What Influences Shaped the Series
Stranger Things: Tales from '85 aims to capture the essence of childhood adventure and nostalgia that defined the original series. Showrunner Eric Robles revealed that he drew inspiration from classic '80s films, particularly The Goonies and The Lost Boys, as well as the 1986 animated series The Real Ghostbusters. He noted, "You have some really scary episodes within that series, whether it was the Boogieman or the Sandman episodes, and I just remember as a kid feeling that there was a difference in that kind of storytelling." This nostalgic feeling is at the heart of what Robles seeks to recreate in the new animated series.
Quick Facts — Stranger Things: Tales from '85
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| Platform(s) | Netflix |
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Serialized Storytelling
While The Real Ghostbusters featured episodic adventures over seven seasons, Robles envisioned Tales from '85 as a serialized story that builds upon itself. He stated, "I wanted the adventure to feel like it was going somewhere. The mystery was something that we all had to solve together." This approach encourages viewers to engage with the narrative on a deeper level, as they follow the characters through interconnected arcs rather than standalone episodes.
Setting and Atmosphere
The winter of '85 serves as the backdrop for the series, introducing a mutating monster that threatens the town of Hawkins. Robles explained, "These kids are looking at a sea of white snow, but what is underneath that snow?" This imagery enhances the atmosphere, creating a sense of suspense and intrigue as the characters navigate their chilling environment. The series draws on familiar tropes while presenting them in a fresh context.
Thematic Influences
Robles also referenced the film Alien as a significant influence, particularly in how the creature's lifecycle parallels the tension and suspense found in the series. He mentioned, "We created our own version of Jaws for this series based on the Upside Down." This thematic connection adds layers to the storytelling, allowing for a deeper exploration of fear and danger within the animated format.