“Stranger Things” is Netflix original that consists of only eight episodes, but it captivates you from the start. A friend told me they had watched it and that it was amazing, and I didn’t think much about it, until I heard that more people were recommending it as well. Netflix kept pushing it in my face, as it usually does with its original shows, specifically to get people to want to watch. But this show was different somehow. I’m a huge fan of “Ghost Adventures”, and so I half expected it to be somewhat paranormal or something along that genre. The show turned out to be more complex and compelling than I ever imagined.

Set in the 1980’s in Hawkins, Indiana, the show is a combination between sci-fi, mystery, horror, supernatural, and a little bit of romance thrown in. The show contains many references to 1980’s movies, including, The Shining, Jaws, E.T., and A Nightmare on Elm Street.

I’ll try to avoid big spoilers about the plot, although I will give you insight to the characters and some of their personality traits.

1. The disappearance of Will Byers.

Aren’t you curious about what happened to him? How he went missing? Will his family ever see him again? The answers can be found, but not immediately.

2. Police Chief Hopper.

And his views about mornings.

(imgur.com)

3. Steve.

He’s the typical douchebag guy, until you see the other side of him, and realize he’s just a wuss, and doesn’t want to get hurt or get in trouble. In more ways than one.

4. Barb.

All she wanted was for Nancy to continue their friendship. I relate to Barb in many ways. I’m awkward around people I don’t know, I hate when girls cut off their friends when they start dating a guy, and my friends tend to be more outgoing than I am. She didn’t like being left out or left behind. No one does.

(telegraph.co.uk)

5. Mike, Dustin, and Lucas’ friendship.

It’s precious. Makes a person long for one’s childhood back.

(thisisinsider.com)

6. The trio’s love of science, and their use of walkie talkies to communicate with each other.

7. The Department of Energy and the mysteries surrounding it.

8. Nancy.

Her character is so brave, even if she doesn’t seem like it. She’s kind to everyone, which makes her character that much more likable.

(dorkshelf.com)

9. Jonathan Byers.

Maybe I’m biased because he’s a photographer and I love photography, but he’s a cool guy although he’s kinda awkward. He’s also wise, despite the fact that he doesn’t talk to a lot of people, and doesn’t really have friends. He gives great advice to his brother.

(tumblr.com)

10. The amount of sass that Lucas gives to Dustin and Mike.

I can’t decide if he’s annoying, mean, or just genuinely thinking practically about life. Nah, I’m 99% sure that he’s a jerk.

11. ELEVEN.

One reason you’ll also be intrigued, and want to keep binge-watching even if it’s two a.m.

12. Flashbacks.

Small insights into the past of each character’s life that connect to the current events.

13. The interior decor of the houses.

It reminds me of my grandparents’ house. The nostalgia is comforting, which is one of the only things that bring comfort in the whole series.

14. Emotional connections.

The sadness that you’ll feel for Joyce when everyone thinks that she’s crazy. When you’re son’s missing, things change, emotions are hard to control. Soon some of the characters realize that she isn’t crazy, and something weird is definitely going on.

(ew.com)

15. The Upside Down.

You’ll find out about it soon enough, assuming you start watching. I don’t want to spoil it for you.

I just hope it doesn’t get cancelled. I need a second season! Rumor has it that a second season is in the works!