In-Depth Study: Mr Robot, House of Cards, Homeland, Stranger Things (Choose One)

Context Specificity of Stranger Things

Stranger Things is set in the 1980s in the small American town of Hawkins, Indiana, offering a specific socio-historical setting.
Draws heavily on nostalgia and cultural references from that era, including E.T., The Goonies, and Stephen King novels.
The show addresses political tensions during the Cold War era, including paranoia and distrust of the government.
Stranger Things was released directly onto the streaming platform Netflix, altering traditional models of television distribution and consumption.

Generic Hybridity in Stranger Things

Features elements of various genres such as science fiction, horror, and coming-of-age drama, combining thematic depth with suspense and entertainment.
Straddles the line between adult and child-centred narratives, appealing to a wide demographic.

Representation in Stranger Things

Characters are portrayed with depth and complexity. This is seen particularly in the growth of Eleven, a young female character with telekinetic powers.
Stranger Things challenges stereotypical representations in its mix of genres. For example, female characters show strength and agency, and several complex male characters exhibit sensitivity and fear.

Narrative Structure and Stylistic Elements

The ensemble narrative structure, where multiple storylines run in parallel, allows for development of a broad range of characters and story arcs.
Stranger Things employs a mix of ‘open’ (ongoing) and ‘closed’ (resolved within an episode) narratives.
The show exhibits signature stylistic elements that blend homage to ’80s pop culture with contemporary high-quality production value. For example, the stylised title sequence, retro-inspired soundtrack, and detailed period set design.

Online Media and Audience Reception

Netflix’s model of ‘binge-watching’ has influenced the narrative structure and pace of Stranger Things, with cliffhangers and revelations designed for immediate continuation.
The show has stimulated an extensive online fandom and audience engagement, offering scope to study contemporary audience theory and fan practices.

Themes and Ideologies

Behind the thrilling and supernatural occurrences, Stranger Things also explores deeper themes including friendship, bravery, and the pains of growing up.
The series reinforces and challenges various ideologies, including familial norms, gender roles, authority structures, and the value of community.