As we edge closer to the premiere of Stranger Things 5 this November, die-hard fans and casual viewers alike are once again diving deep into the rich tapestry of nostalgia that the series has woven together over its five-season run. Among its myriad influences, one classic film stands out: Steven Spielberg's iconic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. With its themes of friendship, childhood adventure, and the impactful battle against a faceless government, Stranger Things is undeniably a homage to this beloved classic. But just how much of E.T. are we seeing beneath the surface?
Childhood Adventures in Suburbia and Beyond
Take a moment to think back to Elliott and his group of friends as they journeyed through the streets on their bikes. That quintessential image of kids gliding through neighborhoods is mirrored in Stranger Things, where our heroes often zip through Hawkins with walkie-talkies and flashlights, echoing the same sense of freedom, discovery, and rebellion. The spirit of these young adventurers becomes especially palpable when the kids of Hawkins find themselves racing against time and government authorities to protect Eleven, a powerful stranger in their midst. Their adventures are not merely childhood pastimes; they are replete with peril and echo a quest for freedom, much like Elliott’s mission to protect E.T. Stranger Things employs a potent combination of thrilling chase sequences and innocent exploration, encapsulating that unique blend of wonder and danger that made E.T. a classic.
As A.V. Club notes, “the kids often keep secrets from their parents, hiding a life form with powers that is unfamiliar to them,” allowing audiences to relish in the trials faced by children on the margins of adulthood.
“The kids often keep secrets from their parents, hiding a life form with powers that is unfamiliar to them” - The A.V. Club
The Quirky Yet Relatable Life Form
Perhaps the most striking homage occurs in the depiction of Eleven and her extraordinary abilities. Much like E.T., she has other-wordly abilities and is new to her surroundings, often finding solace and wonder in everyday situations and items like Eggos. From her curious investigations of the Byers’ home to moment we see her wearing a blonde wig in an attempt to blend in, Eleven captures the essence of that awe-inspiring friendship shared by Elliott and E.T.
Stranger Things explores themes of vulnerability and the awkwardness of youth through its rich characterizations. Kids in both stories often exhibit gestures and speech that resonate far beyond their years, talking “more like adults than children,” as they tackle issues of love, acceptance, and bravery. This maturation process is amplified by the sibling dynamics and parental relationships on-screen. The series introduces a divorced mother figure - Joyce - who juggles her responsibilities while striving to understand her children’s struggles - mirroring that motif present throughout E.T..
Beyond shared themes, the visual storytelling in Stranger Things often nods back to E.T. with clear parallels. The series employs an extensive use of flashlights, casting eerie beams of light into the darkness as tension mounts. These moments serve not just as a plot device, but as a visual trademark that harkens back to the classic’s signature style. The particular shots and framing often reflect the same whimsical yet ominous vibe found in Spielberg's classic, reminiscent of childhood fears faced in dimly lit rooms and expansive backyards.
This nostalgic imagery is complemented by the inclusion of strange government figures in hazmat suits and the looming Dr. Brenner (Matthew Modine), a direct callback to the oppressive mood established in E.T.. Such elements not only heighten the stakes for our young protagonists but also reinforce the notion of growing up in a world filled with uncontrollable challenges - the essence of each childhood adventure portrayed.
Stranger Things is a veritable love letter to E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Steven Spielberg in general with the creators, the Duffer Brothers citing him as a clear influence. With its references elegantly woven into the narrative, it captures the innocence and bravery of childhood while exploring the complexities surrounding the friendship between kids and an extraordinary "life form".
