Stranger Things is a sci-fi horror series on Netflix created by the Duffer Brothers (Wayward Pines). I had been hearing nothing but praise for this eight part series from friends and family, and now I know why. It is a clever tribute to movies and TV series of the 80s.

In the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, in the year 1983, 12-year-old Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) mysteriously disappears one night. Will's mother Joyce (Winona Ryder), police chief Jim Hopper (David Harbour), and his three friends Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) set out to search for where he could have gone. To make matters more complicated, a strange girl with psychokinetic powers is discovered by Will's friends the following day. Could she hold the key to where Will may have vanished?

The series plays out as an affectionate homage to all the stereotypes and tropes of 1980s films such as E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Stand By Me and The Lost Boys. The theme song itself sounds like something composed by Director John Carpenter. I really enjoyed the sense of mystery and suspenseful atmosphere that was emanating throughout each episode. I must give credit to the Duffer Brothers for the way they were able to capture the overall feel of an 80s movie. The acting was great as well, especially from all of the child actors and Winona Ryder. I just hope the series will be picked up for a second season.

I rate the first season 8.5/10.