Stephen King On Stranger Things: The IT Connection

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Thematic Parallels Between "IT" and the Upside Down

Derry, the fictional Maine town tormented by Pennywise in IT, and the Upside Down, the terrifying alternate dimension in Stranger Things, share a chilling kinship. Both settings represent distorted, nightmarish realities that prey upon the vulnerabilities of children, particularly their deepest fears. This shared thematic element forms the bedrock of the connection between the two narratives.

• Portals to Other Dimensions: Both Derry and the Upside Down act as portals to terrifying otherworldly realms, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.
• Monstrous Entities Preying on Children: Pennywise, the shape-shifting clown in IT, and the Demogorgon, along with other monstrous creatures in Stranger Things, are terrifying manifestations of childhood fears, preying on the innocence and vulnerability of their young victims. They are not merely monsters; they are embodiments of the darkest aspects of the human psyche.
• Childhood Trauma and Fear: Both narratives effectively explore the lasting impact of childhood trauma and the pervasive nature of fear. The experiences in both Derry and the Upside Down leave lasting scars on the young protagonists, shaping their lives in profound ways.
• Mystery and Secrets Shrouded in Darkness: A palpable sense of mystery and hidden secrets permeates both settings. The past is never truly buried, and the truth often lies in the darkest corners of these terrifying worlds, demanding to be unearthed.

Character Archetypes and Their "IT" Counterparts

Beyond the thematic similarities, Stranger Things also mirrors IT in its character archetypes. The personalities and roles of the main characters in Stranger Things bear a striking resemblance to their counterparts in IT, showcasing the clear influence of King's storytelling on the show's character development.

• Eleven and Beverly Marsh: Eleven, with her powerful but vulnerable nature and troubled past, echoes Beverly Marsh's resilience and strength in the face of unimaginable horror. Both are powerful figures, often underestimated due to their age.
• Mike Wheeler and Bill Denbrough: Mike Wheeler's steadfast leadership and determination mirror Bill Denbrough's unwavering commitment to protecting his friends and confronting their fears. Both are the de facto leaders of their respective groups.
• The Demogorgon and Pennywise: While visually distinct, the Demogorgon and Pennywise serve a similar purpose: terrifying, shape-shifting creatures embodying the children’s worst fears, exploiting their vulnerabilities for horrific effect.
• The Loser's Club and the Stranger Things Kids: The camaraderie and unwavering loyalty among the children in both narratives are strikingly similar. Both groups represent the power of friendship and the importance of facing fear together.

Visual and Atmospheric Similarities

The visual style and atmospheric elements of Stranger Things effectively capture the tone and aesthetic of Stephen King's IT, creating a sense of unease and impending doom that resonates deeply with viewers.

• Dark and Muted Color Palette: The dark, muted color palettes of both the Upside Down and Derry contribute to the overall sense of dread and foreboding.
• Strategic Use of Shadows and Dim Lighting: The masterful use of shadows and dimly lit scenes in both narratives builds suspense and reinforces the feeling of being watched, creating a constant sense of unease.
• Unsettling Imagery: The haunting imagery of monstrous figures lurking in the shadows, amplified by the use of special effects, enhances the horror and suspense.
• Overarching Feeling of Dread: A palpable sense of impending doom and inescapable dread permeates both worlds, reflecting King's mastery of building atmospheric tension.

The Enduring Legacy of Stephen King's Influence on Horror

Stephen King's profound influence extends far beyond IT and Stranger Things. His contribution to the horror genre is undeniable, shaping modern horror with his innovative storytelling techniques and exploration of universal themes.

• Relatable Characters and Compelling Storylines: King's ability to create relatable characters and weave compelling storylines is a hallmark of his work. This ability to make the extraordinary feel real is a key element in both IT and Stranger Things.
• Universal Themes of Childhood Trauma, Fear, and Loss: King masterfully explores themes of childhood trauma, fear, and loss, creating narratives that resonate with readers and viewers on a profound level. These are central themes in both narratives.
• Mastery of Suspense and Atmosphere Building: King's mastery of building suspense and crafting immersive atmospheres is evident in the chilling effectiveness of both IT and Stranger Things.
• Enduring Impact on Popular Culture: King's lasting impact on popular culture is undeniable, with his works continuing to inspire new generations of filmmakers, writers, and artists.

Conclusion:

The thematic parallels, character archetypes, and atmospheric similarities between Stephen King's IT and Stranger Things are undeniable, showcasing the significant influence of King's masterful storytelling on the creation of the hit Netflix series. The enduring legacy of King's work, his exploration of universal themes, and his mastery of suspense continue to resonate in modern horror, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. What other Stephen King influences do you see in Stranger Things? Discuss the Stephen King - Stranger Things connection below!