25 Thrilling Films for Every Stranger Things Fan
“Stranger Things” fans know the thrill of supernatural mysteries and powerful friendships. If you’re craving more of that same energy, these films will keep you hooked. Packed with eerie encounters, heart-pounding action, and a touch of nostalgia, each one promises an experience that’ll satisfy your love for all things strange and exhilarating.
Super 8 (2011)
A group of kids intent on making a homemade film stumbles upon classified information involving an alien. The creepy vibe and nostalgic ’80s setting mirror the adventurous spirit in “Stranger Things.” Moments of friendship, suspense, and mystical undertones bring charm and tension to the movie.
Akira (1988)
Set in a dystopian future, a biker gang’s leader gains dangerous psychic abilities after an experiment goes wrong. Stunning animation and intense action made Akira a groundbreaking force in anime. Themes of rebellion, government control, and unchecked power add layers to the action-packed narrative, influencing sci-fi for decades.
The Goonies (1985)
Treasure maps, pirate ships, and hidden secrets lie at the heart of this ’80s adventure. A band of misfit kids must outsmart culprits while navigating underground caves. Echoes of teamwork and camaraderie seen in “Stranger Things” are reflected here, making it a beloved classic for the genre’s followers.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
In Spielberg’s heartwarming tale, a lonely boy connects deeply with a stranded alien. Government agents and childhood wonder clash as the story unfolds, echoing the themes of secretive experiments and friendships that shape “Stranger Things.” Its timeless mix of innocence and mystery feels deeply familiar
Stand By Me (1986)
In their search for a missing body, four boys face the haunting challenges of growing up and facing their fears. Strong connections among the group highlight the darker aspects of childhood, much like the emotional and spooky adventures seen in “Stranger Things” within a close-knit town.
Jaws (1975)
Beachgoers become prey as a great white shark wreaks havoc on a coastal town. As fear spreads, a ragtag group—the law enforcement officer, biologist, and fisherman—works together to stop the beast. With suspenseful pacing and groundbreaking animatronics, the motion picture remains a landmark in thriller filmmaking.
The Lost Boys (1987)
Vampires and teenage rebellion stir up trouble in a California beach town. With a mix of humor and horror, this cult favorite delivers a unique coming-of-age tale wrapped in otherworldly elements. Its balance of danger and humor resembles how “Stranger Things” handles its mix of the familiar and strange.
The Thing (1982)
Deep in Antarctica, a team of researchers faces a shapeshifting alien capable of taking on human form. Paranoia escalates as trust between the crew unfolds, and isolation becomes suffocating. The hair-raising atmosphere and groundbreaking practical effects keep the horror fresh decades after its release.
The Monster Squad (1987)
Young monster hunters challenge Dracula, Frankenstein, and several other iconic creatures in a thrilling confrontation. Humor and horror combine perfectly, like how “Stranger Things” balances thrills with lighthearted moments. Kids saving their town from supernatural forces gives this film a fun and nostalgic appeal.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
Otherworldly beings and mysterious lights spark fear and fascination in this Spielberg classic. The film slowly builds suspense as humans grapple with the unknown. Its sense of wonder and dread mirrors the mysteries in “Stranger Things” as both deal with extraordinary events happening in ordinary places.
The Brood (1979)
Suppressed rage manifests as monstrous offspring in this unnerving psychological horror centered on a troubled mother. David Cronenberg’s exploration of trauma, therapy, and body horror creates an unsettling narrative. Chilling performances and spooky visuals heighten the tension.
Poltergeist (1982)
A once-calm suburban household becomes a nightmare when evil spirits begin to haunt it. Paranormal forces invading daily life recall Hawkins’s struggles against dark entities. Eerie tension and deep emotional storytelling align with the family-driven suspense in “Stranger Things.”
Firestarter (1984)
Gifted with pyrokinesis, a young girl is on the run from government agents seeking to control her powers. Stephen King’s gripping thriller reflects “Stranger Things” themes of experimentation and the struggle to understand powers. The young protagonist’s journey through isolation and survival gives the film a powerful emotional core.
Scanners (1981)
Psychic powers become dangerous munitions in this intense thriller. Those with abilities face off against a shadowy government agency, much like the conflicts that Eleven and the Hawkins gang faced. Its balance of superhuman abilities with psychological suspense creates a suspenseful movie that captures viewers’ imaginations.
Donnie Darko (2001)
Time travel, alternate dimensions, and teenage alienation create a complex, thought-provoking story. With a creepy atmosphere and cryptic occurrences, the feature leaves viewers questioning what is real and what is not. Fans of “Stranger Things” will connect with the film’s psychological intensity and the feel of a larger unseen force.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Paranormal investigators tackle spooky perils with a mix of gadgets and comedy. This fun mix of 1980s humor and mystical adventures strikes the right balance between fright and laughs. It’s no wonder the Hawkins gang dressed as “Ghostbusters” for Halloween—this cinematic piece reflects the playful side of supernatural storytelling.
Weird Science (1985)
What happens when two nerdy teens accidentally create the perfect woman with a home computer? Chaos, of course. Wacky antics and a sci-fi take on teenage life make this comedy an entertaining adventure. Humorous lessons about growing up and accepting yourself make it a quirky addition to 80s classics.
The Blob (1988)
Chaos ensues as a monstrous alien with the ability to shapeshift invades a quiet town in this suspenseful remake. The gooey, practical effects and tense moments give it a unique ’80s creature-feature feel. As ordinary people fight back, the blend of horror and small-town camaraderie evokes the same community spirit seen in “Stranger Things.”
Midnight Special (2016)
A father and son go on the run from the government and a cult, trying to protect the boy’s special powers. At its heart, the film explores the powerful bond between the parent and the child, reminiscent of the strong relationships in “Stranger Things.” Its slow-burn suspense and occult elements add to the intrigue.
Aliens (1986)
When Ripley returns to face the xenomorphs, action takes center stage as a colony battles for survival. Intense fight sequences and a decisive female lead deliver unforgettable moments. With a gripping alien danger, the motion picture offers non-stop tension, perfect for those who enjoy heart-filled creature horror.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy Krueger’s terrifying ability to haunt teenagers in their dreams blurs the line between reality and nightmares. Psychological dread and an unyielding villain craft a mysterious atmosphere that resonates with fans of Upside Down’s chilling dangers. An alternate dimension slowly invading everyday life sends a shiver down the spine.
Let the Right One In (2008)
Loneliness and friendship form the core of this Swedish vampire tale, where a mistreated boy befriends a mysterious girl. Quiet suspense and the film’s hauntingly snowy backdrop leave a lasting impression. Those who enjoy the emotional weight and paranormal twists of “Stranger Things” will find it fascinating.
Under the Skin (2013)
Disguised as a woman, an alien hunts unsuspecting men across Scotland. With haunting visuals and a sense of alienation, the picture explores themes of identity and humanity. Its unsettling atmosphere and otherworldly tone offer a slow, hypnotic descent into strangeness that echoes the eerie qualities of “Stranger Things.”
The Breakfast Club (1985)
High school detention transforms into a day of self-discovery as five teens from different cliques open up to each other. Each character reveals layers beneath their stereotypes, leading to heartfelt moments. Despite being set in a single location, witty dialogue and emotional depth make this an unforgettable look at teenage life.
The Fear Street Trilogy (2021)
R.L. Stine’s iconic books get a gritty makeover in this horror trilogy. Spanning centuries, the cursed town of Shadyside serves as the backdrop for supernatural dread. Each installment introduces unique villains, with gruesome horrors and spooky lore tying the films together. The mix of thrills and teen rebellion adds excitement.
