essay

Introduction
Stranger Things is an American science fiction/horror hybrid web series created by the Duffer Brothers. The whole first season (comprising of eight episodes of 42-55 minutes) was released on Netflix on July 15th 2016 for instant viewing. Its target audience is very broad as one of its USPs, the 1980s setting, means it appeals to adults born in that decade (28-37 year olds) but the younger actors such as Millie Bobby Brown, Natalia Dyer, and Charlie Heaton means it appeals to an audience of around 13-20 years old. Another USP that might draw older viewers in is the fact it stars Winona Ryder, a noted ‘90s teen star, so that could increase the nostalgia factor.

Settings and Locations
The show is set in the fictional rural town of Hawkins, Indiana. This small-town setting is typical of the horror genre: Twin Peaks, Under the Dome, and Wayward Pines all utilise this trope. The show also uses the concept of making the home and areas of comfort a place under threat. The area where Will feels safe- Castle Byers- is where he is in danger of being killed by the Demogorgon. The Demogorgon materialises in his house and even at his school, making spaces where he should feel safe uncanny.

The laboratory is also a generic trope of horror. This setting is one of unease- it’s cold and sterile and is often a setting where awful things happen, so the audience knows what to expect.