Comparing Stranger Things And IT: Stephen King's Perspective

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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Shared Thematic Elements: Childhood Trauma and the Power of Friendship

At their core, both Stranger Things and IT center on groups of children battling terrifying forces that threaten their innocence and sanity. The narratives powerfully explore the impact of childhood trauma, a recurring theme in Stephen King's work.

• Examples of Trauma:
  • Stranger Things: Eleven's brutal past in the Hawkins National Laboratory, Will's terrifying abduction and subsequent experiences in the Upside Down, Mike's anxieties about his sister, and the general unease and fear permeating the town.
  • IT: Georgie Denbrough's tragic death, the various forms of abuse and bullying faced by the Loser's Club members, and the pervasive sense of dread and fear instilled by Pennywise.

The shared element of childhood fears is a powerful driver of the plot. Both stories emphasize the importance of friendship and camaraderie in overcoming adversity.

• The Power of Friendship:
  • In Stranger Things, the group dynamic is essential; each member possesses unique skills and contributes to the survival of the others. Mike's leadership, Eleven's powers, Dustin's ingenuity, Lucas's practicality – these combine to face the horrors of the Upside Down.
  • Similarly, in IT, the Loser's Club's bond is their ultimate weapon against Pennywise. Their shared experiences and mutual support enable them to confront their deepest fears and ultimately defeat the monstrous entity. This underscores the “coming-of-age” element interwoven within both narratives. Overcoming adversity together, through teamwork and friendship, forms a powerful motif.

Contrasting Approaches to Horror: Supernatural vs. Cosmic Horror

While both narratives deal with horror, their approaches differ significantly. Stranger Things leans heavily on science fiction horror, incorporating government conspiracies, interdimensional portals, and supernatural creatures like the Demogorgon. The tone is a thrilling blend of horror and adventure.

IT, on the other hand, delves into cosmic horror, drawing heavily from Lovecraftian influences. Pennywise embodies existential dread, a malevolent force tapping into the deepest fears of its victims. This results in a darker, more psychologically unsettling atmosphere than Stranger Things.

• Contrasting Tones:
  • Stranger Things often incorporates elements of mystery and adventure, balancing intense scares with moments of levity and friendship.
  • IT cultivates a sustained sense of dread and paranoia, emphasizing the psychological impact of fear and the vulnerability of childhood.

These differences reflect King's broader body of work and his evolution as a writer, showcasing his versatility within the horror genre – from supernatural scares to the unsettling realm of cosmic horror. The exploration of King's writing style, evolving from more supernatural horror to encompassing elements of cosmic and psychological horror, is key to understanding these differences.

The Power of Nostalgia and 80s Culture

Both Stranger Things and the setting of IT heavily utilize 1980s nostalgia as a crucial narrative element. This nostalgic backdrop isn't merely aesthetic; it contributes significantly to the overall atmosphere and themes.

• 80s Pop Culture References:
  • Stranger Things is saturated with 80s pop culture references—from the soundtrack to the fashion to the iconic video games.
  • IT, while set in the 1980s, subtly weaves in elements of the era's culture, creating a specific and haunting atmosphere.

This use of "80s nostalgia" and retro horror elements helps create a strong sense of place and time, enhancing the overall storytelling and engaging audiences with a familiar yet unsettling atmosphere. The effective use of "1980s setting" and "pop culture references" connects with viewers on a personal level.

Stephen King's Influence on Stranger Things: Direct and Indirect References

The influence of Stephen King on Stranger Things is undeniable, both direct and indirect. While not a direct adaptation, Stranger Things borrows heavily from King's style and thematic concerns.

• Potential Parallels:
  • The small-town setting reminiscent of many King novels.
  • The presence of a malevolent, otherworldly force that preys on children's fears.
  • The exploration of government conspiracies and hidden agendas.

Stranger Things pays homage to King's legacy while forging its own unique identity. The show's creators clearly draw inspiration from King's vast oeuvre, utilizing his stylistic elements and thematic explorations while crafting an original narrative. The interplay between "Stephen King influence," "Stranger Things inspiration," and "King's legacy" is a compelling aspect of the show's success. The "horror homage" is evident throughout.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Horror and Friendship

Both Stranger Things and IT resonate deeply with audiences due to their compelling blend of horror, friendship, and nostalgia. While their approaches to horror differ—Stranger Things embracing science fiction and supernatural elements, and IT delving into cosmic and psychological horror—both narratives share a common thread: the power of friendship in overcoming childhood trauma and confronting terrifying forces. Stephen King's influence, both directly and indirectly, is undeniable, shaping the genre and significantly impacting the creation of Stranger Things.

We encourage you to share your thoughts on this "Stranger Things vs. IT" comparison in the comments below! Revisit Stephen King's IT or watch Stranger Things again, paying close attention to the thematic similarities and stylistic choices. Let's continue the discussion and explore the enduring appeal of these two horror masterpieces!