Come 7 p.m. CST on Dec. 31, the show that has captivated, haunted and enchanted a generation will release its final episode.
With 4.5 million households streaming season 4, making it Netflix’s third-most-watched English-language series, “Stranger Things” blends masterful storytelling with ‘80s nostalgia and hair-raising sci-fi.
The beloved series coming to an end means millions of viewers will need some similar shows and movies to fill the void. Here’s what to watch:
Shows
Eerie, Indiana (1990)
Similar to “Stranger Things”, “Eerie, Indiana” follows a teenage protagonist who uncovers supernatural mysteries in a small Indiana town. It’s more geared towards a younger audience. So, if you’re looking for a show that isn’t quite as dark, but with the same creepy vibes, look no further than “Eerie, Indiana”. To watch it, look no further than Tubi.
I Am Not Okay With This (2020)
Much like the main characters in “Stranger Things”, the protagonist Sydney explores her supernatural powers while navigating high school, family issues and discovering her sexuality. If you’re more into the story of “Stranger Things” than the scares, “I Am Not Okay With This” is a great next watch. The offbeat, quirky main characters are sure to charm any viewer. “I Am Not Okay With This” is available on Netflix.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated (2010)
In this installment of the esteemed franchise, the gang busts monsters around Crystal Cove with a slightly darker, more mature touch. Instead of the traditional “monster-of-the-week” format, there’s an overarching theme, like in “Stranger Things”. Also like “Stranger Things,” “Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated” is available on Netflix.
Films
It (2017)
“Stranger Things” actor Finn Wolfhard and “I Am Not Okay With This” actress Sophia Lillis also star in this box-office hit. “It” gives a modern revamp to the 1990 cult classic, marrying the old nostalgia with incredible new special effects. Just like in “Stranger Things”, a group of misfit kids band together to drive a mysterious evil out of their small town. This film is perfect for viewers who love horror… or Finn Wolfhard. “It” is available for streaming on HBO MAX.
Sleepaway Camp – (1983)
This hidden horror gem is a bit lesser known. “Sleepaway Camp” follows an eerily quiet teenage girl, Angela, and her cousin Ricky to the sleepaway camp where Angela’s brother was killed in an accident. It’s gorier than “Stranger Things,” but the film’s special effects and twist ending will satisfy viewers who love the show. You can stream “Sleepaway Camp” for free on Tubi.
The Goonies
This classic ’80s kids’ movie features a band of adventurous kids who stumble upon an old pirate map while planning to save their home from being demolished to make room for a country club. They follow the map in search of treasure, facing danger along the way.
“The Goonies” heavily influenced the characters of “Stranger Things,” according to Matt and Ross Duffer, the show’s creators.
Other ‘80s sci-fi titles like “Firestarter,” “Poltergeist,” “Stand By Me” and “E.T.” also served as sources of inspiration for the concept of “Stranger Things”. If you’re looking for something similar, these films are a great place to start.
Netflix’s “Fear Street” series is another modern, ‘80s-inspired horror hit, and the platform’s “The Umbrella Academy” will dazzle viewers who enjoy a dense sci-fi series.
