Netflix's Stranger Things Review, Trailer and Cast

Jul 16, 2016 06:14 AM EDT

Stranger Things is Netflix's newest show that premiered on June 15. Set in 1983, this sci-fi flick features a group of kids looking for their friend Will who vanishes into thin air. The show has a mix of supernatural elements and thrilling storyline.

A report from Vanity Fair says the show pays homage to the supernatural classics of the 80's. The group of kids on their bikes are straight out of Steven Spielberg movie -- especially when they find a mysterious girl with strange powers.

The eight-episode original series also features Winona Ryder who plays as the mother of Will, the kid that went missing under mysterious circumstances. After watching the show for just a few minutes, it's immediately clear Stranger Things is a unique combination of "E.T.", "X-Files", "Jaws" and "Indiana Jones".

According to Variety, creators of Stranger Things, Matt and Ross Duffer, use sturdy genre conventions to tell a unique story of entirely relatable characters. The series highlights the fears of parents and children who are growing apart, and it also shows the value of friendship.

Aside from mystical elements, Stranger Things depicts an unexpected friendship that springs up between kids and an unusual visitor whose presence hints there are wondrous mysteries that will be unfolded.

As the group of kids searches Will, they found Eleven, a mysterious little girl who's escaped from the military facility that has strange abilities.

Critics praised the casting of the series. The show has perfect combination of newbies, which are all talented actors who are believable in their respective roles.  Finn Wolfhard, who plays Mike, is a sensitive, sympathetic lead. Moreover, he is supported by Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas) and Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin). 

Overall, Stranger Things is primarily interested in showing believably flawed characters who wrestle with the idea that some things are unknowable in this world. With bits of mystery and sci-fi elements, the show does not forget to bring entertainment to its viewers.

Furthermore, The show is scary and cozy, heartening and grim. The scenes are stylishly scored with an eerie churn of 1980s synth swells. Stranger Things is delightful to watch with a compelling storyline that would leave its viewers to want more.

At Season 1's final episode, it is clear the show will have a sustained energy going to its next chapter. The first eight episodes are satisfying, inventive and compulsively watchable.

Watch the trailer of Stranger Things below.