'Stranger Things' perfectly captures '80s suburban America
What's the story
Ever since it premiered, Stranger Things has been winning hearts with its depiction of suburban America in the 1980s. The series effortlessly incorporates nostalgia into its storyline, painting an exquisite portrait of the time. From clothing to gadgets, everything is designed to remind us of the days we spent living in suburban areas. Here are five times Stranger Things nailed that nostalgia perfectly.
#1
The iconic mall experience
The Starcourt Mall in Stranger Things defines the mall culture of the 1980s to the T. Not only does it make for a cool social hangout for teenagers, but it also features some of the most popular stores and food courts from that time. Anyone who spent their weekends at malls, buying clothes or just soaking in the atmosphere, is bound to be hit by nostalgia.
#2
Classic board games and arcades
Board games and arcades are an integral part of Stranger Things, bringing back fond memories of popular pastimes from the 1980s. The characters often sit around board games or head to an arcade packed with classic machines like Pac-Man and Dig Dug. And, these scenes bring back memories of a time when entertainment was more about face-to-face interaction than digital screens.
#3
Vintage fashion statements
The fashion choices in Stranger Things are so meticulously designed to reflect the styles of the era that you may forget some of the clothing is actually terrible. From brightly colored windbreakers to high-waisted jeans, each outfit is a nod to iconic trends of the 80s. This attention to detail helps transport you back to an era defined by bold fashion statements.
#4
Retro technology depictions
Technology is also an integral part of setting the nostalgic tone of Stranger Things. The use of rotary phones, walkie-talkies, and vintage televisions captures how communication and entertainment were experienced before modern advancements took over. These elements serve as reminders of how much technology has evolved since then.
#5
Small-town community vibes
Hawkins, Indiana, is the perfect representation of small-town America, and the close-knit community feel that permeates throughout Stranger Things is what makes us love it so much. Neighbors know each other well, local events bring everyone together, and kids ride bikes freely around town without a worry in the world. These characteristics paint an idyllic picture, similar to what many of us grew up living through.