Strap in, mouthbreathers, we’ve got a new season of Stranger Things coming in hot on May 27th, 2022. And while many are excited, some have been waiting for season four for so long, they’re pretty much here:
Hey, don’t despair, it’s only a little over a month left before we pick up where we left off. And there’s plenty of good TV out there to fill in the void until we get some answers. Here are some amazing shows that have that Stranger Things feel to them, by way of tone, setting, or ghoulish mystery.
Twin Peaks
I mean, this is where it all began, right? The Sci-fi mystery genre? More or less? Ah, well, in any case, Twin Peaks was clearly an inspiration for Stranger Things, as it features all of the staples of the genre: a missing person, weird supernatural happenings, and the unsettling dissonance that comes with living in a small town with secrets.
That said, Twin Peaks carries a much more mature tone to it, as it isn’t catered towards younger viewers as much as Stranger Things is. Questions of morality are dealt with in true David Lynch neutrality, while the horror aspects are played up to the umpteenth degree—also in line with Lynchian standards.
Freaks and Geeks
If what you’re craving is more 80s throwbacks, then Freaks and Geeks will be the most faithful replicant of the era for you. Filmed in the 90s, yet taking place in 1980-81, this show has a punchy, down-to-earth vibe to it that matches the boyish antics of Stranger Things and then some.
Even aside from all that, it’s a cult classic for a reason. The writing is top-notch, the plotlines for each kid feel realistic (take note, Euphoria), and the callbacks to the era feel genuine in a way that makes even 90s kids like me feel nostalgic. I could totally see the kids from Stranger Things melding with this crew, or vice versa—in particular, the idea of Kim Kelly taking on a sisterly role with El has me tickled.
Misfits
Imagine if the kids from Stranger Things were in their early twenties, and each one of them had their own unique power. That’s pretty much Misfits: a show about societal outcasts who try to cope with their new superpowers while also completing their community service.
It’s got the wit and suspense that Stranger Things has, albeit with a British dryness to it. Less horror, more humor, yet with just as much heart in all the right places. And considering each power caters to their own personalities (i.e. the brash Kelly being able to read minds, while shy Simon can disappear), it might be fun to consider what similar powers the Hawkins cast might have. I could definitely see Will becoming a wizard of some sort.
In The Flesh
For those who liked the darker, more serious moments in Stranger Things, you might enjoy what In The Flesh has to offer. Criminally underrated and tragic in nature, this show grapples with a hypothetical post-zombie-apocalypse’d world, where the recently resurrected are given a second chance at life in a world that hates them.
Things are made more complicated for the main protagonist, Kieran Walker, who also has to grapple with his sexuality in a small, conservative town. Considering how awkwardly many sci-fi shows tend to blend the supernatural with more serious, mature elements, In The Flesh manages to be incredibly graceful and captivating in all respects.
Black Mirror
Yes, I know, many of you are probably rolling your eyes at this one. Black Mirror is long past its heyday, and is now the subject of more scrutiny (well-deserved, honestly) than anything else. But regardless of how it’s aged, it cannot be denied that it was—and still is—a tour de force for modern sci-fi television.
The great thing about this series is that it isn’t static. If you don’t like an episode, if it doesn’t quite scratch that Stranger Things itch, you can just fast forward to the next one and see if that does the trick. Odds are, you’ll probably find at least one that blends all the things you love about Stranger Things, whether it be the mystery, the monsters, or the cheek.
Russian Doll
If you combine the endlessly watchable vibes, subtle creepiness, and snappy writing of Stranger Thing’s first season with the relatable malaise of thirtysomething womanhood, then you’ll probably end up loving Russian Doll as much as many of us do. Added bonus in common? The kickass outfits.
Honestly, I can’t think of enough good things to say about this show. It’s unsettling in all the best ways, and although much of the mystery is left unsolved, there’s a sense of resolution by the end that’s incredibly satisfying. And in any case, the new season is coming out on 4/20, so now’s the time to finally get caught up.
Dark
I’ve heard a lot of people call Dark the German answer to Stranger Things and Twin Peaks, and I’d say they’re onto something. It’s, uh … definitely dark. Much darker than either show, yet still in step with the basic premise and themes.
There’s mystery, there’s sci-fi creepiness, alternate universes, secret societies … it’s got all that, and then some. I’d say more, but if I’m being completely honest, I had to take a break with this show and am still mustering the nerve to get back into it. Worth it, but proceed with caution.
The End of the F*cking World
Full disclosure, there’s no sci-fi in this at all. It’s based on a graphic novel, but there are no monsters or upside-downs or anything like that. This is more a recommendation for anyone who enjoyed how crass the kids were in Stranger Things, and wants to see more of that.
There are absolutely more mature themes in this show (including attempts at sexual violence), so bear that in mind if you’re curious about this show. But ultimately, it matches Stranger Things’ cast and tone beat-for-beat, and you gotta admit, there’s something satisfying about watching kids do and say all the things you wish you could have done and said when you were their age.
I Am Not Okay With This
Basically the same as The End of the F***ing World (they take place in the same meta, after all), but with telekinesis and baby gays. Dope.
Okay yes, that’s a pretty basic description that doesn’t truly give this show the merit it’s due, but they’re very similar shows and ought to be watched back-to-back to get the best possible experience out of them. The cool thing about I Am Not Okay With This is it’s a lot more queer-centric, and it might resonate more with younger fans of Stranger Things. Especially concerning matters of nerdiness.
Lovecraft Country
It’s without a doubt that Stranger Things is an incredibly white show, and for those who wish to watch a show with both an eerie feel and real diversity, Lovecraft Country might be an ideal alternative. That may seem like a reductive comparison, but Lovecraft Country is a deliberate commentary on race and sci-fi, as it touches on the insidiousness of white America as much as it runs from scary tentacle monsters.
With an incredible cast and gripping narrative, it’s truly a shame that this series was canceled, but it’s still the sort of show that will always be watchable. Plus, it’s got Jonathan Majors, who owns my entire heart.
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What else do you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments!
(Featured Image: Netflix)
