This 45-Year-Old Stephen King Story Is Essential if You Like Stranger Things (but Please Ignore the Remake)
News October 25, 2025

This 45-Year-Old Stephen King Story Is Essential if You Like Stranger Things (but Please Ignore the Remake)

Image Courtesy of NetflixStranger Things returns for its last season this year, with three parts airing on November 26, December 25, and finally ending on New Year’s Eve. The hit series by Matt and Ross Duffer owes a lot to the influence of two people. Those two people are Steven Spielberg and Stephen King. It is easy to [...]The post This 45-Year-Old Stephen King Story Is Essential if You Like Stranger Things (but Please Ignore the Remake) appeared first on ComicBook.com.

If you're counting down the days until the final season of "Stranger Things," arriving in three parts on November 26th, December 25th, and concluding on New Year's Eve, now is the perfect time to delve deeper into the inspirations behind the hit Netflix series. While creators Matt and Ross Duffer have openly acknowledged the influence of Steven Spielberg, another name looms large over the Hawkins, Indiana, saga: Stephen King.

For fans eager to understand the DNA of "Stranger Things," one particular King story stands out as essential reading: a chilling tale published 45 years ago. While the original article doesn't specify the exact title, it strongly suggests that exploring King's earlier works offers a key to unlocking the narrative threads woven throughout "Stranger Things."

The Duffer brothers have masterfully blended elements of 80s nostalgia, government conspiracies, and supernatural horror, all hallmarks of King's writing. Think telekinetic powers, monstrous creatures lurking in the shadows, and the resilience of childhood friendships tested by extraordinary circumstances. These themes resonate deeply in both King's classic stories and the world of "Stranger Things."

The original article also gives one very important piece of advice: if you're looking for the true essence of this Stephen King story, stick to the original. The author strongly urges readers to ignore the remake, implying that it misses the mark in capturing the spirit and nuances that make the original so influential. This suggestion implies that the original version, whether a novel or short story, provides a richer and more authentic experience, offering deeper insights into the themes that inspired "Stranger Things."

So, as you prepare for the final chapter of Eleven's journey and the battle against the Upside Down, consider immersing yourself in the works of Stephen King. By exploring his earlier stories, you might just discover a new appreciation for the intricate web of influences that shaped "Stranger Things" into the cultural phenomenon it is today. Just remember to heed the advice and seek out the original – you might be surprised at the connections you uncover.
Category: Entertainment