The cultural phenomenon that is Stranger Things has captivated audiences since its debut, intertwining nostalgia with supernatural thrills. What many viewers may not realize is that the Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross, have infused the series with the unmistakable essence of Steven Spielberg's storytelling. From the heartwarming relationships among its child protagonists to its uncanny parallels with Spielberg’s classics, the show seems to nod and tip its hat to the legendary director's influence.
At its core, Stranger Things thrives on the central theme of ordinary characters navigating extraordinary situations. This mirrors Spielberg's trademark narrative style, where the mundane intersects seamlessly with the fantastical. The bond between Mike and Eleven evokes a similar dynamic as that of Elliott and E.T., underscoring humanity’s capacity for empathy even in the face of the bizarre. As Matt Duffer succinctly put it, “Could we do what Spielberg did in the 80s and elevate it like he did?” This question encapsulates the Duffer Brothers' aspiration to blend heartfelt storytelling with genre-defining elements.
The show’s aesthetic choices—such as sweeping camera movements and iconic bike chase scenes—similarly evoke a sense of childlike wonder. These choices foster a thrilling atmosphere, drawing viewers into the fantastical world of Hawkins, Indiana, much like the enthralling spaces of Spielberg’s narratives.
Another crucial element that places Stranger Things in the realm of Spielbergian influence is its deft handling of nostalgia. The Duffer Brothers, raised in the ‘80s, drew deeply from their childhood experience, bereft of modern distractions, immersed in movies and storytelling. The series borrows nostalgic visuals and themes—from BMX bikes and board games to the very font reminiscent of Stephen King novel covers. The Duffer Brothers have commented extensively on this creative approach, with Ross explaining, “We took an old Stephen King book cover… and a lot of images from the movies that inspired us.” It's a thoughtful homage; viewers can spot references that span from The Goonies to Stand By Me, creating a layered viewing experience in which audiences feel connected not just to the characters, but to the history of cinema itself. “We were just harking back to the classics,” Ross reflects, indicating an awareness of their place in the larger tapestry of storytelling.
The transition from film to television has enabled the Duffer Brothers to pursue a richer narrative canvas, leveraging the longform nature of the series to explore intricate themes and complex characters. As Ross notes, with the rise of Game of Thrones and similar series, the landscape of "genre TV" has evolved, shedding the notion that horror or fantasy is inherently cheesy. This aligns with their goal of "elevating" ideas prevalent in Spielberg's films—taking what could easily be dismissed as escapism and transforming it into something profound. “Could we take... these kind of B-movie ideas and elevate it?” Ross posed while discussing their vision. They aim to strike a balance between scares, heartfelt moments, and character-driven stories that resonate beyond jump scares. By focusing on the emotional arcs of its characters, Stranger Things becomes less about horror and more about human connections—echoing the timeless narratives Spielberg has mastered.
In the end, Stranger Things stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, one that resonates with both younger audiences and nostalgic viewers alike. Whether it's through the lens of its charming protagonists, nostalgic nods, or the careful crafting of elevated narratives, the Duffer Brothers have triumphantly brought a slice of Spielberg's cinematic magic to the small screen, making the series both a tribute and an evolution of the tropes that have defined beloved 1980s filmmaking. This strategic homage is not just what makes Stranger Things feel like a Spielberg movie—it’s the reason the show has become a hallmark of contemporary television storytelling.
