I likely would not have enjoyed this series as much if not for the Duffer Brothers' choice to set it in the early 80s. It had every bit of the feel of an early Stephen King, produced by Steven Spielberg, directed by Joe Dante. There are some who feel that the subplot with the boys is reminiscent of The Goonies. I completely disagree. It felt like The Explorers (1985).

The acting was solid. Ryder and Harbour carried the day, but Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, and Caleb McLaughlin really did an incredible job. Young people should not be this talented! I can't wait to see them elsewhere.

There were very few errors in setting (one minor error in the sound track). Even little details like the wicker back on the chairs pulled me back.

The eerie feel of being in the woods and the electrical problems around town really contributed to a dark feeling. I didn't feel like this was horror, more like it was suspense.

The one flaw in the show was the monster. Show-not-tell should have prevailed until the very last episode. Then a bit more imagination would have been warranted.

I can't wait for a season 2, though I'd be more than happy with them leaving this plot and going elsewhere.