With the conclusion of Part I of Stranger Things Season 5, many viewers are eagerly anticipating the release of Part II on December 25, 2023. In the meantime, several captivating television series can provide similar thrills and dark fantasy elements. Here are some recommendations that echo the unique blend of nostalgia, mystery, and supernatural intrigue that has made Stranger Things a cultural phenomenon.
Explore the Intrigue of Dark
One of the most frequently mentioned series in discussions about shows like Stranger Things is the German thriller Dark. This show ran for three seasons and is available on Netflix. The story kicks off with the mysterious disappearance of two children in the fictional town of Winden, Germany. As the investigation unfolds, it reveals hidden secrets among the town’s families and introduces a time-traveling wormhole that connects the present to the years 1986 and 1953.
While Dark shares a thematic connection with Stranger Things through its sci-fi elements and partial 1980s setting, it is notably darker and intended for a more mature audience. If you appreciated the depth and complexity of Stranger Things, Dark is an excellent next step.
Unearth the Mystery of Twin Peaks
No exploration of dark fantasy television would be complete without mentioning Twin Peaks, created by the renowned filmmaker David Lynch. Premiering in 1990, this iconic series opens with the discovery of homecoming queen Laura Palmer‘s body. As FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper, portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan, investigates her murder, the narrative unfolds into a surreal blend of murder mystery, supernatural lore, and small-town drama.
Similar to Stranger Things, Twin Peaks thrives on the juxtaposition of the ordinary and the bizarre. While Hawkins offers a Spielbergian flavor, Lynch’s world delves deep into the absurd and campy, making it a fascinating watch for those who enjoy the unusual.
Delve into the Unique Universe of The OA
Another series that garnered a passionate following, yet was canceled after just two seasons, is The OA. The narrative begins with Prairie Johnson, a blind woman who returns home after being missing for seven years, now inexplicably sighted. The series explores her mysterious past, suggesting she was held captive and had undergone profound experiences involving dimensional travel and consciousness.
As Prairie reveals her astonishing story to a group of teenagers and a teacher, the series transitions from a kidnapping mystery to a profound exploration of life, death, and the metaphysical. The show’s ambitious narrative structure and enigmatic themes make it a compelling choice for fans of Stranger Things.
Enjoy a Lighter Take with The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
For those looking for a blend of supernatural elements with a more lighthearted tone, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina offers an engaging alternative. This series, produced by the same team behind Riverdale, follows half-witch, half-mortal Sabrina Spellman, navigating teenage life while mastering her magical abilities.
With its vintage aesthetics and a storyline rich in dark forces, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina presents a coming-of-age tale filled with challenges, demons, and other dimensions. Although it leans more towards Young Adult themes compared to Stranger Things, it shares the core element of teens grappling with extraordinary circumstances.
Experience the Thrills of Yellowjackets
While Yellowjackets may not embody the supernatural elements of Stranger Things, it offers a gripping psychological thriller experience. The series follows a high school girls’ soccer team whose plane crashes in the Canadian wilderness, leading to a harrowing survival narrative. Structured in dual timelines, the story explores the immediate fight for survival in 1996 and the complex lives of the survivors twenty-five years later.
Although this series diverges from the fantastical elements found in Stranger Things, it still captivates audiences with its intense character development and the dark secrets that unfold as the story progresses.
Finding Your Next Favorite Series
In compiling this list, the aim was to highlight series that embody the essence of Stranger Things by intertwining dark fantasy, supernatural mystery, and a sense of nostalgia. Each of these shows features ordinary characters whose lives are disrupted by extraordinary forces, offering viewers a thrilling escape into worlds filled with mystery and adventure. Whether you choose to dive into the complex time loops of Dark or the psychological depths of Yellowjackets, these selections promise captivating stories that will keep you entertained until the next chapter of Stranger Things unfolds.
