Welcome to the mysterious world of Hawkins, Indiana, where the supernatural meets the ordinary in the hit Netflix series, Stranger Things. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ve probably binge-watched all the seasons and immersed yourself in the nostalgic ’80s vibe. But did you know there’s a treasure trove of fascinating facts and trivia behind the scenes? In this blog post, we’ll unravel 15 mind-blowing insights about Stranger Things that will make you see the series in a whole new light.
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The Duffer Brothers’ Inspiration:
Stranger Things creators, the Duffer Brothers, drew inspiration from various sources, including Stephen King novels, Steven Spielberg films, and video games like Silent Hill. This mix of horror, suspense, and ’80s pop culture has crafted the unique and captivating universe we love.
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Eleven’s Real Name:
Did you ever wonder why Eleven is called Eleven? Well, it’s not just a random number. The character gets her name from the tattoo on her arm – “011,” signifying her as the eleventh test subject in the Hawkins National Laboratory’s experiments.
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Dustin’s Purr-fect Companion:
Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin, suffers from cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition affecting the development of bones and teeth. The Duffer Brothers incorporated Gaten’s condition into the show, making his character’s bond with the creature Dart even more heartwarming.
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The Demogorgon’s Origins:
The terrifying monster, the Demogorgon, takes its name from a Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) creature known for its destructive powers. The Duffer Brothers, avid D&D players, seamlessly integrated their passion for the game into the series.
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Stranger Titles:
Each episode title in Stranger Things hides a secret. If you take the first letter of each episode in the first season, it spells out the message: “R-U-N.” In the second season, it spells “M-A-D-E,” and in the third season, it spells “S-U-Z-I-D-O-Y-O-U-W-A-N-N-A-B-U-I-L-D-A-S-N-O-W-M-A-N?”
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Real-Life Friendship:
The camaraderie among the young cast members extends beyond the screen. The kids, often referred to as the “Stranger Things kids,” are close friends in real life, sharing a bond that contributes to the authenticity of their on-screen chemistry.
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Eggos and Eleven:
Eleven’s love for Eggo waffles is no random choice. The Duffer Brothers revealed that Eleven’s affinity for Eggos was inspired by a scene in the movie E.T., where the extraterrestrial creature tries the same breakfast treat.
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Millie Bobby Brown’s Audition:
Millie Bobby Brown, who portrays Eleven, left a lasting impression during her audition. She delivered an emotional scene from the show’s third episode, showcasing her remarkable acting skills even at a young age.
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The Iconic Mind Flayer:
The formidable Mind Flayer was brought to life using a combination of practical effects and CGI. The design of the monster draws inspiration from H.P. Lovecraft’s otherworldly creatures, adding a Lovecraftian touch to the show’s horror elements.
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Nancy and Jonathan’s Real-Life Romance:
The on-screen romance between Nancy and Jonathan, played by Natalia Dyer and Charlie Heaton, blossomed into a real-life relationship. The couple’s chemistry is not just acting – it’s a genuine connection that adds depth to their characters.
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Upside Down:
The eerie and parallel dimension known as the Upside Down was initially conceptualized as a dark and twisted version of the real world. The Duffer Brothers envisioned a place that mirrored reality but was corrupted by the presence of the monstrous entities.
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Winona Ryder’s Return:
Winona Ryder, who plays Joyce Byers, experienced a career resurgence with her role in Stranger Things. Her portrayal of a desperate mother searching for her son earned her critical acclaim and reaffirmed her status as a powerhouse actress.
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Hidden Stephen King References:
Stranger Things is a love letter to the works of Stephen King, and eagle-eyed fans have spotted numerous references throughout the series. From character names to plot points, the show pays homage to the master of horror in subtle and clever ways.
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Time Jumping:
The show’s creators decided to age the characters in real-time, giving the series a unique approach. As the young actors grow, so do their characters, allowing the audience to witness the natural progression of the story.
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Record-Breaking Success:
Stranger Things isn’t just a cultural phenomenon; it’s a record-breaking success for Netflix. With millions of viewers worldwide, the series has become one of the streaming platform’s most-watched and beloved originals.
Stranger Things continues to captivate audiences with its nostalgic charm, compelling characters, and supernatural mysteries. These 15 facts and trivia offer a glimpse into the creative minds behind the show and the intricate details that make Hawkins a place worth exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the Stranger Things universe, these insights are sure to enhance your appreciation for the series and leave you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this thrilling adventure.
Last modified: March 2, 2024
