Fall Back to the 80s with Stranger Things

Britt Alphson ‘17, Staff Writer

Stranger Things, in short, is the most refreshing TV show to hit the small screen in decades. It borders on a beautiful blend of Super 8, The Goonies, and ET with a sense of modern relevance that makes it entirely it’s own. Set in the 80’s, Stranger Things brings back the memories of an American generation who marked its fight against Communists, newfound political conservatism, and discovery of more advanced technology. The show follows several people living in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana after a young boy named Will Byers is taken by a mysterious force, leaving his loved ones reeling. The three best friends that Byers left behind, “nerds” who spend their time playing Dungeons and Dragons, meet a girl with supernatural powers who helps them on their quest to save Will. Jonathan, Will’s misunderstood older brother and caretaker of the family, makes an unlikely alliance with studious neighborhood girl Nancy in his struggle to cope with his brother’s disappearance. And then there is Joyce Byers. Single mother to Will and Jonathan, overworked cashier at a grocery store, and complete risk-taker. Joyce’s determination to bring her son home, along with the help of troubled sheriff Hopper, will move you deeply.

Stranger Things is a perfect fall show to binge watch. Set in a picturesque small town during autumn, it is viewed best when snuggled on the couch with a cup of tea in hand and a fire flaming nearby. The stereotypical high school Jonathan and Nancy attend in the show, complete with fall football games and midweek parties, will undoubtedly get you excited for the adorable Homecoming festivities planned for this October at Marymount! But seriously, if you haven’t already sobbed your eyes out over this show, it is about time you do. We are all experiencing something very singular with this show; we are not only witnessing the birth of a classic, but a classic with a cult following that will probably outlive us all. What makes Stranger Things so iconic is its poignant exploration of relationships at all stages in a person’s life. The themes of love, friendship, and heartbreak are present among the 12-year-olds, 17-year-olds, and characters in their mid-50’s: the show speaks to all ages. With so many sci-fi shows resorting to complicated plots and overdone CGI, Stranger Things is refreshing in the tipping of its hat to the good old sci-fi of the 1980’s we all know and love.