Stranger Things and Industry - A Guide

Introduction

• Relevance: For OCR A Level Media Studies.
• Creators: Duffer Brothers.
  • Influences: 1980s culture, Steven Spielberg, M. Night Shyamalan.

Production Background

• Pitch Strategy: Used an edited Stephen King book cover.
• Production Company: 21 Laps Entertainment.
  • Focused on in-camera effects to enhance 1980s authenticity.
• Network: Netflix.
  • Initially considered a film; decided on a TV series to avoid stretching content.
  • Ability to create shorter, engaging series without ads.
  • Used product placement over traditional ads for funding.

Impact of Netflix

• Binge-Watching Culture: Entire series available at once.
• Viewer Success: 15 million viewers in 35 days.
• Budget: $48 million for special effects and notable cast members (e.g., Winona Ryder).

Genre and Content

• Mix of Genres: Sci-fi, horror, teen drama, comedy.
• Regulatory Freedom: Not governed by Ofcom; allows darker, controversial content.

Marketing Strategies

• Social Media: Utilized platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
  • Shared behind-the-scenes content, fan art, and interviews.
• Word of Mouth: Reviews and discussions by celebrities and fans.
• Viral Campaigns: Created a fake news report for character Bob's disappearance.
• Media Appearances: Cast attended talk shows and magazine features.
• Advanced Screenings: Released 8 minutes of Episode 1 on YouTube pre-launch.

Cross-Platform Promotions

• Twitch: Streamed gaming events on set.
• 360-Degree Experiences: Tours of show locations.
• Hashtags: Engaged fans with hashtag campaigns.

Additional Marketing Tools

• Awards and Recognition: Presence at award shows increased visibility.
• Merchandise: Limited to collectibles like pop dolls and posters.
• Comics and Books: Extended universe content.
• High-Profile Advertisements: Super Bowl ad spot.
• Synergistic Partnerships: Collaborations with Hasbro, Burger King, Coke.

Fan Engagement Activities

• Comic-Con Participation: Panels, interviews, and fan interactions.
• Guerrilla Marketing: Fictional ads for Hawkins Power and Light.
• Interactive Events: Stranger Things-themed fairs and funhouses.

Conclusion

• Note: This guide provides insights into the production and marketing strategies of "Stranger Things" as relevant to media studies.
• Further Resources: More videos and guides are available on the creator's channel.