As a long-time fan of both Stranger Things and Stephen King’s works, I find these connections truly fascinating! The similarities between Jack Sawyer’s journey and the storyline of Stranger Things certainly pique my curiosity. If only we could fast forward to season 5 to uncover the mysteries that lie ahead!
As a movie enthusiast, I must say that delving into “Stranger Things” on Netflix feels like stepping back into the captivating world of the ’80s. This fantastical series is a treasure trove of nostalgia, meticulously crafted to resonate with fans who cherish the essence of that decade. From its visual and auditory elements to the countless references to movies, books, and music, “Stranger Things” serves as a time capsule, transporting viewers back to an era they might long for.
Of course, the series draws upon genuine cultural touchstones. Shows like “Ghostbusters”, games such as Dungeons & Dragons, and bands like Metallica are some examples of real-world cultural icons that are incorporated into the series. Additionally, the world of Stephen King is another significant theme that’s delved into deeply within the show. The Duffer brothers, who oversee the show, are evidently fans, as the following list demonstrates. Here are some Stephen King references you might have overlooked while watching “Stranger Things”.
7 The Font in the Title Is the Same One Used in Some of Stephen King’s Published Works
When “Stranger Things” debuted on July 15, 2016, many viewers recognized a familiar connection. Indeed, the opening credits mimicked an ’80s genre film with its glitches to set the atmosphere. However, it was the distinctive font used in the title that sparked excitement among Stephen King enthusiasts, prompting some to reach for their well-worn first editions.
The font used is ITC Benguiat, which was also used in the titles of some Stephen King’s first editions, but it was also commonly used in paperbacks by other authors during the 1980s and 1990s. To notice the similarity, look for a first edition hardcover of the book “Needful Things,” published in 1993. It has always been quite apparent.
6 Eleven Is a Mashup of Characters Like Carrie and Charlie From Firestarter
In the world of Stranger Things, telekinesis plays a significant role, and it’s not just limited to that series. It’s also a supernatural aspect found in books (and movies) like Carrie. Just like Eleven, the character from Stranger Things who struggles with controlling her powers, so does Charlie, the protagonist from Firestarter – a story about a young girl who can manipulate fire. When these characters finally learn to master their abilities, they are often perceived as villains rather than heroes.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the research facility where Eleven underwent tests seems to share striking resemblances with the organization depicted in the novel “The Institute,” though this could be a coincidence since the book was published after the series premiered.
5 The Nod to Stand By Me/The Body in Season 1 of Stranger Things
In the first season of “Stranger Things,” a collection of episodes pay tribute to Stephen King’s novella, which was known as “The Body” but became “Stand by Me” for its film adaptation. The title of the fourth episode in Season 1 mirrors that of King’s original story.
Prior to the title episode, the preceding installment depicts the group searching frantically for a character named Will who has gone missing. They’re unsure if he’s still alive. In a heartbreaking twist, they discover a deceased body (similar to the scenario in Stand by Me). Episode 5 serves as a fitting conclusion to this tribute, as the quartet splits into two pairs and walks along train tracks, engaging in candid discussions reminiscent of the memorable scene in Rob Reiner’s timeless coming-of-age film.
4 The Gang From Stranger Things Feels Ever So Similar to the Losers Club
Stephen King frequently explores a topic that he excels at – the journey of growing up. His skill at character development is notable, but his portrayal of childhood stands out particularly well. This is most clearly demonstrated in tales such as ‘It’, ‘The Long Walk’, and ‘The Body’.
The role of growing up is significantly prominent in “Stranger Things”. Among various storylines, the one that stands out most captivatingly is the portrayal of a band of misfits. The tales of Dustin, Mike, Lucas, Eleven, and their group bear striking resemblance to the members of the Losers Club from “It”, both in the books and on screen adaptations. Although their struggles may not be identical, they are dealt with in a similar manner – a blend of youthful innocence and maturity acquired through these experiences. As a result, the depiction of growing up in both series shares many commonalities.
3 Lucas Reads The Talisman to a Comatose Max
In Stranger Things, items are strategically placed to emphasize the ’80s setting. Shopping malls, attire, and tunes are among the elements skillfully used to convey this era authentically, leaving viewers in awe as they spot familiar objects on screen.
Season 4 of “Stranger Things” concludes with Max, unconscious in a hospital bed, as the group sadly ponders if she’ll ever regain consciousness. Lucas, who shares an emotional bond with Max, reads her a novel – Stephen King and Peter Straub’s “The Talisman”. Although it seems like a casual tribute to King, the choice of this book isn’t accidental. The narrative revolves around Jack Sawyer, a boy on a journey through another world to retrieve an artifact that can save his ailing mother. Could this hint at anything? We’ll find out when season 5 starts.
2 Bob’s Reference to a Creepy Clown
It’s clear that the story of Stranger Things unfolds within a universe akin to a multiverse. Although the specific one remains undecided, Stephen King’s multiverse is a strong possibility. While King’s works are set in Hawkins and he’s a well-known author here, his novels have ventured into the fictional realm through his series, The Dark Tower, suggesting it’s not impossible for him to appear in this universe as well!
If you’re intrigued by the idea of King’s world intertwining with the show, check out this fascinating link: Bob Newby, portrayed by Sean Astin in Season 2, shares an account of being tormented by a clown as a child. He refers to it as “Mr. Baldo” in his story, and while it’s a long shot to equate Baldo with Pennywise from the “It” series, the terrifying force from that franchise certainly has the power to make an appearance in this show.
1 The Violence by the Bullies Resembles That of the Bullies in It and Stand by Me
In case you haven’t noticed, the storyline of “Stranger Things” follows the characters as they mature significantly, transforming from young children into adults on screen. Alongside this transformation, the series delves into issues common during adolescence, such as the challenges they face. Given their status as underdogs and outcasts, bullying plays a significant role in their lives.
In Season 4, the group frequently encounters the harshness of bullies, both within and outside high school, with Eddie Munson specifically being singled out by hostile teenagers. More notably, Stephen King’s works often portray bullying in schools as a significant challenge for young students, which is particularly evident in “It” and “Stand by Me,” two films that share similarities with the popular Netflix series “Stranger Things.” The bullies in “Stranger Things” bear some resemblance to the antagonists in Stephen King’s novels, driven by complex motivations reminiscent of his other villains.
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2024-11-04 02:31