The Netflix original drama series "Stranger Things" is a throwback sci-fi, in the vein of "The Goonies" and "E.T." It is this summer's TV sensation. And with good reason: it's sensational.
Set in a sleepy (Or is it?) Indiana town in 1983, "Stranger Things" commences with the disappearance of a 12-year-old boy, which launches an enthralling and unusual investigation into his disappearance. There's an MK Ultra conspiracy. A faceless monster. And a peculiar girl.
If you are still unconvinced, here are six reasons why you should be binge watching "Stranger Things" right now.
1. Winona Ryder.
The queen of the '90s indie screen has returned. And she is brilliant. Her performance as grieving mother Joyce Byers is moving, intriguing and just the right amount of crazy, a la Shelley Duvall in The Shinning. If Duvall had been wielding the axe, that is.
2. The characters.
Arguably the best thing about "Stranger Things" is it's perfectly imperfect ensemble of characters. The rapport between the three main kiddos, Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard), Lucas Sinclair (Caleb McLaughlin) and Dustin Henderson (Gaten Matarazzo) is absolutely charming. You want to protect them. All of them. Particularly the telepathic Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) who is serving us some buzzed-hair realness.
3. The music.
The music in the series is consistent with the era, which means a lot of Toto, Foreigner, The Bangles, New Order, Joy Division and more repetitively, the Clash's "Should I Stay Or Should I Go." Even the title sequence has an almost '80s horror flick feel, all John Carpenter with heavy, dark synths. Creepy and cool.
4. The wardrobe.
The attention to detail in Stranger Things is impeccable, but the authentic '80s wardrobe shines. Dirty trainers. Slogan tees. Mom jeans. Chunky cardigans. Each character is adorned in attire appropriate to the era. Especially Barb. Barb is the best.
5. The monster.
"Stranger Things" takes cues from the monster handbook: the scariest monster is that which is unseen. And for the most part, the monster is just a thing in the shadows. And even when given a glimpse of the horrid thing, well...it's still pretty damn scary.
6. The thrilling storyline.
Despite being a love letter to '80s sci-fi, "Stranger Things" delivers something that is original and totally fun. The writing is excellent and there is seldom a dull moment. What's not to love?
