Stranger Things began as a family-friendly sci-fi adventure that captured the hearts of millions. Over five seasons and ten years, it gradually transformed into a gripping epic centered on metaphysics, secret military operations, and intriguing endings that left fans debating the canon. While the live-action series may have concluded, the Stranger Things franchise is far from over. Following the announcement of a pro-shot Broadway play, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, fans were treated to the animated series, Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, capturing the nostalgic Saturday morning cartoon vibes of the early seasons.
Now, with the release of Season 2, Tales From ‘85 finds the perfect blend between episodic cartoon adventures and the serialized storytelling characteristic of the original series. Picking up shortly after the conclusion of Season 1, the new season kicks off in February of the year lying between Seasons 2 and 3 of the main show. With Valentine’s Day approaching, love is in the air. However, a gift from Mike to El goes awry, unraveling an unexpected threat to Hawkins, one rooted in the town’s mysterious past. The menace doesn’t come from the usual monstrous fauna but rather from spectral forms in the wilderness, offering a refreshing twist.
Season 1 was a delight for many, notwithstanding a few flaws in pacing and canon alignment. The frequent battle-per-episode format often ended with El’s telekinetic powers saving the day at the last moment. However, Season 2 ups the stakes by introducing ghostly creatures immune to El’s abilities, compelling her to navigate new challenges and explore a feeling of helplessness within the group context. This new dynamic adds depth to her character and keeps viewers on edge.
The series also tackles the “Nikki problem.” This pink-haired, rebellious newcomer, voiced by Odessa A’Zion, is bound by narrative constraints, as her character doesn’t appear in the live-action series, creating continuity concerns in Season 1. But as Season 2 unfolds its eight thrilling episodes, these concerns diminish, allowing fans to embrace the standalone universe it presents.
Tales From ‘85 carves out a space of its own, existing in a delightful pocket universe where our favorite characters engage in endless supernatural adventures. Much like The Real Ghostbusters compared to the original Ghostbusters film, this series provides a fresh perspective away from the constraints of live-action. When viewers accept this parallel reality, the brilliance of the animated series becomes evident: Stranger Things viewed through a vibrant new lens.
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