What inspired the monsters in 'Stranger Things'?
What's the story
Stranger Things has bewitched audiences with its perfect combination of science fiction and nostalgia. But one of the most mind-blowing aspects of the series is the design of its creatures, which are equally scary and fascinating. They take inspiration from a range of sources, mixing elements from iconic movies, books, and real-life phenomena to come up with something truly unique. Here's what inspired them.
Cinematic roots
Classic horror film influences
Stranger Things monsters borrow a lot from 1980s movies such as Alien and The Thing. The Demogorgon, with its unpredictable and menacing presence, closely resembles these extraterrestrial creatures. This tribute to the classics plays a huge role in defining the show's aesthetic, paying tribute to an era that significantly inspires its style.
Legendary Beasts
Mythological creatures as inspiration
Mythology also shapes some of the monsters we see in Stranger Things. For instance, creatures like Demogorgon have names based on ancient myths and legends. These mythological references lend depth to their characterizations by connecting them to stories that have been told for centuries. This connection enriches their presence within the narrative by giving them a timeless quality.
Real-world science
Scientific phenomena influence design
Real-world scientific phenomena also inspire monster designs in Stranger Things. Concepts such as parallel dimensions and biological anomalies contribute to their creation process. The Upside Down itself is reminiscent of theories about alternate realities existing alongside our world but remaining unseen due to limitations within human perception or technology at the present time.
Literary inspirations
Literature's role in shaping monsters
Literature also provides another well to draw from when creating these iconic creatures that populate Stranger Things. The works of authors like Stephen King provide rich material when it comes to designing new threats that characters face each season. You can see his impact even through the themes explored within the episodes themselves, too!