Anyone an Eerie, Indiana fan? It's more of a children's show, but it seems to be groundbreaking for it's time, introducing storytelling & worldbuilding to younger kids. I see a pitch of that show in this, but only with the subtleties of the strange within a seemingly normal town. stevp19Bitchin: Yes, I watched it when it first aired, either during or just before the golden age of the Fox Kids afterschool shows(Goosebumps, New Addams Family, Beetleborgs, etc). In the only episode I can remember, the strangeness was used to satirize pop culture and suburban life. So it was like a spooky kids version of Suburgatory. The satire sets it apart from Stranger Things, but the more I think about it, the more they do seem alike.
It was short-lived and somewhat obscure, so I'm surprised to see the show mentioned on this subreddit. I wonder if the other ten people who watched that show are also on here...
er1127: The best things are short...
MyNameIsNotRyn: I remember this show!
er1127: I'm 17, but I figured I watch it. I liked it, but of course it's done in a way to directly make each episode short and snappy for younger kids. Still compelling at any age tho. The main kid is easy to like, along with his friend.
JMAN0723: Watched it back in the day. Joe Dante. Also tim hunter who directed Rivers Edge directed several episodes
er1127: Yes, did you see Explorers with Phoenix, Hawke, & Jason Presson? Pretty good film, very similar in tone to ST. I read that they had to quickly get the film done, which is why the 3rd act dipped in quality. The premise is really good at heart.
JMAN0723: Saw it but wasnt a fan of it. Similar flaws i see in ST Season 2
er1127: I liked it, thought the last parts were a huge let down
er1127: U can argue that the troubled kid in Explorers has the same problem in character development as Max & Billy. They tease issues, but don't show you anything. Over time, they lose suspense, and valuable plot progression.
JMAN0723: My favorite 80s teen movies were Stand by me,rivers edge,and heathers. Much darker but more realistic
er1127: Stand By Me is my all-time favorite. The novella is really good too. I like Running on Empty (which Phoenix is in), a lot, It (2017), the original A Nightmare on Elm Street, Jaws, Super Dark Times, The Nice Guys, The Spectacular Now, Kids, and Superbad, to state a few.
er1127: The Spectacular Now looks cliche, but stirs from it... a sleeper.. future cult classic