stranger things season 3 movie references

MASKODING

2 min read

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27-11-2024

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Stranger Things Season 3, released in 2019, wasn't just a thrilling adventure; it was a love letter to 80s cinema. The season is saturated with references, homages, and even direct nods to classic films of the decade, enriching the viewing experience for those familiar with the source material. Let's delve into some of the most prominent examples, analyzing their impact on the narrative and overall tone.

1. Back to the Future (1985): The season's overarching theme of summer romance and impending danger heavily echoes Back to the Future. The burgeoning relationship between Eleven and Mike mirrors Marty and Jennifer's, while the looming threat of the Mind Flayer creates a sense of urgency and impending doom similar to the time-traveling paradoxes in Back to the Future. This isn't just a visual similarity; the underlying narrative structures are strikingly parallel.

2. Jaws (1975): The season's central antagonist, the Mind Flayer, acts as a terrifying, unseen force lurking beneath the surface, much like the great white shark in Spielberg's masterpiece. The escalating tension, the growing sense of dread as the threat closes in, and the desperate attempts to stop it all mirror Jaws' suspenseful narrative perfectly. Even the town's initial reluctance to believe the danger is strikingly similar to Amity Island's initial denial.

3. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982): The scene where Eleven and Mike are in the arcade, playing video games and sharing a tender moment, directly evokes the playful innocence and magical quality of E.T. This juxtaposition of youthful joy against a backdrop of impending doom creates a powerful emotional contrast. The fleeting sense of normalcy before the inevitable conflict adds to the season's overall emotional weight.

4. The Goonies (1985): The kids' adventurous spirit and the collaborative effort to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds resonate with the classic adventure of The Goonies. The group's determination to uncover the secrets of Hawkins Lab and fight the Mind Flayer embodies the same sense of teamwork and bravery displayed by the Goonies. The kids' bond and shared experiences further strengthen this connection.

5. Gremlins (1984): While not a direct reference, the grotesque and chaotic nature of the Flayed, the Mind Flayer's human hosts, evokes the unsettling imagery and unpredictable nature of the Gremlins. The horrific transformations and the growing sense of uncontrollable chaos add a disturbing layer to the season's thrills.

Beyond the Obvious: While these are some of the most prominent examples, Season 3 is rich in smaller, more subtle references. The 80s fashion, music, and overall aesthetic are all meticulously crafted to transport the viewer back to that era, enhancing the immersive quality of the storytelling. The use of specific arcade games and popular songs of the time also contributes significantly.

Conclusion:

Stranger Things Season 3’s skillful use of 80s movie references isn’t merely fan service; it’s a crucial element of the show’s identity and storytelling. By drawing upon the emotional resonance and established tropes of these classic films, the creators build a richer, more complex, and ultimately more engaging narrative, making the season a true masterpiece of nostalgic storytelling. For those unfamiliar with these films, exploring them might add a whole new layer of appreciation for the intricate details and themes within Stranger Things. It encourages viewers to engage in a cross-media experience, enriching their understanding of both the show and the cultural landscape of the 1980s.