Absolutely loved it. My only complaint is that the bad guys were a little inconsistent. Benny gets killed just for having seen Eleven, but Hopper breaks into their facility and is allowed to live? Whut?
Hmm idk, I think they could've quite easily made it look like he got drunk, depressed and suicidal. Don't get me wrong I'm glad they didn't kill him, just kinda surprised they didn't.
@Blackpearl 321 I'd say it's more akin to plot armor since he was a main character and Benny wasn't. Except for the villain, no main character died in the show
Adam J. Harper i respect your comment, but what exactly makes it a greatly acted show? I don’t feel enveloped in the story at all and i couldn’t care less what was going on. Personally it’s just not my cup of tee and i’ve see much better acting in my time. Granted they are kids so they do a decent job, but then again does eleven do anything other than look down and angry haha
Adam J. Harper well, Barb was the best actor and they hardly used her. But seriously, i would agree with every movie you listed. And throw goodfellas in there. And anything my man TC, aka tom cruse is in
Tyler Gable It was extremely well acted. Honestly, let's see you sell it better. All the characters were well developed and their thoughts and traits come out in their expressions and gestures as much as their lines, which is harder than you seem to think and a sign of good acting. Take your negativity elsewhere because because not only was the acting phenomenal, but the writing was amazing as well. Just because it's not your type of show, which I respect, don't get me wrong, you can't go around saying it's poorly acted
i love the music. i listen to carpenter soundtracks a lot anyway so it was right up my alley.. as well as tangerine dream , kraftwerk and any synthwave really
Good review. The copying/homages... didnt bother me, didnt even notice them. I feel like the "unexplained" nature is whats so great about how it ends. They dont need to explain and justify every little detail, i think it ends with a great balance of mystery and satisfaction. A+ show! Best TV ive seen in a short while
There was one part that felt a LOT like E.T. (when they were on the bikes) and it was one of Elevens coolest scenes in the whole show, so I forgave it.
Chris, big fan but never comment. This is the first show I have seen in a long time that does it the way this has. I think it's a game changer. Not only because of its content but also because of its structure. It doesn't feel like a TV show, it feels like a movie, an 8 hour movie. And in doing so, it neutralises the need to have silly subplots and episodic fillers. The movie nature of the structure allows characterisation to really be the focus in a tight and focused manner. If you've noticed the pacing is very good. I think we'll be seeing a lot more than shows hitting the 8 episode mark.
And that's why mini-series are my favorite media format. They combine the compact structure of a film, the flexibility of a TV series, and the overall production value of something in between. Most shows in America go by the "make as many episodes until it stops making money" mindset, and most films are made with the blockbuster mindset which focuses more on action and exposition and less on character and emotional development. I'm glad that mini-series have been getting popular in the past few years, and I hope we see more shows of this same quality.
+MoBeeLex Fargo was incredible. But I think a lot of people who like stranger things wouldn't like Fargo because of the shift in maturity level and intelligence.
A) She was distracted by Barbara missing... so her priorities were a bit shifted... and... B) This was 1983. The concept of dangerous stalkers wasn't nearly as amplified as it is today. On top of that, photography was a more dedicated/respected hobby than it is today (where you can casually film/taking pictures of people with your phone).
Tbh I think the tributes were well done, they weren't too long and drawn out, they were shuttle tbh. I rather do tributes than to make a full garbage re-make of something.
When you put it like that yes this was way better then some remake! Remakes never give you the same feelings as when you watch the original anyway. The people in charge normally fuck it up with their artistic license to add too much or take out something key and it's like "You might as well have just made an original IP and not waste ppls time and money" xD
no they were pretty overt. at times it got pretty tiring for me. While it's not a cinematic sin to give homage to inspirations, at a certain point when overly frequented the show loses an identity for itself
I for one only recognized the E.T. bike chase, but that's just me. 80s illiterate. All I know is second-hand knowledge, passed down through references, dilute and invisible. Teach me, so I may share in your wisdom. *bows down*
Didn't know anything about this show and saw it on Netflix for a week or so before I decided to watch it just to pass time. I ended up watching all 8 episodes straight through. I can't even imagine how a person could give this a negative review. This is already one of my favorite things I have ever seen.
The other thing I love about this show is when they let you care for every single character, the character development is so well thought out and I freaking love it.
Honestly If i wa navy I probably would have went back with my ‘boyfriend’. I didn’t mind who she ended with but at least the other boy showed he does care for her
I just binged the entirety of 'Stranger Things' over the course of one very snowy day and all I have to say is wow. Just wow. What a beautiful, heart warming, heart wrenching, terrifying, hilarious, suspenseful, well written, well acted, well shot, well directed and downright amazing series! I cannot stress enough how much I recommend this thing. Watch it ASAP! As for me? I'll be stowed away, waiting for Halloween... ;)
it s fight club plus hacking, with some great visuals, but i would say it s not that much of homage to fight club as more kinda same broad ideas, stranger things is one big 80s nostalgia movie collection meshed together, MR ROBOT is not like that at all
@@justsomegirlwithoutamustache the sequels are fine but are nothing compared to the character balancing and engaging story in s1. S4 is definitely the most intriguing the show has been since it started but the finale was a bit of a disappointment, I'm still looking forward to how they wrap the series up tho.
The big thing for him is would he have the charisma to carry an entire movie like that? He was great as this troubled almost depressed character but Indiana Jones is fun. Also age might be an issue.
that's exactly what I was thinking watching this. At first I'm like there's so many kids in this show and I'm gonna hate it, but they really pulled off those performances well.
Child actors are looked down on so often. There are a lot of great young acting talent out there. This is just one that shows it off. Some others are Super 8, (Specifically Joel Courtney and Elle Fanning) The Perks of being a wallflower, Rocket Science, (Underrated) The Spectacular now, The way way back, and The dangerous lives of altar boys
I absolutely loved this show. I was a kid in the 80's and this was spot-on stylistically for the era. From the posters hanging on the walls to the rotary phone, they didnt miss anything. I loved the child actors. They were so believable and they did act age appropriate for the times. Eleven was by far my favorite. That little girl can act. I thought it was a tribute in itself to have Wynonna Ryder and Matthew Modine in this since they were such popular actors in the 80's. I can't think of one thing I would change in this show. It was fun to watch with my teenagers and tell them "Yep kids, thats how things really used to be." Can't wait for season 2.
Having grown up in the 80s I consider myself a subject matter expert. This show was 100% on point with everything they tried to recreate from that time. I would give it an A+++ because everything was so perfect....the theme music, the story, the acting and the casting. The Duffer brothers were clearly heavily influenced by King and Spielberg but because they did it so well they get a pass for copying. I think it was obviously them paying homage to the people and the work they deeply respect. The 3 friends were my favorite part of the show. Don't know where they found these kids but they all did an excellent job.
Smart 13 yr old who knows everything You are clearly in the minority with your opinion which is fine. Have whatever opinion you want but then why come on here and make a smart ass comment to me...someone who clearly likes the show. You kinda come off like a troll when you admit to not liking a show but then come to a video with a positive review and response to a comment that shows appreciation for it.
no because the show covered that. she touched the monster while she as in the sensory deprivation tank and the monster escaped into our world. during the uproar in the lap she escaped through the pipe. thats why hopper was shown the fake footage of the night will dissapeared, because the footage showed el escaping.
I just asked the same question, Chris completely fails in his review to mentioned the insane "silent Hill like" ambience which really made me think: Wow this is a really scary horror movie!
My biggest gripe is how NOBODY CARED ABOUT FUCKING BARBARA THAT PISSED ME THE FUCK OFF THE WHOLE SHOW!!!!! not even her parents, only Nancy but that wasnt enough, a girl went missing, and her parents didnt even call a search party? ran away boi vut? idk this better be addressed in season 2.
Ryan Kelley acually I like that she ended up with steve because I started to like him at the end, and if they were not together he wouldn't be in season 2
Eleven is a rising star, as are the other kids. The only problem I had with the show was the ending. It felt too loose and unsatisfying. I would still recommend everyone watch it though. There were no bad performances in this show.
A "sequel" to the first season was already confirmed from Netflix within the first 2 weeks of the show coming out. They will most likely wrap up the loose ends and finish off the story with these characters and move on to another group of people within the same "Stranger Things" world.
Yeah this show really brings a lot of new talent to the table. I enjoyed every single performance, especially that of the younger actors. They really stitched together one of the most talented batch of young actors they could get.
A- ? I think even though you found few similarities with some movies and books still doesn’t undermine how great, gripping, bingeworthy this show was. It could get in a way of getting A+ but this show definitely deserves an A
you know what I love most about your reviews? your not trying to shoehorn in jokes into every 10 seconds like other reviewers on RUclips. your legitimently passionate about film and it shows. its like having a conversation with an old friend who wants to share something with you. you treat your audience with respect and don't insult our intelegence. and for that, I am truly grateful. I want to share your channel with all my friends
When Moby's "When It's Cold I'd Like to Die" plays on the final episode, I cried. It was such a perfect music choice for such an emotional sequence. So well done. :')
Hey Chris, My wife & I are watching through Stranger Things now, and particularly being 80s kids, we're enjoying it a lot. Wanted to take a moment to say I really enjoyed your book, and you are basically my go-to critic (especially now that Ebert has unfortunately passed) for what I think is almost always a spot-on, fair review. I thought you'd like to know that around my work, when people have discussed movie critics, your name comes up a lot. I've been a fan of yours for a while, but I was thrilled to see a bunch of people I know also name-drop you without my having to say, "hey, have you heard of this guy?..." A lot of people see the quality in your work! So, congratulations, looking forward to book 2, and please keep it up!
Rewatching this amazing work of art in 2024, I love the 80s genre of movies, I love to see you review and connect with this source material always Chris. You are my favorite movie man
I just watched season 1 and it’s freaking awesome and loved every character and the actors did a phenomenal job. I know I’m late but I just started watching season 1 yesterday and today I just finished it and now I will watch season 2.
I loved Stranger Things, couldn't stop watching it. The characters were so well realized, the setting was perfect. I loved every second of it. Oh and the soundtrack was perfect. A+
Thank you for all your reviews. MY 18 yr old autistic son dreams of doing what your doing and has since he was so young. and man he never fails to deliver me great movies to watch. he looks up to u sooo much as he helps pass time for me as i recover from a terrible wreck these last years while he lovingly cares for me .... watching many and critiquing like you... or watching what you recommend. thank you for helping him grow and for all your great picks! his name is Josiah... and i know he thanks you too! we loved this show... you nailed it again. Ashli and jo. ps he is excited to find your book! congratulations!!
I love the show, it was fantastic. All the actors were perfect in their roles. Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard and Noah Schnapp (despite not being on screen as long as the other characters) were in my opinion, the standout actors. Hopefully in a new season Noah's character Will, will be featured more.
"Yes! I like that. That's good. I like the way that feels. You're touching the right places." Phrasing. "This is like an adult performance squeezed into a little girl's body" PHRASING!!!
I was thinking about Koontz as well. The character of 011 could also have beeen inspired by the boy in The Eyes of Darkness, and the dimensional warp reminded me of the "sideways" dimensions from Fear Nothing.
Also the bar hopper goes to is called Hideaway. I was pretty sure that was deliberately referencing Koontz's novel of that name. Eleven is very similar to the Door to December character with the whole sensory deprivation for telepathy thing, but I'm pretty sure that was lifted straight out of the whole MKultra thing. So it could be they both drew inspiration from the same source rather than Eleven being drawn from Koontz's character.
Actually, Eleven is inspired by an anime called "Elfen Lied" (confirmed by the Duffers), where the character's story is very similar, sans the MK Ultra angle and the fact that there are others like her. I completely agree that the Hideaway bar was a nod to Koontz though ^^
I loved Stranger Things. A+ for sure. But I'm really skeptical about season 2. It's going to be too much like a sequel, and sequels almost always suck.
It’s weird how fast time feels like it’s going… 2016 simply does not feel that far away… And it’s sad to look at the comments here, and the comments on any video about the other seasons.
This was an absolute A+ for me!! As someone who generally dislikes TV shows, this one was riveting and had me on the edge of my seat all the way through! I feel like the references were more of an homage that didn't detract from the overall adventure
Seriously Chris, I really respect your reviews but you really failed to do a good one on the stranger things. You never really mentioned the "scary factor" on this one. Yes it borrows many aspects from E.T. but you did not accentuate the fact that this show is absolutely not for children as one may suggest and actually quite scary in some moments. I really had the feeling in some parts that this is a horror movie, this combined with the sentimental connection between the characters really and I mean really makes you connect with them. I'm a little bit dissapointed with your review as you concentrated on the obvious but you never mentioned that this show, apart from being like a thriller, is actually a horror movie split in 8 parts. I absolutely loved the style, the music (oh my god the music is incredible) and the actors on this one. For me it was an absolute solid A+!!!
Main problem with this show: THE GROUP OF KIDS DIDN'T HAVE A NAME!!! There were moments I was rooting for them going like "GO!! ehh.... KIDS!!!" They just needed a kickass group name and this show would've been a PITCH PERFECT 80's movies homage...
I'm glad you pointed out the fine line between homage and replication. It reminded me of the controversy surrounding Tarantino and his homage/ replication.
Story is a massive let down in this, stylistically very good and an outstanding performance from the girl who played 11. But very cliche, clunky dialogue and plot developments. Too many instances whereby people said or did things out of character or were too conveniently stupid or slow in order to aid or suspend the story development. For 8 episodes we should have been offered more plot development, feels like the producers havent really worked out how to explain it all. Alot of the characters, excluding the sheriff and Wills mother were very 1 dimensional too - the show could have explored the horror of the characters realising that the were living alongside monsters, it didnt really explore that genuine fear or emotional depth.
So seeing a monster climb out a wall and then seeing someone's reaction to said monster, and then seeing them run outside, stop in front of a car, and break down into tears of shock doesn't count as emotional depth to such a situation?
+Angel Pygs he said excluding Will's mother. I agree with him, the kids should have been freaking out, especially at the climax when the monster was coming to kill them.
Not only were there moments paying omage to 80s Spielberg and Steven King like you mentioned, but also I got some serious Akira vibes from this show as well. Can't wait to see the next season
All of these kids are terrific actors. Especially Finn Wolfhard. That kid is talented, its hard to find a kid that young with great acting chops. I'm looking forward to seeing him in bigger things. As Robin alongside Ben Affleck's batman maybe? He looks a lot like Ezra Miller, so maybe he could play Barry Allen in the Flashpoint movie.
And their is a dirty dancing reference and a ferris days off, it is so true everything you had to say. It's cool to see Winona in a role that has totally stretched her acting skills it's amazing how much she has grown as an actress. She is great. Everyone in it is.
The police office was by far the best part of the show for me. He had so much depth and really sold the part.
The last episode broke my heart.
Hopper!!!
Even though El was easily my favorite character I do feel as if Hopper had the best overall character arc in the show.
yeah, he held the show together
Why bad guys didn't kill him?
Absolutely loved it. My only complaint is that the bad guys were a little inconsistent. Benny gets killed just for having seen Eleven, but Hopper breaks into their facility and is allowed to live? Whut?
Hmm idk, I think they could've quite easily made it look like he got drunk, depressed and suicidal. Don't get me wrong I'm glad they didn't kill him, just kinda surprised they didn't.
Sometimes directors or writers make this kind of mistakes intentionally to get people talking.
@Blackpearl 321 I'd say it's more akin to plot armor since he was a main character and Benny wasn't. Except for the villain, no main character died in the show
Benny knew nothing other than taking eleven in to have some food. Hopper found out everything.
Ice Reduction Through Daughter Combustion good question. I would just say plot armor.
The acting in this show is phenomenal.
It’s really not
Adam J. Harper i respect your comment, but what exactly makes it a greatly acted show? I don’t feel enveloped in the story at all and i couldn’t care less what was going on. Personally it’s just not my cup of tee and i’ve see much better acting in my time.
Granted they are kids so they do a decent job, but then again does eleven do anything other than look down and angry haha
Adam J. Harper well, Barb was the best actor and they hardly used her.
But seriously, i would agree with every movie you listed. And throw goodfellas in there. And anything my man TC, aka tom cruse is in
Especially for little kids
Tyler Gable It was extremely well acted. Honestly, let's see you sell it better. All the characters were well developed and their thoughts and traits come out in their expressions and gestures as much as their lines, which is harder than you seem to think and a sign of good acting. Take your negativity elsewhere because because not only was the acting phenomenal, but the writing was amazing as well. Just because it's not your type of show, which I respect, don't get me wrong, you can't go around saying it's poorly acted
The soundtrack to Stranger Things is probably my favorite for a TV show, ever. Including Buffy.
it's very sincy, very Buffy season one
Josie Zimmermann It sounds like something John Carpenter would have done to me
99% sounding like Carpenter was an intentional move.
Sounded just like "Wanna Fight?" from the Only God Forgives soundtrack
You need to watch Lost
"an adult performance squeezed into a little girl's body".....speaks for itself
Phrasing
+william corey dude thats a bit of a spoiler
+Sonya Doshy considering how long it's been since that episode I don't think it matters. if it does to some people I apologize
Are you making a sex joke about a little girl?
Lava Bender I was interpreting one
Don't ever say "adult performance squeezed into a little girl's body" again.
Fernando Marroquin I laughed out loud when I read that😂.
Your profile pic matches with your comment so well!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Name and pfp checks out.
@Fernando Marroquin we all understood what he meant, it just sounds wrong.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
1:27 close your eyes and listen to Chris
Lmao 😂
It sounds like right in the middle of saying that he released what he was saying and than he just ran with it
JustJoe OMFG😂😂😂
AHAHAHAHAAHAHAAHAAHAHAAHAHAHAHAH😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
god bless you
The soundtrack might be the best part
Agree
Especially that intro!
i love the music. i listen to carpenter soundtracks a lot anyway so it was right up my alley.. as well as tangerine dream , kraftwerk and any synthwave really
I never skipped the intro. Ever.
it's so smooth and calm yet so catchy, I love it
Good review. The copying/homages... didnt bother me, didnt even notice them. I feel like the "unexplained" nature is whats so great about how it ends. They dont need to explain and justify every little detail, i think it ends with a great balance of mystery and satisfaction. A+ show! Best TV ive seen in a short while
Short while meaning since breaking bad I assume.
Why are you everywhere Xisuma!!!!???
XISUMA!
hey xisuma good to see you here .... surprising too tho ....
Yoo xisuma
Don't give a shit about copying tbh. It's fucking great.
Right? Not like it copied an entire movie, it took elements from many movies imo making it very original.
+nugz fan exactly!
There was one part that felt a LOT like E.T. (when they were on the bikes) and it was one of Elevens coolest scenes in the whole show, so I forgave it.
Show is trash
Why shouldn't he? He watched the show and formed an opinion. You dont need to agree.
Chris, big fan but never comment. This is the first show I have seen in a long time that does it the way this has.
I think it's a game changer. Not only because of its content but also because of its structure. It doesn't feel like a TV show, it feels like a movie, an 8 hour movie. And in doing so, it neutralises the need to have silly subplots and episodic fillers. The movie nature of the structure allows characterisation to really be the focus in a tight and focused manner. If you've noticed the pacing is very good.
I think we'll be seeing a lot more than shows hitting the 8 episode mark.
I sure hope so! Not many things can get away with a consistently high quality script + more than 10 episodes per season, in my opinion.
You should watch the Fagor tv show then.
And that's why mini-series are my favorite media format. They combine the compact structure of a film, the flexibility of a TV series, and the overall production value of something in between. Most shows in America go by the "make as many episodes until it stops making money" mindset, and most films are made with the blockbuster mindset which focuses more on action and exposition and less on character and emotional development. I'm glad that mini-series have been getting popular in the past few years, and I hope we see more shows of this same quality.
If you think this was a good episodic film you need to watch True Detective Season One.
+MoBeeLex Fargo was incredible. But I think a lot of people who like stranger things wouldn't like Fargo because of the shift in maturity level and intelligence.
should I stay or should I go
energizer61bunny if i go there will be trouble. but if i stay it might me double
DAREDEVIL, LUKE CAGE JESSICA JONES, IRON FIST
So come on and let me know,
Should I stay or should I go?
energizer61bunny stay
Now
Was anyone else slightly thrown off by how cool Nancy was with Johnathan taking those photos?
A) She was distracted by Barbara missing... so her priorities were a bit shifted...
and...
B) This was 1983. The concept of dangerous stalkers wasn't nearly as amplified as it is today. On top of that, photography was a more dedicated/respected hobby than it is today (where you can casually film/taking pictures of people with your phone).
Right plus at first she was soooo irrelevant
that part really reminded me of the creepy camera guy from "american beauty"
Except he, somehow, got the girl
Michael Deeks LMFAOOOO because she lowkey liked him.
Tbh I think the tributes were well done, they weren't too long and drawn out, they were shuttle tbh. I rather do tributes than to make a full garbage re-make of something.
Subtle*
I watched it and only since i was born after the 1980s these tributes didn't bother me at all
When you put it like that yes this was way better then some remake! Remakes never give you the same feelings as when you watch the original anyway. The people in charge normally fuck it up with their artistic license to add too much or take out something key and it's like "You might as well have just made an original IP and not waste ppls time and money" xD
no they were pretty overt. at times it got pretty tiring for me. While it's not a cinematic sin to give homage to inspirations, at a certain point when overly frequented the show loses an identity for itself
I for one only recognized the E.T. bike chase, but that's just me. 80s illiterate. All I know is second-hand knowledge, passed down through references, dilute and invisible. Teach me, so I may share in your wisdom.
*bows down*
Didn't know anything about this show and saw it on Netflix for a week or so before I decided to watch it just to pass time. I ended up watching all 8 episodes straight through. I can't even imagine how a person could give this a negative review. This is already one of my favorite things I have ever seen.
Exact same situation for me, saw it, read the summary, never heard of it so i passed it until one day i was bored and decided to watch. Incredible
Same. I was completely blown away by this.
The other thing I love about this show is when they let you care for every single character, the character development is so well thought out and I freaking love it.
My boy Jonathan didn't make his move
Jose Aguilar yes he did
Honestly If i wa navy I probably would have went back with my ‘boyfriend’.
I didn’t mind who she ended with but at least the other boy showed he does care for her
Well he took pictures of her like a creep I guess that counts
um
Yes he did
I just binged the entirety of 'Stranger Things' over the course of one very snowy day and all I have to say is wow. Just wow. What a beautiful, heart warming, heart wrenching, terrifying, hilarious, suspenseful, well written, well acted, well shot, well directed and downright amazing series! I cannot stress enough how much I recommend this thing. Watch it ASAP! As for me? I'll be stowed away, waiting for Halloween... ;)
Jordan W S I just finished binge watching it all night long. Amazing.
Victor Greenwood
LOL “its not that good” hunny, dare i say this, its the most popular tv show on netflix lmaaaooo
The Four Horsemen
It became popular because it was good.
Very good description, couldn't agree more.
Same!!
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its a joke ok
I don't get it.
Lol
I gave you a like for creativity.
hahaha
It wasn't funny. Go f*ck yourself.
i am glad you are doing this, i hope you find the time to do MR ROBOT and other cool shows
***** what does MR robot resembles ? i think it s like what happens after the ending of fight club
+JmDonahue but it was unexpected
it s fight club plus hacking, with some great visuals, but i would say it s not that much of homage to fight club as more kinda same broad ideas, stranger things is one big 80s nostalgia movie collection meshed together, MR ROBOT is not like that at all
Mr Robot is one of my favourite shows right now, along with "The Night Of", it would be awesome if he reviewed more shows
+Mohamed haRidy Fight club and dexter
I think Stranger things really deserve at least an A tbh if not an A+.
The show is an overall B after season 4 came out, but season 1 was definitely an A
@@justsomegirlwithoutamustache the sequels are fine but are nothing compared to the character balancing and engaging story in s1. S4 is definitely the most intriguing the show has been since it started but the finale was a bit of a disappointment, I'm still looking forward to how they wrap the series up tho.
Is it just me or would Harper be an AMAZING Indiana Jones
Thank you God, he at least put it in the A grade scale… but I would give it an A+
Hopper
+Jay Jay whatever
The big thing for him is would he have the charisma to carry an entire movie like that? He was great as this troubled almost depressed character but Indiana Jones is fun. Also age might be an issue.
Don't just dismiss a correction like that. Accept it and improve.
Can we give a shoutout to the child actors. Child actors are normally so bad, and it was awesome to see som half decent talent
that's exactly what I was thinking watching this. At first I'm like there's so many kids in this show and I'm gonna hate it, but they really pulled off those performances well.
This show and Game of Thrones have the best child actors no doubt
Child actors are looked down on so often. There are a lot of great young acting talent out there. This is just one that shows it off. Some others are Super 8, (Specifically Joel Courtney and Elle Fanning) The Perks of being a wallflower, Rocket Science, (Underrated) The Spectacular now, The way way back, and The dangerous lives of altar boys
HazardlyNP Half decent might even be an understatement.
Half decent? More like fucking mind blowing!
I absolutely loved this show. I was a kid in the 80's and this was spot-on stylistically for the era. From the posters hanging on the walls to the rotary phone, they didnt miss anything. I loved the child actors. They were so believable and they did act age appropriate for the times. Eleven was by far my favorite. That little girl can act. I thought it was a tribute in itself to have Wynonna Ryder and Matthew Modine in this since they were such popular actors in the 80's. I can't think of one thing I would change in this show. It was fun to watch with my teenagers and tell them "Yep kids, thats how things really used to be." Can't wait for season 2.
Having grown up in the 80s I consider myself a subject matter expert. This show was 100% on point with everything they tried to recreate from that time. I would give it an A+++ because everything was so perfect....the theme music, the story, the acting and the casting. The Duffer brothers were clearly heavily influenced by King and Spielberg but because they did it so well they get a pass for copying. I think it was obviously them paying homage to the people and the work they deeply respect. The 3 friends were my favorite part of the show. Don't know where they found these kids but they all did an excellent job.
An A+++? Guessing you haven't gotten around to any shows made for people older than 15?
I agree !!!!! Very authentic
+Smart 13 yr old who knows everything does it make you mad that somebody likes a show that you don't? you poor little thing
OctoJelly I just don't appreciate a show that gets a lot of credit that it shouldn't. I have no problem with anyone enjoying it.
Smart 13 yr old who knows everything You are clearly in the minority with your opinion which is fine. Have whatever opinion you want but then why come on here and make a smart ass comment to me...someone who clearly likes the show. You kinda come off like a troll when you admit to not liking a show but then come to a video with a positive review and response to a comment that shows appreciation for it.
Chris that was great! Please do a spoiler review for this!! There's lots of deeper aspects in the show I'd like to know your thoughts on!
yee
He could also do the over analysis thing he does, I would love that.
And after his 'Enemy Explained' video, I really want to see Stranger Things spoilers video.
I'd love to hear his thoughts about the ending, especially foreshadowing with that D&D session!
+
I don't know if it's just me; but this show reminded me of Super 8.
Actually the show succeeded in what Super8 try to do but failed: Recreating 80s nostalgia without totally sucking ass
a way better version of Super 8
+Alisha Smith they are filming one at the moment
DemarJohnsonFilms loved that movie
DemarJohnsonFilms so true
Loving this show so far. On episode 5 i think
Who else loved the teacher?
his mustache was awesome!
Lmao i got scared thinking he was gonna' die lol
he made me care about science.
Felipe Sanmartín I want him as my science teacher.
me 🎯
is nobody going to ask how eleven broke out of the laboratory?!
no because the show covered that. she touched the monster while she as in the sensory deprivation tank and the monster escaped into our world. during the uproar in the lap she escaped through the pipe. thats why hopper was shown the fake footage of the night will dissapeared, because the footage showed el escaping.
thatvirgosoul good question !! but i think in the end u see eleven overpoweers the bodygaurds and escapes
With her telekinesis duh
thatvirgosoul she crawled through sewer pipes the “length of 3 football fields”. (Hence the dirt on her patient gown)
She ran away in the chaos of the demogorgon attack and crawled through that pipe
sounds like super 8, but better
It is. Very good
super 8?? never heard of it. "Stranger Things" is alot like "Train Monster" though
Allan Tuna yup
Yeah, I enjoyed Super 8 a lot but I think this show is better
Allan Tuna Don't you mean A Weekly Wakadodoo?
No one is going to mention all the Silent Hill-ness going on ? lol
word
The Upside Down reminded me of a tool music video
I just asked the same question, Chris completely fails in his review to mentioned the insane "silent Hill like" ambience which really made me think: Wow this is a really scary horror movie!
I would describe it as much more of a thriller than a horror. The show was intense but never really scary.
Yeah it reminded me of Silent Hill as well, though that's mainly just because of the particles falling from the sky..
My biggest gripe is how NOBODY CARED ABOUT FUCKING BARBARA THAT PISSED ME THE FUCK OFF THE WHOLE SHOW!!!!! not even her parents, only Nancy but that wasnt enough, a girl went missing, and her parents didnt even call a search party? ran away boi vut? idk this better be addressed in season 2.
Yeah that was one of the issues I had with the show but other than that, was pretty awesome show!
+Lets Talk yeah that was the only thing that made me feel weird but everything else was really good!
ßryant ßlue You might enjoy my review for the show I just uploaded on my Channel! I'm looking for some feedback cause I just started this channel. :)
+Lets Talk okay will do!
ßryant ßlue Thank you! ✌️
i still don't like how Nancy didn't end up with jonathan
right
+mr Stevenson true! season 2 they will be most likely... but i don't think they have any chemistry between them. idk
just me?
Ryan Kelley acually I like that she ended up with steve because I started to like him at the end, and if they were not together he wouldn't be in season 2
mr Stevenson i liked him too but i like jonathan better
deadgamer but this way they can both be in season 2
Eleven is a rising star, as are the other kids. The only problem I had with the show was the ending. It felt too loose and unsatisfying.
I would still recommend everyone watch it though. There were no bad performances in this show.
I'm sure there's gonna be another season. probably the reason for the annoying ending.
there is, still not confirmed yet but netflix has renewed worse shows.
yeah these kids careers are heading in a good direction
A "sequel" to the first season was already confirmed from Netflix within the first 2 weeks of the show coming out. They will most likely wrap up the loose ends and finish off the story with these characters and move on to another group of people within the same "Stranger Things" world.
Yeah this show really brings a lot of new talent to the table. I enjoyed every single performance, especially that of the younger actors. They really stitched together one of the most talented batch of young actors they could get.
This show is an A+, instant classic, and now among my all time favorites, will be re-watching it for years.
Agree with the grade.
And Milli Bobby Brown is a gem. Her performance was beyond her years. Surrounded by so much talent.
Can't wait for Season Two
A- ? I think even though you found few similarities with some movies and books still doesn’t undermine how great, gripping, bingeworthy this show was. It could get in a way of getting A+ but this show definitely deserves an A
you know what I love most about your reviews? your not trying to shoehorn in jokes into every 10 seconds like other reviewers on RUclips. your legitimently passionate about film and it shows. its like having a conversation with an old friend who wants to share something with you. you treat your audience with respect and don't insult our intelegence. and for that, I am truly grateful. I want to share your channel with all my friends
Would like to get your thoughts on Preacher. If you haven't watched it, you should definitely check it out.
+Scott Sieg opinion
or outcast ^.^
that show is meh I mean it's not shit but it's not that great either
+philbox3productions Basically described stranger things.
Smart 13 yr old who knows everything I actually enjoyed stranger things a lot more than I enjoyed preacher
this show is a love letter to the 80s. best decade ever!
Ron Weasley throwing up slugs. Just sayin'.
I loved all the mystery surrounding everything in this season, had me hooked
When Moby's "When It's Cold I'd Like to Die" plays on the final episode, I cried. It was such a perfect music choice for such an emotional sequence. So well done. :')
Hey Chris, My wife & I are watching through Stranger Things now, and particularly being 80s kids, we're enjoying it a lot. Wanted to take a moment to say I really enjoyed your book, and you are basically my go-to critic (especially now that Ebert has unfortunately passed) for what I think is almost always a spot-on, fair review. I thought you'd like to know that around my work, when people have discussed movie critics, your name comes up a lot. I've been a fan of yours for a while, but I was thrilled to see a bunch of people I know also name-drop you without my having to say, "hey, have you heard of this guy?..." A lot of people see the quality in your work! So, congratulations, looking forward to book 2, and please keep it up!
011's ability to convey a dozen emotions with one word of dialogue with just her face at her age was outstanding.
I bet you all that Chris likes Chamber of Secrets more than Philosophers Stone.
?
He shared his ranking of all potter movies in a earlier video, so yeah.
+Ryan MacDonald he's currently reviewing the Harry Potter movies
Chamber of Secrets is one of the better ones for sure.
I do too
the thing I absolutely hate about this show....
WE HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL FRIGGING HALLOWEEN 2017 FOR SEASON 2 UHHGUG
Luis Garlic worth the wait
Luis Garlic and now we need to freaking wait for 2019 for season 3
Itzel Montalvo 2019??!
Yo now we have to wait until
6/XX/19
It's almost there.
REVIEW MR.ROBOT
I agree!
Honestly, after watching Stranger Things, I totally forgot about Mr. Robot.
hahahah same here, i got so hooked to stranger things that i totally forgot a new episode came out. if a show does that to me, then it must be good
Lmao stranger things has been hella better than mr robot season 2. I'm getting really pissed off tbh at season 2.
***** I've been loving Season 2.
my rating: 11/10
Rewatching this amazing work of art in 2024, I love the 80s genre of movies, I love to see you review and connect with this source material always Chris. You are my favorite movie man
I just watched season 1 and it’s freaking awesome and loved every character and the actors did a phenomenal job. I know I’m late but I just started watching season 1 yesterday and today I just finished it and now I will watch season 2.
I loved Stranger Things, couldn't stop watching it. The characters were so well realized, the setting was perfect. I loved every second of it. Oh and the soundtrack was perfect. A+
Glad you reviewed this. I tend to appreciate your assessment of quality for stuffs.
I was curious about your thoughts on the older sister ans the boyfriend characters. They bugged me at first, but they grew on me as the show went on.
Same, but I was curious on Chris thoughts on it.
Me too. I hated Steve at first but he got to me the last few episodes. And even though Johnathan did creepy stuff he also grew on me eventually.
+The King Of Hearts the fucking batflip won me over
We need more tv intros like the one for Stranger Things
Thank you for all your reviews. MY 18 yr old autistic son dreams of doing what your doing and has since he was so young. and man he never fails to deliver me great movies to watch. he looks up to u sooo much as he helps pass time for me as i recover from a terrible wreck these last years while he lovingly cares for me .... watching many and critiquing like you... or watching what you recommend. thank you for helping him grow and for all your great picks! his name is Josiah... and i know he thanks you too! we loved this show... you nailed it again. Ashli and jo. ps he is excited to find your book! congratulations!!
I think nancy and jonathan should have hooked up in the end
Maybe next season
I think so too.
Meh. If you can't get the girl after a life or death hunt & struggle with a monster like that, you won't ever get her lol.
Nancy is a fucking dumbass
Yep maybe next season but i doubt it
Sounds like you like how "kids feel" huehuehuhe
Yes cause Child Molestation and Perverts are so funny
Gresh854 You SICK fuck, it's not funny at all
+Gresh854 sure is
It's the internet dude, don't take it so seriously.
Lighten up, Gresh.
I love how this show doesn't hesitate at all. It's intense from start to finish and I fucking love it.
I love the show, it was fantastic. All the actors were perfect in their roles. Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard and Noah Schnapp (despite not being on screen as long as the other characters) were in my opinion, the standout actors. Hopefully in a new season Noah's character Will, will be featured more.
hey Chris, it's Hopper not Harper 🙈 solid review man! I finished it yesterday! it's amazing! I loved the score!
oh and, I didn't really care that it's "copying", it's an amazing show.
He said Harbour not Harper.... And he was referring to the actor, David Harbour, who played the police chief
+Alfredo Ochoa I'm pretty sure Harper is the last name of the actor who plays him
"hey Chris, you FUCKED UP! solid review though!" lol
+buildermaniac right it was harbour. My bad
Will, El, Mike and Hopper's acting were award-worthy in this.
Am confused, is it a 8 hour movie or TV Show
It's a netflix original show. So neither TV or movie.
Yes.
jaafar kassim are you dumb?
I was promised cthulhu
*Watches entire season*
Well then, I got a bit more then just cthulhu
10/10
I always agree like, 100% of the time with your reviews. It's super refreshing.
You're my most trusted reviewer man, keep it up!
i may be the only one who never got the feeling they were copying other things.
jherrenor ikr. It just felt like they were jerking off the 80s the entire show
It's Winona Ryder, not WINE-ona Ryder.
one of the best reviews, you were spot-on on everything you said
So...if it was a tightrope....were they the acrobat...or the flea?
My favorite character is the demogorgon, hopefully it shows up alot in season2 and is fully explained.
I've watched few videos of Chris and I have to say I am a fan and he is a good reviewer. You are awesome. Keep it up dude.
Can't wait to see this series!
it's gr8 m8
I hope you love it once you see it.
Make sure you have a day off or something cause you're gonna binge watch it
+Rooney lol
me too, haven't seen it yet
This show reminded me more of the goonies 😂
Jesus Cantu lol and then Sean Austin in season 2
Aili Olson you mean Sean Astin
the reviewer did say influenced by King and Spielberg.. loved goonies .. loved stranger things
Love your reviews. Much better than the others out there. Definitely gonna check this one out now.
THERE IS A REALLY cool Short film called Unfastened i just saw. it's a lot like Stranger Things and Fight Club and definitely worth checking out
"Yes! I like that. That's good. I like the way that feels. You're touching the right places."
Phrasing.
"This is like an adult performance squeezed into a little girl's body"
PHRASING!!!
Last August, this review got me to watch Stranger Things.
Thank you!
I need a season 2 of this show. It sucks that we have to wait until atleast next summer
Can Dean Koontz get some love here? Eleven is based on the character in Door to December.
I was thinking about Koontz as well.
The character of 011 could also have beeen inspired by the boy in The Eyes of Darkness, and the dimensional warp reminded me of the "sideways" dimensions from Fear Nothing.
Also the bar hopper goes to is called Hideaway. I was pretty sure that was deliberately referencing Koontz's novel of that name. Eleven is very similar to the Door to December character with the whole sensory deprivation for telepathy thing, but I'm pretty sure that was lifted straight out of the whole MKultra thing. So it could be they both drew inspiration from the same source rather than Eleven being drawn from Koontz's character.
Actually, Eleven is inspired by an anime called "Elfen Lied" (confirmed by the Duffers), where the character's story is very similar, sans the MK Ultra angle and the fact that there are others like her.
I completely agree that the Hideaway bar was a nod to Koontz though ^^
I knew there was some Elfen Lied influence in there!
+TheHitherto Actually the Silent Hill video games provided inspiration of the different dimensions.
wow this show is so constant in its quality!!! looking back is genuinly touching.
Eleven is my favorite character, I think she's the best.
I'm surprised the police chief didn't arrest the mom for shoplifting
lol
when did she do that?
Ernesto Torres he just refering about that time Winona Ryder got arrested for shoplifting
The mum didn't shop lift, she rented it.
Thanks for no spoilers, about to binge the whole season after watching this video. Thanks man.
Season 4 review please
I loved Stranger Things. A+ for sure. But I'm really skeptical about season 2. It's going to be too much like a sequel, and sequels almost always suck.
It’s weird how fast time feels like it’s going… 2016 simply does not feel that far away…
And it’s sad to look at the comments here, and the comments on any video about the other seasons.
“An adult performance squeezed into a little girls body.”
Fargo Chris? please?
YES THAT IS A GREAT SHOW
This was an absolute A+ for me!! As someone who generally dislikes TV shows, this one was riveting and had me on the edge of my seat all the way through! I feel like the references were more of an homage that didn't detract from the overall adventure
Seriously Chris, I really respect your reviews but you really failed to do a good one on the stranger things. You never really mentioned the "scary factor" on this one. Yes it borrows many aspects from E.T. but you did not accentuate the fact that this show is absolutely not for children as one may suggest and actually quite scary in some moments. I really had the feeling in some parts that this is a horror movie, this combined with the sentimental connection between the characters really and I mean really makes you connect with them.
I'm a little bit dissapointed with your review as you concentrated on the obvious but you never mentioned that this show, apart from being like a thriller, is actually a horror movie split in 8 parts.
I absolutely loved the style, the music (oh my god the music is incredible) and the actors on this one.
For me it was an absolute solid A+!!!
Main problem with this show:
THE GROUP OF KIDS DIDN'T HAVE A NAME!!!
There were moments I was rooting for them going like "GO!! ehh.... KIDS!!!"
They just needed a kickass group name and this show would've been a PITCH PERFECT 80's movies homage...
LukaANDkrusty I thought they were called the Losers, homage to Stephen Kings It
The party
I'm glad you pointed out the fine line between homage and replication. It reminded me of the controversy surrounding Tarantino and his homage/ replication.
Call me retartard but until you talked about all the similarities with E.T. with the show I didn't really notice them.
DaviloX07 _ The bike chase scene.
Story is a massive let down in this, stylistically very good and an outstanding performance from the girl who played 11. But very cliche, clunky dialogue and plot developments. Too many instances whereby people said or did things out of character or were too conveniently stupid or slow in order to aid or suspend the story development. For 8 episodes we should have been offered more plot development, feels like the producers havent really worked out how to explain it all. Alot of the characters, excluding the sheriff and Wills mother were very 1 dimensional too - the show could have explored the horror of the characters realising that the were living alongside monsters, it didnt really explore that genuine fear or emotional depth.
hear hear
I feel this so much.
So seeing a monster climb out a wall and then seeing someone's reaction to said monster, and then seeing them run outside, stop in front of a car, and break down into tears of shock doesn't count as emotional depth to such a situation?
+Angel Pygs he said excluding Will's mother. I agree with him, the kids should have been freaking out, especially at the climax when the monster was coming to kill them.
exactly ^. I know the whole show is in homage to the 80s but it could still have carried that feel and been a lot darker at the same time.
Not only were there moments paying omage to 80s Spielberg and Steven King like you mentioned, but also I got some serious Akira vibes from this show as well. Can't wait to see the next season
All of these kids are terrific actors. Especially Finn Wolfhard. That kid is talented, its hard to find a kid that young with great acting chops. I'm looking forward to seeing him in bigger things. As Robin alongside Ben Affleck's batman maybe? He looks a lot like Ezra Miller, so maybe he could play Barry Allen in the Flashpoint movie.
Well I'd gotten a New Favorite Show to watch on Netflix
And their is a dirty dancing reference and a ferris days off, it is so true everything you had to say. It's cool to see Winona in a role that has totally stretched her acting skills it's amazing how much she has grown as an actress. She is great. Everyone in it is.
Furst blah blah I'm so cool living in my mothers basements
Stfu
People stopped saying this so long ago. Honestly joking about it is way more annoying and overplayed than saying first.
What the fuck is wrong with you? Do you actually think that's funny?
+The Angry Little Alchemist
Lol I wish people stopped
You think he lives in his mothers basement ? Haha wow