The Creators of Stranger Things: A Deep Dive into the Mind of the Duffer Brothers

In a recent interview with Variety, the twins behind the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things," Matt and Ross Duffer, sat down to discuss their vision for the show's fifth and final season. The conversation provides a unique insight into the minds of the creators, revealing the inspirations, challenges, and emotional investments that have driven the series from its humble beginnings to global phenomenon.

The Early Days

To understand the Duffer brothers' approach to storytelling, it is essential to delve into their early days as writers and filmmakers. Born in 1984 in Atlanta, Georgia, Matt and Ross grew up with a passion for movies and television. They began making short films together, using borrowed equipment from family friends, which eventually led to their first feature film, "Hide and Seek," released in 2013.

The brothers' early work was influenced by the sci-fi and horror classics of their childhood, such as Stephen King's novels and the works of John Carpenter. This eclectic mix of genres and styles would later become a hallmark of "Stranger Things."

Stranger Things: The Origins

In 2015, the Duffer brothers landed an opportunity to write for the popular Netflix series "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt." However, they soon realized that their true passion lay in creating a show that combined their love of sci-fi and horror with their nostalgia for the 1980s.

The brothers spent months developing the concept for "Stranger Things," drawing inspiration from classic '80s films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Goonies, and Stephen King's IT. They also drew on their own experiences growing up in a small town in North Carolina, where they encountered real-life mysteries and supernatural occurrences.

Season 1: A Love Letter to the '80s

The first season of "Stranger Things" premiered in July 2016 to widespread critical acclaim. The show's nostalgic value was immediate, with its depiction of a small town in Indiana overrun by supernatural forces evoking memories of classic horror movies and TV shows.

The Duffer brothers' attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, from the production design to the music and sound effects. They spent months researching the era, consulting with experts and scouring vintage stores for props and costumes.

The Evolution of Eleven

One of the most iconic characters in "Stranger Things" is El, or Eleven, a young girl with psychokinetic abilities and a traumatic past. The character was inspired by a combination of factors, including the works of Stephen King and the movie E.T.

Eleven's story arc was a major focus of Season 1, as she struggled to control her powers and find acceptance in a world that feared her. The Duffer brothers' portrayal of Eleven's emotional journey resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing the character's status as a pop culture icon.

Seasons 2-4: Expanding the Universe

The subsequent seasons of "Stranger Things" expanded the show's universe, introducing new characters and plotlines while deepening the mythology of Hawkins, Indiana.

Season 2 saw the introduction of the Mind Flayer, a powerful supernatural entity that threatened to destroy the town. The season also explored the origins of Eleven's powers, revealing a dark secret about her past that had been hidden from viewers.

Season 3 delved into the world of politics and social change, as the characters navigated the complexities of adulthood in the face of an existential threat. The season's nostalgic value was again evident, with its depiction of the summer of 1985.

The Final Season: A Love Letter to the Duffer Brothers' Childhood

The fifth and final season of "Stranger Things" is a love letter to the brothers' childhood, as they explore themes of nostalgia, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

In an interview with Variety, Matt and Ross Duffer discussed their approach to wrapping up the series. They wanted to create a sense of closure for both the characters and the audience, while also leaving room for interpretation and speculation about the future of Hawkins.

"We wanted to make sure that we gave everyone a satisfying conclusion," Matt explained. "But at the same time, we didn't want to tie everything up with a bow. We wanted to leave some threads loose, so that people could continue to speculate and imagine what might happen next."

The Legacy of Stranger Things

"Stranger Things" has left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction. The show's nostalgic value has also been felt in its impact on the music industry, with artists like Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish citing "Stranger Things" as a source of inspiration.

The Duffer brothers' influence extends beyond entertainment, too, as they have used their platform to promote social change and advocate for marginalized communities. In 2020, Matt and Ross Duffer became the first openly LGBTQ+ siblings in the entertainment industry to be featured on the cover of Entertainment Weekly.

Conclusion

As the final season of "Stranger Things" comes to a close, it is clear that the Duffer brothers' love letter to their childhood has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The show's nostalgic value has been felt across generations, as audiences worldwide have fallen in love with its characters, storylines, and themes.

As for what's next for Matt and Ross Duffer? While they have not yet announced any new projects, the brothers have hinted at exploring other creative endeavors, including film and television productions.

In an interview with Variety, Ross Duffer mentioned that the duo is "always looking for new ways to tell stories" and is "excited about the possibilities of the future." With their passion for storytelling and their commitment to representation, it's clear that Matt and Ross Duffer will continue to make a lasting impact on popular culture.