By DOMINGA GLEASON
Advertising Manager
Chances are at this point if you haven’t watched “Stranger Things” yet, you’ve at least heard about it. But what is all the fuss? We know from “Orange is the New Black” that Netflix is more than capable of producing an excellent show. But we also know that fads can turn people onto a show that’s actually no good. So let’s break it down and find out if “Stranger Things” is worth the fuss or a bust.
This ‘80s style TV horror-drama has a bit of it all: thrills, mystery, romance and a token comedic character. You will surely get a “Goonies” feel from this show, and its sci-fi themes will give you “Close Encounters” vibe.
It is safe to say that “Stranger Things” will leave you on the edge of your seat. And while it is not one of the scariest shows out there, you may not want to watch it alone – certainly not at night.
The basic premise of the show is a young boy, William Byers, goes missing after a night of playing Dungeons & Dragons. You soon find out that the game has become a foreshadowing for the show as well as a metaphor.
The story follows three separate plots, which merge at the end, on the hunt for Will.
The first party is a group of Will’s three guy friends who stumble upon a strange girl with mysterious powers.
The second is the once-big city cop but now small-town sheriff along with the hysterical Joyce Byers, Will’s mom.
Finally, there is the teenage beauty, Nancy Wheeler, whose best friend soon goes missing causing her to team up with the local outcast, Will’s brother.
The acting in this show is without a doubt why this show is as popular as it is. Fans have bowed down to the return of the iconic ‘90s star, Winona Ryder. Seeing Ryder back in a main role after many years of absence is exciting and refreshing.
Her commitment to Joyce’s character is amazingly accurate; you will soon find her your favorite character.
But the most impressive acting comes from the 12 year old Millie Bobby Brown, who plays the character Eleven. With very little dialog, Brown manages to play a very emotional and intense character.
Don’t worry, the rest of the actors do not fall short from the bars set by Brown and Ryder.
Each hour-long episode of this eight-chapter series is fully immersive and packed with original content.
It does not take long to get hooked on this show and wonder what is going to happen next. What is most satisfying is that by the end of the show, all of your questions will be answered; some of them just may take longer than others.
Its sci-fi themes are just enough to be fantasy, but with a solid set of real life connections, it is not hard to believe this could actually happen.
The Duffer Brothers have definitely created an interesting and exciting show and it’s no surprised they got signed for a second season. If you haven’t watched it yet, I suggest you dedicate a few nights to binge watching this show. I declare “Stranger Things” worth the fuss.
