In the vast landscape of television, few series have captivated audiences quite like Netflix's Stranger Things. Set against a backdrop of supernatural mystery and nostalgic '80s references, the show has successfully blended childhood adventure with horror. However, beneath its thrilling surface lies a profound connection to a classic film that arguably shaped its very existence: Steven Spielberg's Jaws.
To understand how Stranger Things evolved from its original concept of Montauk into the fictional town of Hawkins, we must explore the intricate ties that bind these narratives together.
From Montauk to Hawkins
Initially, the Duffer Brothers conceived Stranger Things under the title Montauk, selecting Montauk, New York, as the original setting. This choice was fueled by both the town's coastal allure and its connections to conspiracy theories involving secret government experiments, echoing the themes of mystery and horror prevalent in the show.
"We were excited about the idea of doing something coastal. Probably our favorite movie of all time is Jaws, and Montauk is one of the bases for Amity," Ross Duffer shared with The A.V. Club.
The notion of a small town, replete with hidden secrets and supernatural occurrences, was inspired heavily by the allure of Spielberg's iconic monster tale. However, as production logistics came into play, the landscape of the story shifted. The brothers realized that the show's ambitious narrative - such as quarantining a town - would be constrained by a real-world location like Montauk. Thus, Stranger Things transformed into the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, allowing the Duffer Brothers the creative freedom to delve deeper into their narrative without the confines of an actual place. This change not only accommodated the production’s needs but also resonated with the audience, creating a unique yet familiar environment rife with suspense and intrigue.
Spielberg's Enduring Influence
While Stranger Things stands out in its own right, the ghost of Spielberg looms large over the series. Whether through character dynamics or thematic elements, Spielberg's films have exerted an undeniable influence on the Duffer Brothers' creation. Viewers can catch a playful nod to this inspiration in Will Byers' bedroom, where a poster of Jaws hangs prominently on the wall. This homage encapsulates the essence of Stranger Things: a tribute to the adventuresome spirit of '80s cinema that Spielberg epitomized.
By mirroring Jaws in unique ways, particularly in how monsters interact with the protagonists, Stranger Things employs familiar narrative tropes while infusing them with brand-new twists. Just as the infamous shark from Jaws is drawn to humans and blood, the Upside Down monsters are also lured by emotions and experiences that resonate with the characters, deepening the connection between the two narratives. The homage to Spielberg is not a mere reference; it serves as an integral part of the storytelling fabric that shapes Stranger Things as we know it.
The synergy between Stranger Things and Jaws highlights the broader conversation about influence in cinema and television. As the Duffer Brothers channeled the spirit of their favorite movies, they crafted a tale that not only pays tribute to its predecessors but also innovates within the genre. The blend of retro nostalgia with raw emotion and supernatural elements appeals to a wide audience, capturing the hearts of both old fans of Spielberg and new generations discovering these influences for the first time.
Without the legacy of Jaws, the haunting streets of Hawkins might not exist, nor would the rich tapestry of nostalgia that characterizes Stranger Things. In its intricate dance with cinematic history, the series stands as a testament to how the past informs the present, creating a narrative that is simultaneously thrilling and deeply rooted in film heritage.
