Stephen King Compares Stranger Things To IT: A Look At His Comments

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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King's Praise for Stranger Things's Nostalgic Atmosphere

Stephen King has openly lauded Stranger Things's masterful recreation of the 1980s atmosphere, a key element he also expertly employed in IT. The show's retro aesthetic, from the soundtrack and fashion to the overall visual style, creates a palpable sense of nostalgia that deeply resonates with the feeling evoked in his own Derry, Maine. This nostalgic backdrop isn't just stylistic; it's crucial in setting the tone for both narratives.

• Specific quotes: While precise quotes directly comparing Stranger Things to IT regarding nostalgia are scarce in readily available public information, King's general praise for the show's atmosphere is widely known, highlighting the evocative power of its 80s setting. Finding specific quotes would require deep archival research of interviews.
• Resonant scenes: The BMX bikes, arcade games, and synth-heavy soundtrack of Stranger Things immediately conjure the same feeling of childhood wonder and impending dread present in the small-town setting of IT. The visually similar aesthetic of both the Derry and Hawkins settings contributes to this shared atmosphere.
• Importance of setting: Both IT and Stranger Things demonstrate how powerfully setting can contribute to horror. The familiar yet unsettling environments create a sense of unease, making the supernatural elements all the more terrifying. The nostalgic setting simultaneously draws the audience in while subtly highlighting the vulnerability of the children within these seemingly idyllic towns.

The Shared Themes of Childhood Trauma and Facing Fears

At the heart of both Stranger Things and IT lies the exploration of childhood trauma and the confronting of inner demons. The young protagonists in both narratives grapple with personal losses, bullying, and the anxieties inherent in growing up. The monstrous entities, whether Pennywise or the Demogorgon, serve as potent metaphors for these internal struggles.

• Examples of childhood trauma: In IT, the Loser's Club members contend with the trauma of bullying, parental neglect, and the psychological scars inflicted by Pennywise. Similarly, Stranger Things features children dealing with the disappearance of a friend, family issues, and the fear of the unknown.
• Monsters as internal fears: Pennywise's ability to exploit the children's deepest fears mirrors how the Demogorgon and the Upside Down in Stranger Things represent the anxieties and uncertainties of adolescence and navigating a world that feels increasingly alien.
• Coming-of-age: Both stories are deeply rooted in the coming-of-age journey. Overcoming the external threats represented by the monsters requires confronting internal fears and developing resilience, highlighting the power of friendship and courage in the face of adversity.

Differences in Tone and Approach: Horror vs. Sci-Fi Horror

Despite the shared thematic elements, IT and Stranger Things differ significantly in tone and genre. While both are undeniably horror, their approaches diverge considerably.

• IT's cosmic horror:* King’s IT leans heavily into cosmic horror, exploring themes of existential dread and the terrifying vastness of the unknown. The focus is on psychological terror and the deeply unsettling nature of Pennywise himself.
• Stranger Things' blend of genres: Stranger Things, conversely, blends sci-fi elements with horror and adventure. The mystery surrounding Eleven's powers and the Upside Down introduces a fantastical dimension that differentiates it from the more grounded horror of IT.
• Narrative impact: These differences profoundly impact the overall narrative and audience experience. IT offers a more intense and psychologically disturbing experience, while Stranger Things provides a more expansive, adventure-filled narrative with a broader appeal.

The Impact of King's Comments on Both Fanbases

King's comparison of Stranger Things and IT has sparked significant discussion among fans of both works.

• Social media and fan theories: Social media platforms erupted with analyses of the comparison, generating lively debates and countless fan theories exploring the potential connections between the two narratives.
• Impact on popularity: King’s endorsement has undoubtedly contributed to the continued popularity of both Stranger Things and IT, exposing each fanbase to the other.
• Controversies and differing opinions: Not all fans agree with the comparison. Some argue the differences in tone and genre are too significant to warrant a direct comparison, while others celebrate the unexpected connection between two seemingly distinct works.

Stephen King's Stranger Things and IT Connection: A Lasting Impression

Stephen King's comments highlight compelling similarities between Stranger Things and IT, primarily focusing on their shared exploration of childhood trauma, the use of monsters as metaphors for inner demons, and the importance of setting. However, significant differences exist in tone and genre, with IT emphasizing cosmic horror and psychological terror, while Stranger Things embraces a blend of sci-fi, horror, and adventure. His opinion has undeniably impacted the perception of both works, sparking conversations and reaffirming their enduring appeal.

Have you noticed these parallels between Stranger Things and IT? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss Stephen King's perceptive comparison further! You can revisit both shows on Netflix and read IT at your favorite book retailer. [Link to Netflix] [Link to Book Retailer]