If You Loved ‘Stranger Things,’ You’ll Also Enjoy These Shows on Netflix
Netflix has become a titan of streaming, and with that power comes a vast library of shows to explore. But with so much choice, finding your next binge-worthy series can feel overwhelming. If you’re anything like the millions captivated by the nostalgic charm, supernatural mysteries, and compelling characters of ‘Stranger Things,’ you’re in luck. Netflix boasts a treasure trove of shows that capture similar elements – from thrilling sci-fi adventures to heartwarming tales of friendship and self-discovery. Let’s dive into some excellent alternatives that will keep you glued to your screen.
‘The Umbrella Academy’: Dysfunctional Heroes Save the World
‘The Umbrella Academy’ offers a unique blend of superhero action and dysfunctional family drama. Seven adopted siblings with extraordinary powers are reunited after the death of their enigmatic father. As they grapple with their complicated relationships and individual demons, they must work together to prevent an impending apocalypse. The show features a captivating storyline, eccentric characters, and a killer soundtrack, making it a highly entertaining watch. Like ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘The Umbrella Academy’ expertly weaves together suspense, humor, and emotional depth, making it a perfect pick for fans seeking a series with a similar balance.
‘Dark’: A Mind-Bending Time Travel Mystery
For those who appreciate the intricate plotting and mysterious atmosphere of ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘Dark’ is an absolute must-watch. This German series delves into the interconnected lives of four families in a small town, where the disappearance of two children unravels a complex web of time travel secrets spanning generations. ‘Dark’ is known for its intricate timelines, philosophical themes, and chilling suspense. While it can be a bit challenging to follow at times, the rewarding payoff and thought-provoking narrative make it a truly exceptional viewing experience. Be prepared to take notes and rewind frequently to fully grasp the complexities of this time-bending masterpiece.
‘Locke & Key’: Magic, Mystery, and Family Bonds
‘Locke & Key’ follows the Locke siblings as they move into their ancestral home, Keyhouse, after the tragic death of their father. They soon discover magical keys hidden throughout the house, each granting unique and powerful abilities. However, a demonic entity is also searching for the keys, leading to a thrilling battle between good and evil. This series offers a blend of fantasy, mystery, and family drama, making it a great choice for viewers who enjoy the supernatural elements and strong character relationships in ‘Stranger Things.’ The youthful cast and fantastical elements provide a slightly lighter tone, while still maintaining a sense of suspense and intrigue.
‘I Am Not Okay With This’: Teen Angst and Unexpected Powers
If you’re drawn to the coming-of-age aspect of ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘I Am Not Okay With This’ is definitely worth checking out. This dark comedy series centers around Sydney, a teenage girl navigating the complexities of high school, family drama, and her burgeoning sexuality. To make matters more complicated, she also discovers that she possesses telekinetic powers. ‘I Am Not Okay With This’ perfectly captures the awkwardness and vulnerability of adolescence, while adding a supernatural twist. It’s a relatable and engaging series that explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the challenges of growing up.
‘The Order’: Secret Societies and Supernatural Warfare
For those who enjoy the supernatural battles and hidden worlds in ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘The Order’ offers a compelling alternative. This series follows a college freshman, Jack Morton, who joins a secret society that teaches magic. As he delves deeper into the world of magical orders and werewolves, he uncovers dark secrets and finds himself caught in a war between different factions. ‘The Order’ is filled with action, suspense, and supernatural intrigue, making it a thrilling and entertaining watch for fans of the genre. While it might not have the same nostalgic feel as ‘Stranger Things,’ it delivers plenty of supernatural excitement.
‘The Society’: A Town Vanishes, Leaving Teens to Govern Themselves
‘The Society’ presents a unique and thought-provoking premise: a group of teenagers mysteriously find themselves in a replica of their affluent town, with all the adults gone. They must learn to govern themselves, establish rules, and figure out what happened to their parents and the rest of the town’s population. As they struggle to survive and maintain order, factions emerge, and tensions rise. ‘The Society’ explores themes of social structures, power dynamics, and the challenges of building a community from scratch. While it lacks the supernatural elements of ‘Stranger Things,’ it shares a similar focus on a group of young people facing extraordinary circumstances and relying on each other to survive.
‘Archive 81’: Unraveling a Dark Conspiracy Through Vintage Tapes
If you were captivated by the eerie mysteries and unsettling atmosphere of ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘Archive 81’ offers a similar sense of dread and intrigue. This horror series follows an archivist who is hired to restore a collection of damaged videotapes from 1994. As he delves deeper into the tapes, he uncovers a terrifying conspiracy involving a demonic cult and a mysterious apartment building. ‘Archive 81’ is a slow-burn thriller that builds suspense through its unsettling visuals and haunting sound design. It’s a perfect choice for viewers who enjoy a good scare and appreciate a well-crafted mystery.
‘Shadow and Bone’: A Dark Fantasy World Filled With Magic and Danger
Fans of the fantasy elements intertwined with action and adventure in ‘Stranger Things’ will likely enjoy ‘Shadow and Bone.’ Based on Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse novels, this series transports viewers to a war-torn world where a young soldier discovers she has extraordinary powers that could unite the country. She is thrust into a world of magic, intrigue, and dangerous enemies as she learns to control her abilities and navigate the treacherous political landscape. ‘Shadow and Bone’ features a rich world-building, compelling characters, and thrilling battles, making it a captivating watch for fantasy enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the magic of ‘Stranger Things’ lies in its ability to blend multiple genres – sci-fi, horror, coming-of-age drama – into a cohesive and compelling narrative. While no show can perfectly replicate that formula, the series listed above offer various elements that capture similar themes, tones, and thrills. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to embark on your next Netflix binge. Happy watching!