The series contains many references to other media and is full of homages to classic horror movies, science fiction, and other 1980s films. Its references and influences range from the works of Stephen King to John Carpenter to Stephen Spielberg, and more. However, in an interview with Esquire, Matt Duffer revealed Elfen Lied to be an influence as well, saying "There's an anime called Elfen Lied, and I didn't think that many people have seen it, but people online picked up on that in the first two-and-a-half-minute trailer." This connection was confirmed again in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.