What’s the story?

The third series of Stranger Things is now streaming on Netflix.

Remind me what that is again?

A sci-fi drama series that is a love letter to the 1980s classics which entertained a generation. Think Stand By Me, Altered States, The Thing, and E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial. Picture a Frankenstein’s monster created from the greatest hits of Steven Spielberg, Stephen King and John Carpenter.

Ah, yes. Wasn’t everything tied up neatly in series two?

Not quite. The perils of the Upside Down – a dark and dangerous alternate dimension – are still lurking.

Yikes. What’s the lowdown on the Upside Down?

The latest series builds upon its 80s celluloid influences with an homage to alien invasion and zombie films creating a terrifying new threat.

Is it still set in the 1980s?

Indeed. Following on from the first two series, set in 1983 and 1984 respectively, this one unfolds in 1985.

What else can you tell me?

Well, it’s summer in Hawkins, Indiana. School’s out, there’s a new mall and our crew – Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas and Will – are on the cusp of adulthood. Romance blossoms and complicates the group’s dynamic. Meanwhile, a spine-tingling threat looms with the arrival of enemies old and new.

What’s the moral of this tale?

That friendship is always stronger than fear.

Can I get a T-shirt with that slogan?

If you’re very good, I’ll get you a matching mug.