Welcome to a thrilling journey through the Upside Down of trivia and fascinating facts about the iconic series “Stranger Things.” As you dive into this compilation of these mind-bending facts, prepare to be amazed by the untold stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and incredible insights that shaped this cult phenomenon.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the world of Hawkins, Indiana, these tidbits promise to deepen your appreciation for the series. From casting curiosities to hidden references, each fact is a piece of the puzzle that makes “Stranger Things” a masterpiece of modern storytelling. So, grab your walkie-talkie, and let’s embark on this extraordinary exploration of the unknown!

Stranger Things Facts

We are about to start our journey into the fascinating world of this show. Keep in mind that I created a quiz at the end of this article to test your knowledge. If you want to prove that you are a true fan, read carefully, and don’t disappoint me.

1. Stranger Things was originally titled “Montauk” and was set in Long Island, not Hawkins, Indiana.
2. The show is heavily inspired by 1980s pop culture, paying homage to the works of Steven Spielberg, John Carpenter, and Stephen King.
3. The series’ iconic logo is inspired by vintage Stephen King novel covers.
4. The Duffer Brothers, creators of the show, faced numerous rejections before Netflix picked up the series.
5. Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven, originally auditioned with a shaved head, drawing comparisons to Sigourney Weaver in “Alien.”
6. The character of Steve Harrington was not meant to be a main character, but Joe Keery’s performance changed the creators’ minds.
7. Hawkins, Indiana, is a fictional town, with most of the series being filmed in and around Atlanta, Georgia.
8. The Upside Down, the parallel dimension in the series, was inspired by the video game “Silent Hill.”
9. Winona Ryder, who plays Joyce Byers, was a major star in the ’80s and ’90s, bringing authenticity to the series’ 1980s setting.
10. The show’s score is composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, who were relatively unknown before “Stranger Things.”
11. The Demogorgon, the show’s first main monster, is named after a creature from “Dungeons & Dragons.”
12. Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin, actually has cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition incorporated into his character.
13. Eleven’s nosebleeds when using her powers are a common trope in fiction to signify psychic strain.

14. The series was originally intended to be a limited series with only one season.
15. David Harbour (Chief Hopper) used the backstory of his own mental health struggles to shape his character.
16. The Duffer Brothers used real ’80s commercials, toys, and technology to make the show feel authentic.
17. Season 3 of “Stranger Things” set a Netflix record with over 40 million households watching it in its first four days.
18. The character of Robin, played by Maya Hawke in Season 3, was originally intended to be Steve’s love interest.
19. The series helped bring back New Coke, a failed 1980s Coca-Cola product, as a promotional stunt.
20. The Mind Flayer, introduced in Season 2, is another reference to “Dungeons & Dragons.”
21. “Stranger Things” has been praised for its portrayal of female characters, particularly Eleven and Max.
22. Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, didn’t know his character’s fate until after he was cast.
23. The show has been nominated for numerous awards, including Emmys, Golden Globes, and a Grammy.
24. Several characters in the series are named after famous directors and writers, like Lucas (George Lucas) and Dustin (Dustin Hoffman).
25. The Duffer Brothers created a 30-page document detailing the Upside Down’s mythology for the show.
26. Season 2’s “The Lost Sister” episode was initially controversial but later appreciated for its character development.
27. Sean Astin, who played Bob in Season 2, was a nod to his role in “The Goonies,” a classic ’80s film.
28. Real-life conspiracy theories, like MKUltra, influenced the show’s government experimentation plotlines.

29. The Halloween episode in Season 2 lines up almost perfectly with the actual dates of Halloween in 1984.
30. Each episode reportedly cost around $8 million to produce for the third season.
31. The character of Max was introduced to challenge the show’s dynamics and bring in a new perspective.
32. Many of the series’ props and costumes are authentic ’80s items, sourced from various places.
33. The arcade games featured in the show are actual games from the 1980s.
34. Season 3’s Starcourt Mall was a fully renovated section of a real, mostly abandoned mall in Georgia.
35. The series has significantly boosted the sales of Eggo waffles, a favorite of Eleven’s.
36. The use of “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash became a significant plot element and character connection.
37. Brenner’s character, played by Matthew Modine, was initially much more sinister in the script.
38. Finn Wolfhard, who plays Mike, filmed his audition tape from his bed because he was sick.

39. The show includes several hidden clues and Easter eggs that foreshadow future events.
40. Cary Elwes, famous for his role in “The Princess Bride,” joined the cast in Season 3 as Mayor Kline.
41. The show’s creators admitted that they have a “30-page document” on what the Upside Down is.
42. Paul Reiser’s character in Season 2 is a nod to his role in “Aliens,” another ’80s classic.
43. Several ’80s movie references are scattered throughout the show, like “Ghostbusters” and “E.T.”
44. The series has led to a resurgence in the popularity of Dungeons & Dragons among younger audiences.
45. Eleven’s look in Season 1 was inspired by E.T. and other ’80s icons.
46. Shawn Levy, one of the show’s directors, is known for his work on family-friendly films like “Night at the Museum.”
47. The show’s filming locations have become tourist attractions for fans.
48. The character of Billy, introduced in Season 2, was designed to embody typical ’80s movie bullies.
49. Netflix reported that “Stranger Things” was the most popular digital original series in several countries.
50. The phrase “Friends don’t lie,” frequently used by Eleven, has become a popular quote and embodies the theme of friendship central to Stranger Things.

Stranger Things Myths

As we leave all these interesting facts behind, we now move to the myths section. We are going to uncover the actual truth behind some common myths. You can always add yours in the comments so I can add it to the list.

• The Upside Down is a Real Dimension
  The Upside Down, featured in “Stranger Things,” is a fictional creation. It’s a dark and eerie mirror of our world, inspired by scientific theories and horror fiction, but it doesn’t exist in reality.
• Telekinetic Powers Like Eleven’s are Possible
  While telekinesis is a popular theme in science fiction, there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of such powers. Eleven’s abilities are purely imaginative and serve to enhance the show’s fantastical elements.
• The Show is Based on True Events
  It is not based on true events. It’s a blend of 1980s nostalgia, supernatural elements, and government conspiracy theories, all woven together for entertainment.
• Hawkins, Indiana, is a Real Town
  Hawkins is a fictional town created for the series. The setting was inspired by small-town America, but Hawkins itself doesn’t exist on any map.
• The Government Conducts Experiments Like Those in the Series
  While governments have conducted various classified experiments throughout history, there’s no evidence of anything like the experiments in “Stranger Things.” The show’s portrayal of government actions is exaggerated for dramatic effect.

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Stranger Things Quotes

Let’s continue our trip into the enigmatic world of this series. Below is a list of my favorite quotes about the show.

Ross Duffer, another co-creator of “Stranger Things,” explains how the series pays homage to the iconic films and culture of the 1980s.

Winona Ryder, who plays Joyce Byers in the series, expresses her continual amazement and enthusiasm for the evolving storylines of “Stranger Things.”

Millie Bobby Brown, portraying Eleven in the show, shares her feelings of awe and wonder while being part of the “Stranger Things” universe.

David Harbour, known for his role as Chief Jim Hopper, compliments the Duffer Brothers for innovatively blending nostalgia and horror in “Stranger Things.

Finn Wolfhard, playing Mike Wheeler, encapsulates the essence of “Stranger Things” as a nostalgic journey with an element of horror.

Stranger Things FAQ

This FAQ section marks the end of our journey, just before the quiz. Read carefully, as it’s the last piece of information you will get.

• Where is the Stranger Things Experience?
  The “Stranger Things Experience” is a traveling interactive exhibition based on the show. It has been hosted in multiple cities worldwide. To find the current location, it’s best to check the official website or social media channels for the latest updates.
• Which Stranger Things Season is the Best?
  This is subjective and varies from fan to fan. Some prefer the originality and suspense of Season 1, while others enjoy the character development and expanding storyline of later seasons. Online forums and fan communities often have lively discussions about this!
• Why is Stranger Things the Best Show?
  Many fans argue that it excels due to its blend of 80s nostalgia, well-developed characters, compelling storytelling, and a perfect mix of horror, sci-fi, and drama. Its ability to appeal to a wide range of audiences also contributes to its popularity.
• How Have the Characters Grown Throughout the Series?
  Over the seasons, the characters have shown significant growth. For example, Eleven transitions from a mysterious test subject to a more confident individual exploring her identity. The other kids also evolve, dealing with the challenges of adolescence alongside supernatural threats.
• What are the Main Themes in Stranger Things?
  “Stranger Things” explores various themes, including friendship, the battle between good and evil, and the trials of growing up. The show also delves into government conspiracy theories and the power of teamwork to overcome adversity.

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Stranger Things Quiz

Welcome to the “Stranger Things” quiz! If you don’t get any questions right, you might just find a Demogorgon as your new roommate!

Conclusion

As we close the chapter on this fascinating journey through the ‘Upside Down‘ of ‘Stranger Things‘, it’s hard not to feel a mix of awe and nostalgia. This series, a masterful blend of 80s nostalgia, supernatural elements, and relatable characters, has not only entertained but also connected with audiences of all ages.

It reminds us of the adventures we dreamed of as kids and the friendships that felt unbreakable. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to transcend the ordinary. How did ‘Stranger Things’ reconnect you with your own childhood memories? Let me know in the comments.