The Popularity of Stranger Things

Netflix’s Stranger Things has been named one of the “Greatest TV shows of the 21st Century” by IMDb, a popular and trusted source for entertainment content. Ironically enough, this show was initially rejected about fifteen times by Netflix executives but has now become the most popular show on Netflix ever. This show follows a group of friends who encounter supernatural elements and make discoveries after their friend, Will, goes missing. It contains many plot twists and unfolded mysteries throughout the seasons. New characters are introduced each season, including Eleven with psychokinetic powers. She becomes the main character and helps her friends defeat evil supernatural creatures.

You may be wondering: What makes this show so popular?  

One element of the show that makes it so popular is its setting. This show takes place during the 80’s, a very nostalgic time for adults. However, it also appeals to teenagers and kids because it is an era they have never experienced before, making things like fashion, slang, and music an interesting part of the show. In fact, the song “Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush, a pivotal song in season four of Stranger Things, regained popularity and obtained millions of streams on Spotify and TikTok.

Additionally, the main characters are a huge part of what makes the show. Each kid in the friend group: Eleven, Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Will, and Max have different backstories and personalities, but they all come together to defeat the supernatural forces they are up against. The dynamics in the show are unique as the kids, their older siblings, friends, and parents are all involved in the journey. There are very heartfelt moments of friendship within the show including sacrifices, which has led to death for some characters. Additionally, the CGI in the show is incredible. With special sound effects, powers, and monsters it makes you forget it is not real. The mix of genres within the show also makes it popular. It includes comedy, coming of age, horror, and sci-fi elements all in one show, assuring there is always something viewers can look forward to watching.  

Lastly, the popularity of the show also has to do with the strategic releases of each season. The first season aired in 2016, the second in 2017, the third in 2019, the fourth in 2022, and the fifth and final season is released in parts: on Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, consecutively. Each season also ends in a cliffhanger, making the audience eager to see what happens next. On TikTok, Stranger Things has also received attention because fans are posting their theories of what is going to happen next, making the show even more talked about. Moreover, the finale of Stranger Things, which was released on New Years Eve, was available to watch in theaters. This has never happened in Netflix’s existence. 

Overall, viewers love the show for its blend of nostalgia, suspense, and friendship. Stranger Things will go down as one of Netflix’s most popular shows of all time and one of the most loved shows of the century. It will remain as a show that connected generations through its suspenseful and exciting storytelling,