Stranger Things is a popular science fiction horror series that has captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. The show is set in the 1980s and follows the lives of a group of friends as they uncover supernatural mysteries in their small town. While the show’s storyline is captivating, the behind-the-scenes details are equally fascinating. In this article, we will explore some of the lesser-known facts about the making of Stranger Things.
1. The Duffer Brothers’ Inspiration
The Duffer Brothers, who created and produced Stranger Things, were inspired by a variety of sources. They drew inspiration from classic films such as E.T., The Goonies, and Stand By Me, as well as Stephen King’s novels. The brothers also incorporated their own childhood experiences into the show, making it a personal project.
2. The Casting Process
The casting process for Stranger Things was extensive and thorough. The Duffer Brothers wanted to find actors who could bring their characters to life convincingly. They held auditions in various cities across the United States and saw thousands of actors before settling on the final cast. Interestingly, some of the actors, such as Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven) and Finn Wolfhard (Mike), were relatively unknown before being cast in the show.
3. The Set Design
The set design for Stranger Things is meticulous and detailed. The production team went to great lengths to recreate the 1980s setting accurately. They used vintage props, clothing, and technology to create an authentic atmosphere. The team also built several sets from scratch, including the Byers’ home and the Hawkins National Laboratory.
4. The Music
The music in Stranger Things is an essential aspect of the show’s success. The Duffer Brothers worked closely with composer Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein of the band Survive to create an original score that captures the essence of the 1980s. The score features synthesizers and electronic instruments that were popular in that era.
5. The Special Effects
The special effects in Stranger Things are impressive, considering the show’s relatively low budget. The production team used practical effects, such as prosthetics and animatronics, to create the supernatural creatures that appear throughout the series. They also used computer-generated imagery (CGI) sparingly to enhance certain scenes.
6. The Upside Down
The Upside Down is a parallel universe that plays a significant role in Stranger Things. The production team created a physical set for the Upside Down, which was built upside down to give it a disorienting effect. The set was designed to look like a decaying version of Hawkins, Indiana, with twisted trees and vines covering everything.
7. The References
Stranger Things is full of references to 1980s pop culture. From movie posters on the walls to character names inspired by famous actors, the show pays homage to its influences. Some of the most notable references include nods to The Terminator, Alien, and Dungeons & Dragons.
8. The Challenges
Despite its success, Stranger Things faced several challenges during its production. One of the most significant challenges was finding the right balance between horror and nostalgia. The Duffer Brothers wanted to create a show that was scary but also had heart and humor. They also had to navigate the challenges of working with child actors and keeping them safe during intense scenes.
9. The Future
Stranger Things has been renewed for a fourth season, which is currently in production. While details about the upcoming season are scarce, fans can expect more supernatural mysteries and 1980s nostalgia. The Duffer Brothers have hinted that the fourth season may be the last, but nothing has been confirmed.
In conclusion, Stranger Things is a show that has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with its captivating storyline and attention to detail. The behind-the-scenes details are equally fascinating, from the meticulous set design to the impressive special effects. With a fourth season on the horizon, fans can look forward to more supernatural mysteries and 1980s nostalgia in the future.