Tales from '85: First Details of the "Stranger Things" Animated Series Revealed

The "Stranger Things" universe keeps growing: two years after announcing an animated spin-off, Netflix has now officially announced the title of the new series. It will be called "Stranger Things: Tales from '85". Here are some first details!

As the industry magazine "What's on Netflix" reports, the spin-off is set to be a nostalgic return to the mysterious world of Hawkins – this time in the animated style of a classic Saturday morning cartoon. Back in April 2023, Netflix announced that a new animated adventure based on the successful series was in the works. At the time, the creators of the original series, Matt and Ross Duffer, spoke passionately about their idea:

"We've always dreamed of an animated Stranger Things in the vein of the Saturday morning cartoons that we grew up loving, and to see this dream realized has been absolutely thrilling."

The Duffer Brothers are involved as executive producers together with Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen from 21 Laps Entertainment and their own production company Upside Down Pictures. The creative director is Eric Robles, known for series such as "Fanboy & Chum Chum" and "Glitch Techs".

In June 2024, Netflix presented some first concept drawings of the new series as part of "Next on Netflix: Animation". Scenes were shown in which children encounter terrifying creatures in the menacing shadow world – a clear indication that "Tales from '85" will retain the dark charm of the original.

A further exciting aspect is the creative approach that Matt Duffer disclosed in the Happy Sad Confused podcast. According to him, the spin-off will deviate significantly from the original: "It will be 1,000% different," Duffer stated. Although the series will remain part of the "Stranger Things" universe, it will be told in a completely new way. However, a release date has not been set yet. In any case, the fifth season of the original series awaits us this year – although an exact release date is still the subject of much speculation.

Stranger Things: How a Retro Series Became a Global Phenomenon

When "Stranger Things" was released on Netflix in July 2016, it quickly turned out to be a surprise hit. The story about the sudden disappearance of the boy Will Byers and the mysterious girl Eleven captivated audiences worldwide. Behind the sci-fi thriller is a mix of mystery, horror and emotional coming-of-age, spiced up with a good portion of 80s nostalgia.

The Magic of the 80s – Directed in a Modern Style

What makes "Stranger Things" special is the unique combination of retro charm and contemporary filmmaking. The Duffer Brothers, creators of the series, were heavily inspired by movies such as "E.T.", "Stand by Me" and "The Goonies". Walkie-talkies, BMX bikes, VHS tapes and synthesizer music create an atmosphere that evokes a feeling of homeliness and excitement for many viewers.

Strong Characters, Strong Messages

In addition to the gripping plot, the series is particularly impressive thanks to its stars. Characters such as Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike, Dustin, Lucas and Will quickly win the hearts of fans. They not only stand for friendship and solidarity, but also for courage, being different and growing up in a world full of perils – no matter if real or supernatural.

A Franchise with Global Influence

The success was not limited to the screen. With comics, novels, video games, its own Monopoly game and countless merchandising products, "Stranger Things" has become a brand that has expanded far beyond the medium of the series. Today, fans visit Hawkins film sets, wear clothes with demogorgons or discuss theories in forums all over the world.

The Adventure Continues

Despite five seasons, there is no end in sight. With the upcoming animated spin-off "Stranger Things: Tales from '85", Netflix is planning to expand the universe even further – this time in animated form. It will tell the story in a new manner, but will remain thematically within the familiar universe.

Conclusion: Nostalgia Meets the Spirit of the Times

"Stranger Things" is more than just a show – it is a modern cult phenomenon. It connects generations, captivates with its storytelling and, with each season, evokes memories of a time that never really passed.