The world of Stranger Things continues to expand, much to the delight of its fervent fanbase. While the live-action saga has concluded, Netflix is poised to transport audiences back to the eerie yet beloved town of Hawkins with its exciting new animated spinoff, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85. A recently unveiled trailer promises an intriguing and exhilarating new chapter, ensuring the fight against the supernatural is far from over.
A Fresh Perspective on a Familiar Universe
Set between the dramatic events of the second and third seasons of the original Stranger Things series, Tales From ’85 invites viewers to revisit the winter break of 1985. Initially, the core group of friends — Eleven, Mike Wheeler, Will Byers, Dustin Henderson, Lucas Sinclair, and Max Mayfield — are enjoying a period of relative calm, relishing carefree days after the perceived closure of the Upside Down gate. However, this tranquility is short-lived. A chilling supernatural presence soon permeates Hawkins, signaling the arrival of formidable new monsters. The series aims to capture the nostalgic spirit of an ’80s Saturday morning cartoon, bringing a unique visual and narrative style to the beloved universe.
The Gang Reunites for a Paranormal Peril
As the gang delves into a bewildering paranormal mystery that grips their hometown, they won’t be navigating the dangers alone. Fan-favorite characters, including the ever-resourceful Steve Harrington and the indomitable police chief Jim Hopper, also make their anticipated return, joining forces with the younger heroes. The trailer hints at threats lurking beneath the icy landscape, posing a crucial question: are these new creatures offshoots of the Upside Down, clandestine experiments from Hawkins Lab, or something entirely novel and more sinister? The friends must race against time to unravel this enigma, not only to save Hawkins once more but also to protect Eleven from the lingering, watchful eyes of the government.
Creative Visionaries Behind the Animation
This ambitious animated project is developed by Eric Robles, who also serves as its showrunner, writer, and executive producer. The series proudly bears the backing of Stranger Things co-creators Matt and Ross Duffer, ensuring its authenticity within the established lore. Robles offered a tantalizing glimpse into the nature of the new antagonists, telling Tudum, “It’s like Hawkins Lab science meets Upside Down matter. When you put them together, those are the kinds of creatures we have in our world.” This fusion promises a fresh take on the terrifying entities that have become synonymous with the franchise.
An All-Star Voice Cast Brings Characters to Life
A talented ensemble has been assembled to voice the iconic characters. Brooklyn Davey Norstedt lends her voice to Eleven, while Jolie Hoang-Rappaport (from In Your Dreams) takes on the role of Max. Luca Diaz portrays Mike, Elisha “EJ” Williams voices Lucas, Braxton Quinney is Dustin, and Benjamin Plessala brings Will to life. The returning adult characters are voiced by Brett Gipson as Jim Hopper and Jeremy Jordan (Hazbin Hotel) as Steve Harrington. Adding further intrigue, Odessa A’zion (Marty Supreme), Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips are also slated to join the Stranger Things universe in undisclosed roles, hinting at new characters and plotlines.
Set to premiere on April 23, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 promises a captivating blend of nostalgia, mystery, and thrilling monster battles, offering fans a fresh way to experience the beloved world of Hawkins. Get ready to dive back into the unknown!
