'Stranger Things': The storytelling secrets behind TV's biggest phenomenon
What's the story
Stranger Things has kept audiences hooked around the world with its interesting plot and nostalgic references. Although the show has become a cultural phenomenon, the writers keep a lot of behind-the-scenes secrets under wraps. Here are some such insights that give us a peek into the creative process and decision-making behind the show's success.
#1
The inspiration for Hawkins
Though it's a fictional town, Hawkins is reminiscent of small towns across America. The writers took inspiration from their own lives as they grew up in the same environment, which made it easy for them to bring authenticity. This way, audiences are able to relate with the characters and their lives. With elements from their own lives, the writers make sure Hawkins is both relatable and mysterious.
#2
Character development techniques
Character development is critical in Stranger Things, and the writers employ certain techniques to make characters unforgettable. They concentrate on building detailed backstories for every character, which is what drives their actions and decisions in the series. This depth adds layers to every character's personality, making them more relatable and engaging for viewers.
#3
Crafting suspenseful plot twists
The show is famous for its suspenseful plot twists that keep you at the edge of your seat. The writers carefully plan these twists much in advance, making sure they fit the character arcs and the overall story. By planting subtle hints in the beginning, they create anticipation without revealing too much too early. The careful planning keeps the audience guessing while retaining narrative coherence.
#4
Balancing nostalgia with originality
A key element of Stranger Things is its balance between nostalgia and originality. The writers include references from 1980s pop culture but also introduce fresh ideas that resonate with modern audiences. This blend creates a unique viewing experience that appeals to both older fans who appreciate nostalgic elements and younger viewers drawn to innovative storytelling techniques.
Tip 5
Collaborative writing process
The writing team works closely with each other through the entire development process of each season. They regularly conduct brainstorming sessions where ideas are thrown around freely among team members, before being honed into cohesive scripts by the lead writers or showrunners like Matt Duffer or Ross Duffer themselves. This way, different perspectives come together to create compelling narratives through all episodes in any season.