I thought it was a cliche.

After the release of the Netflix original series Stranger Things, it seemed like the entire world was watching. However, I was not tuning in.

I am not normally a fan of Netflix originals. I tend to find them cheesy and lacking a substantial plot. Although the internet was buzzing over the overnight sensation, I neglected to watch it. For two months, I continued to avoid what I believed was another average show with an average story. But one afternoon, my curiosity got the best of me and I caved. And I am so grateful I did.

Stranger Things takes place in fictional Hawkins, Indiana, during the 1980s. What appears to be a simple, boring town, holds secrets no adult can begin to understand. The story is based around a group of middle-schoolers, all of whom are quite nerdy, but loveable nonetheless. The story begins when the four friends, Will (Noah Schnapp), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) are playing Dungeons and Dragons in Mike’s basement. Much to their dismay, Mike’s mother demands that the kids return home. Dustin, Lucas, and Will head home, and on the way back, Will mysteriously disappears.

There are rising concerns from many parties, including Will’s family and friends. Specifically, Will’s mother, Joyce Byers (Winona Rider), expresses her worries to Chief Jim Hopper (David Harbour). Joyce and Hopper then work together to find Will. While the young trio works to do the same, they do so with little help from any adult.

Being around 12, the trio have to overcome obstacles that Joyce and Hopper have no problem overcoming. However, the three boys meet a strange girl named Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), who helps them throughout their journey; with her superhuman powers, of course.

The fantastic plot is complemented by fantastic acting. Extinguishing any fear I had of a bad interpretation of a bad story, the child actors do their jobs especially well. Gatten Matarazzo (Dustin) is my personal favorite. His blunt humor and adorable personality shine through his character.  Another favorite of mine is Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), who embodies female strength and courage in a new and exciting way. These two specifically drew my attention; however, the entire cast did their jobs especially well, making Stranger Things even more enjoyable.

Stranger Things is a short series, with a mere 8 episodes. But once I watched the finale, I was hungry for more. Luckily, season 2 will be released at an unannounced time during 2017.

To say Stranger Things is a show worth watching is an understatement. The earth-shattering story is one that must be followed to the end. I fell in love with the actors and characters alike, and the child-like banter between these innocent 12-year-olds is hilarious and enjoyable.

This “cliche” was one for the books.