The untold stories behind the making of 'Stranger Things'
What's the story
Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its blend of '80s nostalgia and supernatural intrigue. While the show's storyline and characters are widely discussed, there are several behind-the-scenes secrets that fans may not be aware of. These insights offer a glimpse into the creative process and challenges faced by the cast and crew. Here are five intriguing facts that reveal more about the making of this iconic series.
#1
The casting process was intense
The casting process for Stranger Things was no walk in the park. The Duffer Brothers were adamant about finding the right actors who could embody their characters perfectly. They held auditions across multiple cities, meeting hundreds of hopefuls before finally settling on the final cast. Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven, was one of the first to be cast after her audition left everyone in awe.
#2
Filming locations were carefully chosen
The filming locations for Stranger Things were carefully chosen to match the show's nostalgic vibe. Most of the series is shot in and around Atlanta, Georgia, which has a number of locations that look like they belong to a small town in the 1980s. The production team even transformed an old middle school into Hawkins Middle School to get the right look.
#3
Special effects were kept minimal
Unlike many modern-day shows that heavily rely on CGI, Stranger Things opted for practical effects wherever possible. The Duffer Brothers wanted to keep the authenticity of the story intact by using real props and makeup effects instead of digital ones as much as they could. This decision not only added to the show's vintage feel but also made it easier for actors to interact with their surroundings.
#4
Music played a key role in storytelling
Music has always been an integral part of Stranger Things, both in terms of score and soundtrack choices. Composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, the score is a tribute to the synth-heavy sounds of the '80s, while the curated soundtrack features songs from that era that go hand-in-hand with pivotal scenes in each season.
#5
Upside-down set design was challenging
Creating Stranger Things was no easy task for the design team. The eerie parallel dimension required meticulous planning to get right on screen without going overboard with effects or losing its unique look within the narrative context established throughout previous episodes.