanimate real world (without people) because the inanimate real world things in it can be changed without changing the real world. A parallel universe inhabited by people that was invaded by monsters isn't possible either because that world would have diverged significantly over the invasion and subsequent fighting. The upside-down is presented as a mash-up of bad dreams where nothing needs to make sense... and ends up not being scary or immersive because it's not believable to the thinking awake viewer.

    Also it's good that they mention MKUltra... maybe some people will look it up after watching the show. But they presented a greatly toned down version of it compared to the real thing - isn't fiction suppose to exaggerate reality? Since when do you tone it down? When the reality is so horrible that people would avert their eyes to preserve their comfortable illusions (costing the show makers money). MKUltra wasn't just the US government feeding _volunteers_ LSD... it was experiments conducted on unwilling Americans and Canadians by both countries that ran until they were dead or driven insane.    … Expand
  65. JulianIncen
    May 5, 2019
    7
    Yes, there are a lot of references and cameos about 80's films that most people love, and I think that had an impact on new generations and people of that era. The fact that the protagonists are charismatic also contributes to this media boom that formed around the show.
  66. user4msun
    Sep 23, 2016
    10
    i watched it with my 8 year brother,usually he doesn't like any TV series but with this he was hooked like anything ,it is a love story for fans of sci-fi,fantasy.it was thrilling right from the start to the end.
  67. Basquilly
    Sep 11, 2016
    10
    I'm always wary of shows or movies that rely so heavily on child actors/actresses, but the performances from all of the young cast in Stranger Things are excellent. The combination of strong storytelling, great characters and a phenomenal soundtrack sets this show apart from the crowd. My only gripe with season one is that Winona Ryder has a tendency to overact at times. For the most partI'm always wary of shows or movies that rely so heavily on child actors/actresses, but the performances from all of the young cast in Stranger Things are excellent. The combination of strong storytelling, great characters and a phenomenal soundtrack sets this show apart from the crowd. My only gripe with season one is that Winona Ryder has a tendency to overact at times. For the most part however, she puts in a great performance on par with the rest of the cast. Standout performances come from David Harbour as Chief Hopper, and the young Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven.… Expand
  68. Pizzafork
    Aug 19, 2016
    10
    Amazing, I loved every moment. I watched the entire series in one day and when it was over I could have watched it again straight away.

    Great acting from everyone especially from the little girl who plays the character 'five'. I can not find one negative thing to say about this show except perhaps that it's over and I need more of it... Like right now please. Watch it now if you    Amazing, I loved every moment. I watched the entire series in one day and when it was over I could have watched it again straight away.

    Great acting from everyone especially from the little girl who plays the character 'five'.
    I can not find one negative thing to say about this show except perhaps that it's over and I need more of it... Like right now please.

    Watch it now if you have any affinity for the 80's and sci-fi.    … Expand
  69. javigpalao
    Aug 4, 2016
    9
    Fantastic. Full of tributes (Spielberg, George Lucas, Stephen King, John Carpenter...), and fun. Terrifying and entertaining with a perfect cast, and crew. Nice work in classic style.
  70. diegonelli
    Jan 29, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'M ALWAYS LATE FOR EVERYTHING, so I just finished the season. I want to say that I don't usually watch series but this one was really really amazing. When Eleven disappeared at the final episode I was like!?!?!?! I need to know what happens with her. Can't wait to the second season.… Expand
  71. MrWonderful
    Aug 9, 2016
    10
    It's the goonies meets the poltergeist in the Twilight Zone. A show that has Joy Division as part of the soundtrack is A+ in my book. Good acting, good story.
  72. DLight03
    Aug 12, 2016
    9
    Excellent first season in a fresh, new original series. As everyone has already said many times over, this show feels like a genuine time piece from 1980s movies. It's really, really good and feels less like a TV show and more like a movie as you're watching it (when you're done, you won't be able to remember episodes as much as you will scenes and narratives). The child cast in this movieExcellent first season in a fresh, new original series. As everyone has already said many times over, this show feels like a genuine time piece from 1980s movies. It's really, really good and feels less like a TV show and more like a movie as you're watching it (when you're done, you won't be able to remember episodes as much as you will scenes and narratives). The child cast in this movie is spectacular from top to bottom, and none of their lines feel phony or forced, as is often a problem with child actors. Awesome.… Expand
  73. lucasg_
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    A série é maravilhosa, eu já vi a primeira temporada duas vezes e eu achei o final genial, sem clichês ou demais fatores previsíveis. O final deixou uma abertura para a segunda temporada que já já será lançada e eu espero mais uma história autêntica, genuína, contando com maravilhosas atuações, com um roteiro impecável e efeitos especiais de dar inveja em quaisquer emissoras. Obrigado eA série é maravilhosa, eu já vi a primeira temporada duas vezes e eu achei o final genial, sem clichês ou demais fatores previsíveis. O final deixou uma abertura para a segunda temporada que já já será lançada e eu espero mais uma história autêntica, genuína, contando com maravilhosas atuações, com um roteiro impecável e efeitos especiais de dar inveja em quaisquer emissoras. Obrigado e amém Netflix e Irmãos Duffer.… Expand
  74. brpoconnor
    Jun 9, 2022
    9
    There's not really much to say. This show is excellent. The casting is great, the scene and costume design are great, and the production is great. It's an easy recommendation
  75. XenoJake
    Oct 2, 2016
    10
    Absolutely blew me away. Amazing. The nostalgia, the feels, the music. Brilliantly done, gives me that feeling I get when the weather is overcast and windy and the smell of rain draws near.
  76. furkan36411
    Oct 2, 2016
    10
    this serial's story is awesome and mysterius and when watching the final the serial is giving hint to you for 2nd season so this is my favourite serial of all time ı loved this ı can't wait to 2017 for 2nd season!!!!!
  77. Rardoniel
    Oct 7, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This series combines a bit of E.T. with that thing about the X-Files I really like but also can't name.
    I think the big PRO for Stranger Things are the actors who really add a lot in the authenticity department, for example Winona Ryder as the mom of Will, going completely insane throughout the series.
    But also the classic "ain't got nothing to do" Sheriff Hopper, who, as the series progresses, dives deeper and deeper into this government organized plot.
    In my opinion of the best series out there atm.    … Expand
  78. Borgoros
    Sep 30, 2019
    10
    Loved it all the way from start to finish! Scary, funny, mysterious, good acting, cool music and fantastic plot!
  79. ComandanteCobra
    Sep 19, 2016
    4
    I find it a little hollow.
    Certainly isn’t a bad production , but I find it linear and predictable.
    This dullness it is not caused by old school tv homages but it is caused by one dimensional characters laking interiority and growth....the fact that almost all of the "thriller" sequences are easily spotted way before they happens on screen...some plot holes....some overacting. 80's    I find it a little hollow.
    Certainly isn’t a bad production , but I find it linear and predictable.
    This dullness it is not caused by old school tv homages but it is caused by one dimensional characters laking interiority and growth....the fact that almost all of the "thriller" sequences are easily spotted way before they happens on screen...some plot holes....some overacting.
    80's reference are there but aren't well integrated into the story and they feels inessential.. so they did not trigger a Nostalgia Effect on me    … Expand
  80. Dzimas
    Jul 30, 2016
    9
    It was my daughter who suggested we watch this series, as there wasn't much else to choose from that we hadn't already seen on Netflix. Not only was I pleasantly surprised by the well-conceived narrative, but I found myself actively engaged in spotting all the cinematic references in this series.

    The most obvious is Spielberg. It's kind of a Goonies meet Poltergeist on the surface,    It was my daughter who suggested we watch this series, as there wasn't much else to choose from that we hadn't already seen on Netflix. Not only was I pleasantly surprised by the well-conceived narrative, but I found myself actively engaged in spotting all the cinematic references in this series.

    The most obvious is Spielberg. It's kind of a Goonies meet Poltergeist on the surface, but the Duffer Brothers also dig deep into fantasy novels, games, comic books and music of that era to create a wonderful facsimile of the early 80s.. The kids steal the show. It is a casting director's dream to find such young previously unheard talent. The four boys come together as effortlessly as Carl Reiner's lads from Stand By Me. Add in their passion for Dungeons and Dragons and Lord of the Rings, and you can't help but be swept away by this series.

    My only real disappointment was Winona Ryder. She was a great casting call, given her late 80s pedigree, but her voice is irritating beyond belief. I don't know if this is what she sounds like now or this was what she felt a distraught mother sounds like, but it is like scratching a chalkboard. She has her moments, like stringing up all the Christmas lights to communicate with her lost son, but for the most part she is insufferable to watch.

    David Harbour is excellent as a sheriff who found a small town to hide out in, thinking nothing bad could possibly happen here. Unfortunately for him, he runs up against the worst sort of evil that turns your world literally upside down. While the kids carry most of the load, Sheriff Hopper keeps this narrative grounded. His initial distance and ultimately his total commitment provide just the right balance to a series of unfortunate events spinning wildly out of control.

    I am also glad the Duffer Brothers didn't take themselves too seriously. Gaten Matarazzo has the best lines and makes the most of them. Hard to believe he had only one television appearance before this. He becomes the de facto leader of the group, largely thanks to his ability to keep things in perspective thanks to his robust knowledge of the fantasy world and his ability to quickly assimilate scientific principles. His phone call with the science teacher was priceless.

    Millie Brown is probably the most seasoned young actor, but oddly distant in her role as Eleven.. As my daughter pointed out, you don't feel as much for her as you feel you should, but that is in large part because she remains an "alien force," or wierdo, as Dustin calls her. She reminded me a bit of Saoirse Ronan in Hanna.

    Taken as a whole, Strangers Things comes together nicely. The ending could have been a bit stronger, but I assume we will learn more in the second season, once the folks at Neflix have let the show "breathe a little bit."    … Expand
  81. SirBill
    Aug 11, 2016
    10
    The best TV show I have seen in a long time, many of the negative reviews seem to confuse the occasional homage and fun references with ripping off something. The show has it's own vibe and story, and while it may be kind of predictable just enough happens to throw you off that you are never sure. For me it was a perfect blend of amazing music, great story, great staging, great visuals,The best TV show I have seen in a long time, many of the negative reviews seem to confuse the occasional homage and fun references with ripping off something. The show has it's own vibe and story, and while it may be kind of predictable just enough happens to throw you off that you are never sure. For me it was a perfect blend of amazing music, great story, great staging, great visuals, and an exploration of childhood all rolled into one... especially good if you don't need everything spelled out for you explicitly.

    As others have noted the acting is great across the board, especially the kids which is pretty amazing for any show much less and extended serial.    … Expand
  82. lievcr
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    Excelente serie, cada personaje tiene su propia historia.

    Es sumanente interesante como todas sus historias se separan del hilo principal y luego se vuelven a correlacionar, ha sido una grata sorpresa, y realmente tiene muchas caracteristicas que solo algunas pocas personas lograran apreciaciar.

    Los años 80s han sido casi pectamente retratados en esta obra. Una de mis series favoritas.
  83. NJMC_
    May 11, 2017
    5
    Predictable and at some times, slow and boring. I really feel like I am in a television show, the way people are so into a show that is sub-par. Nothing original, high use of cliche' situations with the various characters involved.
  84. 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
  85. dispencer187
    Aug 1, 2016
    9
    This is what the people want Netflix. If you can continue to replicate shows like this then people will cancel their ridiculously expensive cable subscriptions. Everything is top notch in this 8 episode bingeworthy series. The only reason I gave it a 9 instead of a 10 is for the predictability of the last 2 episodes and the acting is great but not 10/10.
  86. 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
  87. alex2016
    Aug 7, 2016
    10
    Just finished watching this series today and thought it was great! so I recommend anyone watch this who is looking for something to watch and hopefully there will be a season season two.
  88. 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.
  89. 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
  90. NihadBOSna
    Aug 19, 2016
    10
    Perfect show.Loved the 80s vibe,soundtrack,mood everything mixed up perfectly.Kids were amazing just like rest of crew.Loved suspense in monster scenes.Waiting for season two
  91. Dodringo64
    Aug 5, 2016
    9
    Stranger Things was created by The Duffer Brothers and tells the story of a boy named Will Byers who disappears and his mother, the police chief and a group of friends who are investigating trying to find out what happened while some strange, other-worldly forces might be involved in some way. I'm gonna try to avoid spoilers in this review in case anyone hasn't seen it.

    So, first off,    Stranger Things was created by The Duffer Brothers and tells the story of a boy named Will Byers who disappears and his mother, the police chief and a group of friends who are investigating trying to find out what happened while some strange, other-worldly forces might be involved in some way. I'm gonna try to avoid spoilers in this review in case anyone hasn't seen it.

    So, first off, the quality. If you are well-versed in the cinema of the 1980's or literature of the 1980's then it's very clear to you that this show was inspired by Stephen King's early novels and Stephen Spielberg's early films. And if you're a fan of these things, which I am, then this will obviously be a plus for you. I am instantly hooked on this show just by the way it looks. It's obvious that the duffer brothers are fans of this source material because everything from the opening logo, which looks just like Stephen Kin's font for his earliest books to mini-plot elements sharing themes to Spielberg's movies as well as Stephen King's books.

    The main hook of this show is the disappearance of this boy and his mother trying to search for him, played by Winona Ryder, very well I might add. A police chief, played by David Harbour, whose downward character progression really hooked me into this show. I thought David Harbour was great in this and his character was amazing. Also great characters were the three kids searching for their missing friend. These kids were gold, they were funny, likeable and actually acted like kids! Also the older brother of Will, played by Charlie Heaton was excellent because he was kind of the reserved character, the loner. Also, Winona Ryder's character, who starts to go insane, at least to most people.

    Is it perfect, almost, but it has faults and as much as I want to give it a 10, I can't. Also, there are some striking resemblances to E.T.    … Expand
  92. CateTr
    Feb 10, 2018
    2
    This is a very good show because it has Horrid Henry story in it and basically that means its a rip off of horrid henry 2/10 the 2 is for horrid henry
  93. abm0
    Jan 3, 2017
    7
    Pretty good, but also pretty cheesy throughout. They managed to make it interesting enough to want to follow to the end, but it has its share of eye-rolling moments. Even the little humoristic moments at times feel out-of-place. A lot about its paranormal premises is just beyond anything remotely credible and it's just dropped in your lap in a "take it or leave it" kind of way, which makesPretty good, but also pretty cheesy throughout. They managed to make it interesting enough to want to follow to the end, but it has its share of eye-rolling moments. Even the little humoristic moments at times feel out-of-place. A lot about its paranormal premises is just beyond anything remotely credible and it's just dropped in your lap in a "take it or leave it" kind of way, which makes it feel like the show wasn't really trying to get itself taken seriously (unlike the much better The OA).… Expand
  94. 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
  95. MasterRiley
    Sep 7, 2016
    10
    Stranger Things is in my opinion a masterpiece of a show. It delivered on everything I wanted it to and more. The writing and direction is on point, the performances (especially from the child actors/actresses) is fantastic, the pacing and build up of suspense works beautifully, the music is great, and the overall setting/theme of the show (classic 80s, pop culture references) makes for aStranger Things is in my opinion a masterpiece of a show. It delivered on everything I wanted it to and more. The writing and direction is on point, the performances (especially from the child actors/actresses) is fantastic, the pacing and build up of suspense works beautifully, the music is great, and the overall setting/theme of the show (classic 80s, pop culture references) makes for a very entertaining and binge worthy show. All of the characters are great and interesting to watch as they develop across the season; the ones that specifically blew me away were Eleven and Mike. Mike is the main protagonist and gives an amazing performance throughout but Eleven captures something masterful. Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) gives off so much emotion just through her facial expression and movement alone. She really gave a one of a kind performance and quickly becomes the star of the entire show. If you can't tell already, I absolutely love this show! For anyone who has not seen it yet, do yourself a favour and watch it.… Expand
  96. Regach
    Aug 12, 2016
    10
    Definitely one of the best tv series this year. The characters are amazing, and interesting.. I liked every single episode, because it was full of great music and stunning acting from the children. Stranger things is a scary and intens show with a lot of surprises.. And im really looking forward to season 2..
  97. ashclayton90
    Aug 2, 2016
    9
    After been recommended to me by a friend and at first wasn't too sure. I took the plunge watching the first episode not too sure what to expect. After the opening scene and following opening titles I was hooked. 'Stranger Things' is a great throwback to classic 80's movies and was an absolute treat.

    Mysterious, Intriguing, Thrilling and Charming, I simply cannot wait for season 2!    After been recommended to me by a friend and at first wasn't too sure. I took the plunge watching the first episode not too sure what to expect. After the opening scene and following opening titles I was hooked. 'Stranger Things' is a great throwback to classic 80's movies and was an absolute treat.

    Mysterious, Intriguing, Thrilling and Charming,

    I simply cannot wait for season 2!

    An absolute must watch for anyone who loves good quality TV.    … Expand
  98. charlie888
    Aug 2, 2016
    7
    It was off to a good start but around the 5th episode the writers resorted to lame excuses for what were meant to be inevitable situations. No kid would challenge a little girl with superpowers even if a bromance was being threatened. When people find out the effing truth that could save everybody from certain death and destruction...YOU DON'T ATTEND A FAKE FUNERAL. And a whole bunch ofIt was off to a good start but around the 5th episode the writers resorted to lame excuses for what were meant to be inevitable situations. No kid would challenge a little girl with superpowers even if a bromance was being threatened. When people find out the effing truth that could save everybody from certain death and destruction...YOU DON'T ATTEND A FAKE FUNERAL. And a whole bunch of lameness which, frankly, surprises me that few seem to mind. 9.1 rating??? C'mon. I'm not saying it was a total disaster, but it can't be THAT good! The actors save the day. Kudos to them for not letting crappy scripts ruin their performance.… Expand
  99. TheFreeman148
    Jan 10, 2017
    10
    To put it simply, this is excellent television. The characters are all well acted and stand out on their own, the music is absolutely amazing and adds to each scene, the mystery unfolds in a compelling way and has us guessing till the very end. I would recommend this to just about anyone. Sit back and enjoy!
  100. adelucero
    Aug 5, 2016
    10
    One word: Awesome. Great casting, writing, directing, and acting. Winona gave a stellar performance for her character. The kids of the show is great, probably one of the greatest performance gave by younger actors and actresses. Telling yourself, "just one more episode" will be lie and you will realize that you are already at the finale. Thrilling and exciting.
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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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