5 ways 'Stranger Things' made the Upside Down terrifyingly real
What's the story
The Upside Down in Stranger Things has enthralled audiences with its creepy vibe and enigmatic character. The alternate dimension is an integral element of the show's narrative, adding more tension and mystery to it. While fans know its on-screen representation, here are five behind-the-scenes facts that make it so unique. These reveal the creative and technical efforts that went into making the alien world.
#1
Inspiration from real science
Did you know the idea of the Upside Down was based on actual scientific theories of parallel universes? The Duffer Brothers, the show's creators, did take inspiration from quantum mechanics and multiverse theories to create this alternate dimension. Having a scientific basis makes the fictional world all the more authentic and believable for viewers.
#2
Practical effects over CGI
To create the unsettling environment of the Upside Down, the production team often favored practical effects over CGI. They relied on physical props, smoke machines, and clever lighting techniques to make it look the way they wanted. This not only saved costs but also gave actors tangible elements to interact with during filming.
#3
Unique sound design techniques
Sound plays a major role in setting the mood of the Upside Down. The sound design team used unusual techniques such as recording underwater or distorted audio samples to create an unsettling auditory experience. These techniques amp up the tension and mystery surrounding this alternate dimension.
#4
Influence from classic horror films
The visual style of the Upside Down is reminiscent of classic films from decades gone by. The Duffer Brothers paid tribute to directors such as John Carpenter by using similar color palettes and camera angles. This touch of nostalgia strikes a chord with fans who love the nods to iconic cinema while watching Stranger Things.
#5
Collaborative effort across departments
Bringing Upside Down to life was no easy feat. It required set designers, special effects artists, costume designers, and other production teams to work seamlessly together to achieve a cohesive vision for this parallel universe depicted on screen. This effort truly captured the audience's imagination worldwide with meticulous attention to detail in each aspect involved in creating an immersive experience unlike anything seen on television thus far!