Written by Liah Twumasi Danquah | 33772944

Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things did well in creating nostalgic audiovisual features that create a binge-worthy experience. As described by Mareike Jenner, binge-watching is a practice where “several episodes of a serialised programme are watched on a medium other than linear television” (2018, pp109). Season 3, episode 8’s Never Ending Story sequence is a prime example of how 1980s references enhance the show’s appeal, enticing audiences to keep watching the next season.

In this climactic scene, the characters are in a desperate race to close the gate to the Upside Down, a parallel horror world. In this moment, the characters Dustin and Suzie break out into a duet of Limahl’s 1984 hit, NeverEnding Story. This humorous and heartwarming nostalgic moment provides a contrast to the high tension drama, offering a bit of an emotional breather. Such techniques keep audiences emotionally invested and more likely to binge watch the next episodes. 

Nostalgic audio visual elements play a key role in making this scene so engaging. The playful melody of the theme song along with cuts to more serious aspects of the narrative, emphasises the humour of the moment. Visually, the show’s commitment to 1980s aesthetics, seen in character outfits, props and set design, immerses viewers in a “hyper-aestheticised nostalgia”(Grifith, 2022, pp.3). This term captures the show’s focus on visually appealing retro styles and its use of catchy music, creating a version of the past that resonates with audiences who experienced these trends firsthand. This results in Netflix’s algorithm favouring the show since viewers “look for the repetition of generic formulas, aesthetic style or tone” once they have found this season enjoyable (Jenner, 2018, pp 135).

However, even younger audiences who did not experience the 1980’s could find scenes like this compelling because it offers them an escape to a world that feels unique from today. This sense of discovery adds to the series’ immersive quality, making it binge-worthy for viewers of all ages.

References

Jenner, M. (2018) Netflix and the re-invention of television. Cham, Switzerland: Palgrave Macmillan.

Griffith, Z. (2022). Stranger Things, Nostalgia, and Aesthetics. Journal of Film and Video74(1), 3-18.  https://muse.jhu.edu/article/851919.