Top 10 Movies and TV Shows Featuring the Young Cast of Stranger Things

Since its debut in 2016, Netflix’s Stranger Things has captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and talented cast. The success of this sci-fi series, crafted by the Duffer Brothers across four seasons (with a fifth on the way), skillfully melds 1980s nostalgia with a haunting storyline, making it a cultural phenomenon. In addition to renowned actors like Winona Ryder, the show features a range of talented youth actors. From breakout stars like Millie Bobby Brown to seasoned performers, the ensemble has more to offer than just their roles within the series.

The cast can be broadly divided into two groups: adult and young actors. Among the younger cast, Finn Wolfhard (Mike), Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Noah Schnapp (Will), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), and Sadie Sink (Max) stand out. They are joined by Joe Keery (Steve), Natalia Dyer (Nancy), Maya Hawke (Robin), and Charlie Heaton (Jonathan). Many of these talented individuals have ventured into diverse projects outside of Stranger Things, showcasing their versatility and range. Below are some noteworthy films and shows featuring these actors.

10 The Peanuts Movie (2015)

Noah Schnapp as Charlie Brown

Starting our list is The Peanuts Movie, which premiered before Stranger Things. This delightful animated film revitalizes the beloved Peanuts comic strip as it follows Charlie Brown in his quest for romance with the girl next door. Noah Schnapp shines in his role as Charlie, making it a noteworthy performance that highlights his talent at a young age. Critics have rated the movie highly, evidenced by an 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, along with a solid audience score of 76%. The film successfully conveys nostalgia while updating classic stories to appeal to contemporary viewers, making Schnapp’s portrayal all the more memorable.

9 Free Guy (2021)

Joe Keery as Keys

Free Guy is a 2021 film that brings a fresh twist, focusing on a bank teller named Guy who discovers he’s merely a backstory character in a video game. Amidst the film’s action-packed sequences, Joe Keery plays Keys, a game developer whose quirky personality adds a unique flair to the film. While Ryan Reynolds takes the lead, Keery’s performance provides comedic relief and expands his repertoire beyond the charming Steve Harrington he portrayed in Stranger Things. With an outstanding critics score of 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, Free Guy offers laughter and inspiration, urging viewers to take charge of their own narratives.

8 Honor Society (2022)

Gaten Matarazzo as Michael

Honor Society provides a fresh take on high school life, a realm familiar to many of the Stranger Things cast. This coming-of-age comedy follows Honor, an ambitious senior striving for admission to Harvard. In a bid to secure a recommendation letter, she resorts to sabotaging her peers, only to realize that genuine connections matter more than academic rivalry. Gaten Matarazzo, well-known for his Broadway success, brings charm and humor to his role, making this underappreciated film a delightful watch that illustrates relatable youth dilemmas. Despite its quieter release, Honor Society deserves recognition for its engaging portrayal of teenage struggles.

7 Do Revenge (2022)

Maya Hawke as Eleanor

Do Revenge is another 2022 Netflix film notable for its vibrant storytelling. It follows two high school girls, Drea and Eleanor, who unite to exact revenge on those who have wronged them. Maya Hawke plays Eleanor, showcasing her comedic talent alongside Camila Mendes. The film cleverly intertwines contemporary teen experiences with humor and a nostalgic touch reminiscent of classic teen comedies. Do Revenge is entertaining, colorful, and is sure to resonate with audiences both familiar and unfamiliar with Hawke’s work.

6 Fear Street (2021)

Sadie Sink as Ziggy

Combining teen drama with horror, the Fear Street trilogy is a must-watch for fans of Stranger Things who appreciate the darker elements of storytelling. In this series of slasher films, teenagers endeavor to unearth the truth behind a witch’s curse that haunts their town of Shadyside. The intense and thrilling atmosphere may remind viewers of some of the more sinister aspects of Stranger Things, making it a fitting entry in the discussion of young actors branching out creatively.

5 Enola Holmes (2020)

Millie Bobby Brown as Enola

Post-Stranger Things, Millie Bobby Brown has charmed audiences in various roles, particularly in the Enola Holmes series. Inspired by the adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ sister, Enola embarks on a quest to find her missing mother while showcasing her intelligence and wit. This character offers a refreshing contrast to Eleven, displaying a vibrant, investigative spirit steeped in historical context. The dynamic ensemble cast, including Henry Cavill and Helena Bonham Carter, enhances the films, making Enola Holmes a delightful addition to any viewing list.

4 Concrete Cowboy (2020)

Caleb McLaughlin as Cole

Caleb McLaughlin shines in Concrete Cowboy, where he portrays Cole, a troubled youth sent to spend the summer with his estranged father in Philadelphia. This film dives into the culture of urban horseback riding while exploring the themes of family and identity. With a notable cast including Idris Elba, this film stands out despite its understated release. Garnering an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it is an example of how McLaughlin captures the nuances of a complex character, enriching the narrative with his performance.

3 Yes, God, Yes (2019)

Natalia Dyer as Alice

Natalia Dyer’s significant role in Yes, God, Yes brings humor and depth to the film, where she plays Alice, a Catholic girl navigating her budding sexuality. This coming-of-age tale explores her moral dilemmas sparked by an unexpected online encounter, touching on themes that resonate with many adolescents today. Critically acclaimed for its sensitive yet comedic approached toward complex subject matter, it has received a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, affirming its importance in the modern cinematic landscape. Dyer’s performance elevates this narrative, making it a worthy watch for anyone interested in the adolescent experience.

2 It (2017)

Finn Wolfhard as Richie

Finn Wolfhard takes on a darker role in It, adapted from Stephen King’s chilling novel. He portrays Richie, a member of the Losers’ Club, as they confront a malevolent force preying on children in Derry. The films, split into two parts, serve up plenty of terrifying moments while showcasing the actors’ talents. Wolfhard brings charisma and relatability to his character, enhancing both the suspense and the camaraderie among the group. His performance, alongside the ensemble cast, highlights the power of friendship in facing fears, drawing parallels to the bonds formed in Stranger Things.

1 Fargo Season 5 (2023)

Joe Keery as Gator

Last but not least, Fargo remains a standout series that fans of Stranger Things should explore. Known for its anthology format, each season presents a unique narrative intertwined with crime and dark comedy. Keery appears in the latest season as Gator, a deputy determined to make a name for himself amidst an investigation into a seemingly ordinary suburbanite. With its intricate storytelling and engaging ensemble cast, Fargo exemplifies Keery’s range, showcasing another facet of his acting chops worth exploring parallel to his iconic role in Stranger Things.

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