The American Television show Stranger Things is a Netflix original science fiction horror series created by Matt and Ross Duffer, with its very first season being launched in July 2016. The show first hit a major spike in popularity after the first season concluded and before the release of the second season. This slope to popularity eventually led to becoming one of Netflix’s most iconic and well recognized shows.

So, the question is: What’s the big deal? Why do so many people, young teens and adults alike, find this series so appealing?

Sophomore Nazaneen Ahmadi commented on this when questioned, “I like horror stuff…and the characters.” She said. “It’s interesting, people like that stuff.” Her response reflects a common opinion among fans: the show blends suspense, drama, and well-written character development.

Another Sophomore, Leahna Burks believes the appeal comes from familiarity, “I think it’s nostalgic for older people, and it’s relatable for teens.” She said.

The series is widely recognized for its classic 80’s vibes, and revolves around a group of young friends set in the 1980’s who encounter supernatural forces and personal challenges that they overcome. This mix of creepy vibes, romance, and teen drama creates an attraction to horror fanatics and coming of age fans.

Creating a series that can speak for both older and new generations isn’t an easy task. Most teen shows and films alike tend to exaggerate the true teenage experience. Stranger things finds a perfect balance between maturity, comedy, and representation that isn’t overwhelming or unrealistic.

Characters like Will Byers and Robin Buckley speak for those who face repression of their identity. Meanwhile, the character Lucas Sinclair’s experiences gives insight to racism that existed in the 80’s that still reflects today, even if lessened. These factors, in addition to other characters that people can relate to, show that this series includes representation that reaches across generations.

Ultimately, whether or not you consider the show overrated depends on your personal opinions. However, the depiction of well written characters that people can relate to, nostalgia, and its blend of suspense and romance, makes its appeal hard to deny.