Super 8 is packed to the brim with noting but admiration for the late 70’s and 80’s. The mood of this film fits right into the feeling Stranger Things has cultivated, just like a puzzle piece.

Many minor references to E.T. The Extra Terrestrial are weaved into Stranger Things, most notably Mike’s hiding of Eleven, and the gang’s use of their bikes.

‘Chapter Four: The Body’ is a nod to ‘Stand By Me’, the film adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, ‘The Body’. The same episode also features Lucas, Dustin, Mike, and Eleven relying on their compasses and the town railroad tracks, just like the boys of the ever iconic ‘Stand By Me’.

Steven Spielberg’s work is a major influence on Stranger Things .Both Close Encounters and Stranger Things feature the use of lights as communication.

Twin Peaks was a supernatural mystery TV show that aired in the 90’s. Although cancelled after two seasons, the shows extremely dedicated fan base demanded more and after over 10 years, season three is currently being filmed, and will air in 2017. The last scene of season one of Stranger Things was directly inspired by the shocking last scene of the cult classic Twin Peaks, completely available on Netflix.

Millie Bobby Brown’s character, Eleven, is inspired by Drew Barrymore’s Charlie in Stephen King’s Firestarter.

John Carpenter’s work is also highly praised in the world of Stranger Things. This movie’s poster is even in Mike’s basement! The 2011 remake staring Mary Elizabeth Winstead (10 Cloverfeild Lane, Scott Pilgrim vs the World) is also a killer film.

A complete cultural phenomenon, The Twilight Zone first aired in 1959 and has been adored ever since. Featuring mind bending plot lines and sensational ideas, the original Twilight Zone has inspired multiple television and film spin offs.

Nancy is an homage to Nancy, the iconic final girl of A Nightmare on Elm Street. Nancy and Jonathan’s traps for the Demogorgan are reminiscent of the original Nancy’s final showdown with the sadistic Freddy Krueger.