Stranger Things Vs. IT: Stephen King Weighs In

Mei Lin

6 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Thematic Similarities: Exploring Shared Ground

Both Stranger Things and IT expertly weave together threads of nostalgia and childhood trauma, creating a potent brew of supernatural horror.

Nostalgia and Childhood Fear

• Stranger Things masterfully evokes 1980s nostalgia, utilizing the aesthetic of the era to amplify the sense of unease and vulnerability experienced by the young protagonists. The idyllic suburban setting of Hawkins, Indiana, becomes a deceptive façade, hiding sinister secrets and monstrous threats. The trauma experienced by Eleven, Will's abduction, and the overall mystery surrounding the Upside Down all contribute to a palpable sense of childhood innocence lost.
• IT, similarly, uses the nostalgic setting of Derry, Maine, to cultivate a sense of dread. The seemingly normal town harbors a deep-seated darkness, symbolized by Pennywise the Dancing Clown. The trauma inflicted upon the Losers Club, both individually and collectively, profoundly shapes their adult lives and fuels their eventual confrontation with Pennywise. The use of childhood games and familiar locations only heightens the sense of violation and fear.
• Both narratives effectively utilize "80s nostalgia" and the concept of "childhood trauma" to anchor their supernatural elements in relatable human experiences, making the horror all the more impactful. The "Pennywise" and "Demogorgon" are powerful symbols of the terrors that lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.

The Power of the Supernatural

The supernatural elements in both Stranger Things and IT are not mere window dressing; they are the engines that drive the narrative.

• The "Upside Down" in Stranger Things is a terrifying parallel dimension, a distorted reflection of our world that spills over into Hawkins, bringing with it monstrous creatures and unsettling occurrences. The Demogorgon, the Mind Flayer, and other entities embody the pervasive threat of the unknown. The horror here leans towards science fiction-infused body horror.
• Derry, in IT, is steeped in ancient evil, embodied by Pennywise, a shapeshifting entity that preys on the children's deepest fears. The horror here is deeply psychological, focusing on the manipulation of the characters’ vulnerabilities and the exploration of existential dread. The style blends "supernatural horror" with classic "monster" tropes.
• While both utilize "supernatural horror," their approaches to the genre differ significantly. Stranger Things tends towards a more action-oriented, science-fiction approach, while IT leans into a darker, more psychological exploration of fear.

Stylistic Differences: Contrasting Approaches

Despite sharing thematic similarities, Stranger Things and IT employ significantly different stylistic approaches.

Tone and Atmosphere

• Stranger Things blends 80s nostalgia with an action-adventure tone, resulting in a captivating, slightly lighter atmosphere, even amidst the darkness. The vibrant colors, synthwave soundtrack, and playful moments between characters contribute to this lighter feel, despite the horrifying elements. The "80s aesthetic" is integral to the show's identity.
• IT, in contrast, cultivates a darker, more suspenseful atmosphere. The film uses a "psychological horror" approach, employing shadows, unsettling imagery, and a more somber color palette to create a pervasive sense of dread. The film's "visual storytelling" is starkly different from Stranger Things's brighter, more overt approach. The "atmospheric horror" created effectively amplifies the impact of Pennywise's terror.

Character Development and Arcs

The character development in both narratives also presents contrasting approaches.

• Stranger Things features a diverse ensemble cast, each character undergoing significant growth and development throughout the series. Their relationships and individual journeys are central to the narrative. The "protagonist" group forms a strong bond, showcasing powerful "character arcs."
• IT focuses more intently on the "protagonist" group’s collective journey, with less emphasis on individual character arcs. While each Loser has their own demons, the primary focus remains on their shared confrontation with Pennywise. The "antagonist" is the singular force driving the plot. The "character development" in IT is more focused on their collective growth in facing their fears.

Hypothetical Stephen King's Opinion: A Speculative Analysis

Considering Stephen King's prolific career in horror, what would he think of these two captivating works?

King's Known Preferences

Stephen King is renowned for his blend of horror, suspense, and coming-of-age themes. He frequently employs relatable characters facing extraordinary circumstances, often drawing inspiration from his own childhood experiences and the small-town settings he so often depicts. He has publicly expressed both satisfaction and frustration with adaptations of his works, emphasizing the importance of capturing the essence of his narratives. His preference for "literary horror" often blurs the lines between genres.

A Speculative Comparison

Based on King's known preferences and his body of work, it’s plausible to speculate that he would appreciate the thematic resonance between his own works and Stranger Things and IT. The emphasis on childhood trauma and the exploration of small-town darkness are elements frequently explored in his novels. He might particularly appreciate the blend of "80s nostalgia" and suspense in Stranger Things. However, he might also offer constructive criticism, perhaps suggesting a deeper exploration of character psychology in Stranger Things or a more nuanced approach to the supernatural in IT, aligning more closely with his complex exploration of "King's horror" within his own novels and "literary influences." The "It movie," in particular, might receive praise for its faithfulness to the core themes of his novel. His reaction to "Stranger Things season 4," with its more complex mythology, might depend on his feelings on expanding established narratives.

Conclusion: Stranger Things, IT, and the King's Verdict (A Speculative Take)

In conclusion, Stranger Things and IT, while sharing a common ground in their exploration of childhood fear and the supernatural, differ significantly in their stylistic approaches. Stranger Things offers a blend of 80s nostalgia and action-adventure, while IT delves into a darker, more psychological realm of horror. This speculative analysis suggests that Stephen King would likely appreciate the thematic parallels but might offer insightful critiques regarding the stylistic choices. Ultimately, the enduring appeal of both narratives lies in their ability to tap into universal fears and anxieties, making them compelling works within the larger landscape of horror fiction. What are your thoughts on Stranger Things vs. IT? Share your opinions in the comments below!