It’s only been about four months since Stranger Things dropped on Netflix and became the pop culture sensation of 2016, and in that brief amount of time, we’ve seen a metric ton of parodies and homages. We’ve gone from the awesome (Stranger Things 8-bit video game!) to the super awesome (nothing will ever beat Stranger Pugs. Nothing. Because PUGS). Having said that, the pugs might be given a run for their money with this latest Stranger Things mash-up.
Thanks to the folks at Polygon, we’ve learned that filmmakers Leigh Lahav and Oren Mendez have reimagined the cast of Stranger Things as Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang in the classic A Charlie Brown Christmas with Merry Christmas, Will Byers. Hey, since the actual series ended around Christmas 1983, this is kind of/sort of in continuity with the series, so extra nerd points go to the filmmakers here. It should be noted, this isn’t the first time someone has made the Peanuts/Stranger Things connection, but it is the first time someone has animated it.
The new short film follows Will Byers, cast in the traditional mopey Charlie Brown role, recently rescued from the Upside Down. But he’s now having a hell of a time getting into the whole Christmas thing. Being trapped in a scary-ass alternate dimension will do that to a person.
In order to try and get into the Christmas spirit, Will seeks advice from his friends like Dustin, Lucas, Mike, Eleven, Steve Harrington, and even his mother Joyce. We don’t actually see Winona Ryder’s character here, but as fans of Peanuts know, adults are not to be seen, only heard…and only heard making “wah-wah-wah” sounds. And in keeping with Peanuts traditions, there is, of course, a random goofy dance sequence. You can watch the entire short film in the video above.
What do you think of this latest Stranger Things parody? Best one yet, or does Stranger Pugs still rule the roost? Let us know your thoughts down below in the comments.
Image:Â Leigh Lahav and Oren Mendez