Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, the anticipated animated spinoff of Netflix’s iconic series, is set to explore new dimensions of the beloved universe. The show, which has been in development for some time, faced the challenge of introducing fresh creatures without a direct portal to the Upside Down. The creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, insisted on a 1980s cartoon-inspired theme, bridging the gap between seasons two and three of the original series.
The setting of 1985 posed a unique narrative hurdle, as it follows the events where Eleven, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown in the live-action series, closed the gateway to the Upside Down. Enter Eric Robles, a seasoned name in children’s animation, known for works like Fanboy & Chum Chum and Glitch Techs. Robles took on the challenge, dissecting the original series to uncover potential story avenues.
Robles’ Vision: Science Meets the Supernatural
Robles revealed his breakthrough moment to Entertainment Weekly, stating,
“I dissected the show, looking for any loopholes. I found a few of ’em. And then I found this one idea that I was just like, ‘Oh s—! I think that’s it.'”
The concept revolves around a fusion of Hawkins Lab science and Upside Down matter, suggesting a chain reaction affecting creatures in our world and introducing new anomalies.
While specific story details remain under wraps, the series promises a fresh cast of young actors stepping into familiar roles. These include Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven, Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max, and Luca Diaz as Mike, among others. Notable voices such as Odessa A’zion, Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips will also contribute to undisclosed roles.
Horror Elements with a New Twist
Despite the horror roots of Stranger Things, Robles emphasizes that the animated series will not strictly adhere to the horror genre. “It’s got its bite to it,” he admits, highlighting the real stakes for the characters.
“The stakes are real for the kids. It’s not Scooby-Doo, man. It’s not like, ‘Oh, well, it’ll be fine.’ We don’t know if it’ll be fine.”
The series will feature a variety of unique monsters, each connected to a season-long mystery rather than a mere “monster of the week” approach.
The animation is being handled by Flying Bark Productions, known for their work on What If…?. Robles draws inspiration from the original Stranger Things posters by Kyle Lambert, which echo the vibrant and dark aesthetic of Drew Struzan’s iconic movie posters. “Those posters have it all,” Robles explains. “They have these brilliant colors, there’s darks, there’s vibrancy to it. I’m just like, ‘That’s the show!’ If I can bring those posters to life, I got something pretty awesome.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tales From ’85
The animated series is slated for a 2026 release, with the Duffers overseeing the project while Robles serves as the principal showrunner and executive producer. The timeline of Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is set between the fall of 1984 and the summer of 1985, a period rich with untapped narrative potential. Robles hints that should the series succeed, any future seasons would continue under the Tales From ’85 banner, exploring the story hour by hour, day by day.
This new venture represents a bold expansion of the Stranger Things universe, promising to captivate audiences with its blend of nostalgia, mystery, and supernatural intrigue. As fans eagerly await its premiere, the series is poised to add a new layer to the ongoing saga of Hawkins, Indiana.
