how are different social groups represented in the sequence you
have analysed?
what role does the use of media
language, signs and signifiers have in constructing and presenting these
representations are real?
[500 words]
Social groups are clearly
represented in the first episode of stranger things through the introductions
of the different characters throughout the episode. The stereotypes exerted
through the main characters limit them to simple characteristics - the
scientist for example who is the first character introduced in the opening
scene, his haircut, typical white gown and slim figure conform to what the
audience expect. However, the setting is subverted as the mise-en-scene
contains key elements suggesting supernatural - the flickered lighting, the
dark, sombre hallway and the scientist's panicked demeanour.
Further representations of social groups are shown through the 3
boys, Mike, Lucas and Dustin. At the beginning of the episode, the boys conform
to the stereotyping of basic, intelligent, 'nerdy' kids that spend their free
time gaming or learning, however, they begin to subvert their stereotyping when
their friend Will goes missing in a supernatural way. It is here where the
boys, especially Mike, take on the protagonist role in the episode. They take
it upon themselves to investigate their missing friend. Low angle shots are
used to highlight their importance and tracking shots are used to show that
they are the main focal point and that they are leading the narrative.
The intertextuality used in
stranger things to the classic 80s film, E.T are shown through the boys and is
demonstrated in the scenes where the boys are travelling around on their
choppers and using the torches, and then again in the scene where they discover
Eleven, using the singular torchlight.
Subversion of stereotype is also evident in the social groups
regarding the police force in stranger things. The head sheriff in the town of Hawkins
is represented as unbothered, slow and unequipped. This could be however,
considered a conformation of the stereotype as he is a sheriff in a small,
unhappening town and typically, they may be more carefree. However, Hopper’s
importance is verified with the use of the tracking shots around the forest in
the search for Will and the close-ups of his face. The realism is suggested here
as a balance, highlighting the binary oppositions here as the police are very normal
with their uniform, office, procedure etc. as opposed to the supernatural theme
in the episode.
Another social group is represented in the first episode, in the
scene featuring Nancy and Steve. Steve represents the typical jock of the school,
and Nancy as the attractive, clever, aspirational character that girls in the school
aspire to be. They are very ‘real’ characters and again, provide the normality
balance in the episode. The social group of teenagers show the simplicity of
their lives compared to others in the episode.
