Stranger Things Titles Design
Updated: Sep 10
Stranger Things: A Cult Classic?
There is no mistaking that Netflix's Stranger Things has solidified its status as a cult hit since its debut on July 15, 2016. Over the years, the series has continued to captivate audiences with its nostalgic homage to 1980s pop culture, compelling storytelling, and memorable characters. Stranger Things remains one of Netflix's flagship series, with multiple seasons released and a dedicated fanbase that eagerly anticipates each new instalment. The show's blend of supernatural elements, thrilling suspense, and heartfelt moments has ensured its place in the pantheon of modern television classics.
There have been 30 and 40-somethings having nostalgia trips back to their 80s childhood and lapping up the nods to their favourite 80s Movies. There are references to E.T., The Goonies, Poltergeist, Alien, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Stand By Me and even The Shining and Commando! These are what I have spotted anyway and I am sure their are more.
Throughout the entire five season run, the credits were the one thing that captivated me from the beginning.
Those first 52 seconds...
Stranger Things Titles Design: The Creation
The Stranger Things titles sequence was developed by an LA-based studio named Imaginary Forces. They were fascinated by a designer named Richard Greenburg, known for crafting iconic titles for movies like The Untouchables, The Goonies, and Superman. These titles had an epic feel, and their goal was to replicate that sensation. Greenburg utilised titles, title graphics, and titles layered over other titles. Confused? me too! But his resulted in these iconic Stranger Things titles!
The Untouchables, for instance, is essentially just a font! Its epic and memorable nature inspired them to return to that simplicity.
goonies titles
With its Lucas-esuqe font outline glowing against a black background, the opening titles sets up perfectly what the atmospherics will be like. (This is also reflected in the poster artwork at the bottom of this post)
Add Stephen Kings influence of a bolder case in red adding more reference to its design and it becomes very haunting.
Furthermore, the synth soundtrack and the titles combine to create a mysterious and spooky invitation that draws you closer to your TV.
SK1 Stranger Things Typography
Stranger Things Font Design
If you were curious about which font was used for Stranger Things and wanted to recreate a design using it, well here it is. It's called Benguiat or ICT Benguiat Condensed.
Movie Font Design Inspiration
Both of these posters look the same at first glance, featuring striking visuals and a similar colour palette that immediately draws the viewer's attention. However, upon closer inspection, one can discern subtle differences that reflect the unique themes and nuances of their respective works.
The use of typography in both posters plays a significant role in conveying the mood and tone of the stories they depict, utilising fonts that evoke a sense of urgency or mystery. Furthermore, the choice of imagery not only highlights key characters but also hints at pivotal plot points, enticing potential viewers to delve deeper into the narratives.
This careful curation of visual elements showcases the artists' understanding of genre conventions and their ability to engage an audience through compelling design.
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