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Stranger Things and the Remote Control Demogorgon: A Deep Dive into the Upside Down

The Netflix series Stranger Things has captured the imaginations of viewers worldwide with its intriguing blend of 80s nostalgia, science fiction, and horror. A significant part of the show’s appeal lies in its terrifying monsters, particularly the Demogorgon. This blog post delves into the history of the Demogorgon, explores the Stranger Things franchise, and takes a closer look at the Remote Control Demogorgon toy that allows fans to bring the creature into their own homes.

The Demogorgon: From Myth to Monster

The Demogorgon’s roots can be traced back to ancient mythology. Originally a deity in ancient Greek mythology, the Demogorgon was later reimagined in the Middle Ages as a powerful primordial demon, a terrifying entity dwelling in the darkest depths of the underworld ¹. John Milton, in his epic poem Paradise Lost, referred to the Demogorgon as “the dreaded name,” further solidifying its image as a force to be feared ¹.

The Demogorgon’s transition from myth to monster continued with its inclusion in Dungeons & Dragons, the popular tabletop role-playing game. In D&D, the Demogorgon is depicted as a two-headed demon lord, a prince of demons who reigns over chaos and destruction ². This depiction heavily influenced the Demogorgon’s portrayal in Stranger Things, as the show’s creators, the Duffer Brothers, were avid D&D players in their youth.

In Stranger Things, the Demogorgon emerges from the Upside Down, a parallel dimension mirroring our world but shrouded in darkness and decay ³. The kids in the show, also D&D enthusiasts, encounter this terrifying creature and, after a quick check of their Monster Manual, dub it the Demogorgon ². The creature’s appearance is both grotesque and fascinating, with its fleshy, flower-like maw lined with razor-sharp teeth ². The Demogorgon’s hunting methods are a blend of stealth and brute force, as it stalks its prey before snatching them into the Upside Down to meet a gruesome end ².

The Demogorgon’s Life Cycle: A Horrifying Metamorphosis

The Demogorgon’s life cycle in Stranger Things is a chilling example of metamorphosis. It begins as a seemingly harmless slug, resembling a small, black tadpole with a limited ability to move ⁴. This initial stage is almost deceptive, hinting at the horror that lies within.

The slug then evolves into a small reptilian creature called a Dart, short for D’Artagnan ⁴. Dart, with its more defined features and increased mobility, starts to exhibit predatory behavior, showcasing an insatiable appetite that foreshadows its monstrous evolution.

Dart sheds its skin, signaling a horrifying growth spurt, and transforms into a small Demodog, a term coined by Dustin Henderson in the show ⁴. This transformation strips away any remaining semblance of innocence, revealing Dart’s unsettling true nature. The Demodog is a more menacing form with sharp claws and teeth, capable of inflicting significant harm.

The Demodog continues to grow, eventually becoming the towering, terrifying Demogorgon that terrorizes Hawkins ⁴. This final stage is a formidable predator, possessing immense strength and durability. It is a creature of nightmares, capable of tearing its victims apart with its powerful jaws.

Interestingly, the Demogorgon in Stranger Things may be more than just a mindless monster. Some theories suggest it possesses a degree of intelligence and even telekinetic abilities, similar to Eleven ³. This connection between the Demogorgon and Eleven adds another layer of complexity to the creature’s role in the series.

The Demogorgon: More Than Just a Monster?

While the Demogorgon in Stranger Things draws inspiration from its D&D counterpart, there are some key differences in its portrayal. In D&D, the Demogorgon is a powerful, independent demon lord, vying for dominance with other demon lords ⁵. However, in Stranger Things, the Demogorgon appears to be a “puppet” or subservient creature controlled by the Mind Flayer, a more powerful entity residing in the Upside Down ⁵. This difference highlights the Demogorgon’s role as a tool of a greater evil, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the creatures in the Upside Down and the overarching threat they pose to the human world.

The Stranger Things Franchise: Beyond the Screen

The success of Stranger Things has spawned a multimedia franchise that extends beyond the TV show. Fans can immerse themselves in the world of Hawkins through various avenues:

Medium	Title/Description
Comics	Dark Horse Comics has published several comic book series that expand on the Stranger Things storyline, exploring characters and events not fully depicted in the show. Titles include Stranger Things: The Other Side, Stranger Things: Six, and Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons 6.
Novels	A range of novels delve deeper into the characters’ backstories and the mysteries of the Upside Down. Some notable titles include Stranger Things: Suspicious Minds, Stranger Things: Darkness on the Edge of Town, and Stranger Things: Runaway Max 6.
Video Games	Interactive games allow players to experience the world of Stranger Things firsthand, facing dangers and solving puzzles alongside their favorite characters. These include Stranger Things 3: The Game and Stranger Things: The VR Experience 6.
Stage Play	Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a stage play prequel, is currently running in London’s West End and is set to debut on Broadway in March 7.

This expansion into different media demonstrates the enduring popularity of Stranger Things and its ability to engage audiences across various platforms. The franchise’s success can be attributed to several factors, including its 80s nostalgia, compelling characters, and engaging storyline ⁸. Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion, music, and even how we perceive the 1980s.

Friends and Foes: The Inhabitants of Hawkins and the Upside Down

The Stranger Things universe is populated by a memorable cast of characters, both human and monstrous. Here are some of the Demogorgon’s most notable allies and adversaries:

• Eleven: A young girl with psychokinetic powers, Eleven is instrumental in defeating the Demogorgon in Season 1 ². Her connection to the Upside Down and her ability to harness its power make her a formidable opponent. It’s been suggested that Eleven and the Demogorgon are connected in a deeper way, possibly representing two sides of the same coin ³. Both possess telekinetic abilities, and their first encounter occurs when Eleven is telepathically spying on a Russian man, suggesting a link between Eleven’s powers and the Demogorgon’s arrival in Hawkins.
• The Mind Flayer: A powerful entity residing in the Upside Down, the Mind Flayer controls the Demogorgon and other creatures, using them to carry out its sinister plans ⁵. The Mind Flayer acts as a puppet master, manipulating the Demogorgon and other creatures to extend its influence into the human world. This control over the Demogorgon further diminishes its status as an independent entity, contrasting with its traditional depiction as a powerful demon lord.
• Human Characters: The human characters in Stranger Things, including Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, Nancy, Jonathan, and Hopper, play crucial roles in battling the Demogorgon and other threats from the Upside Down. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering friendship are central to the show’s themes.

• Mike, Dustin, and Lucas: These three friends are the first to encounter the Demogorgon and play a key role in helping Eleven understand her powers and fight back against the creature ².
• Nancy and Jonathan: Nancy Wheeler and Jonathan Byers bravely confront the Demogorgon in the woods, armed with everyday weapons like a baseball bat and a camera with a flash ². Their determination to protect their loved ones and uncover the truth about the Demogorgon highlights the courage of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.
• Hopper: Police Chief Jim Hopper, a troubled but ultimately heroic figure, plays a crucial role in investigating the Demogorgon’s attacks and protecting Eleven ⁹. His willingness to put himself in harm’s way to save others demonstrates the power of selflessness and sacrifice.

The dynamic relationships between these characters, both in Hawkins and the Upside Down, drive the narrative and create the compelling drama that defines Stranger Things. The show explores themes of good versus evil, friendship, and sacrifice, with the Demogorgon serving as a catalyst for these explorations.

Jazwares: Bringing the Demogorgon to Life

Jazwares, a toy company owned by Berkshire Hathaway, is a major producer of Stranger Things toys and may be the creator of the Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy. Jazwares is based in Sunrise, Florida, and has a history of developing products inspired by popular entertainment brands, including Pokémon, Hello Kitty, and Star Wars ⁸. Their expertise in translating on-screen characters into tangible toys has allowed them to capture the essence of the Demogorgon in a fun and interactive way.

In addition to the Remote Control Demogorgon, Jazwares has created a wide range of Stranger Things merchandise, including figures, playsets, costumes, and plush toys ⁸. Some examples include:

• Action figures: Jazwares offers a variety of action figures depicting characters like Eleven, Hopper, and the Demogorgon in different outfits and poses ¹⁰.
• Playsets: Fans can recreate iconic scenes from the show with playsets like the Byers’ house or the Starcourt Mall ¹⁰.
• Costumes: Jazwares offers costumes that allow fans to dress up as their favorite characters, such as Eleven’s iconic Season 1 outfit or Steve Harrington’s Scoops Ahoy uniform ¹⁰.
• Plush toys: For those who prefer a softer side to the Upside Down, Jazwares offers plush versions of characters like Eleven, the Demogorgon, and even Dart ¹⁰.

This diverse collection allows fans to express their love for the show and connect with its characters in various ways.

Remote Control Demogorgon: Features and Variations

The Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy brings the fearsome creature to life with exciting features:

• Remote Control Action: The toy can be controlled wirelessly, allowing users to make it move forward and act out scenes from the show ¹¹.
• Light-Up Mouth: The Demogorgon’s signature maw lights up with LEDs, adding to its menacing appearance and enhancing the play experience ¹¹.
• Rechargeable Battery: The Demogorgon figure has a rechargeable battery, ensuring long-lasting fun ¹¹.

While the basic features remain consistent, there may be slight variations in the toy depending on where it is purchased. For example, the size of the figure and the design of the remote control may differ slightly between retailers.

Remote Control Demogorgon: What Fans Are Saying

Reviews and fan feedback on the Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy provide valuable insights into its quality and playability. Here’s what some fans have observed:

• Detailed Design: Many reviewers praise the toy’s attention to detail, capturing the Demogorgon’s monstrous appearance with accuracy ¹². The sculpting of the head, with its open mouth and rows of teeth, is often highlighted as a particularly impressive feature.
• Articulation: While the toy is primarily designed for forward movement, some versions offer a degree of articulation, allowing for different poses and interactions ¹². The arms, legs, and head may have limited movement, but this adds to the toy’s playability.
• Durability: The toy’s construction is generally considered sturdy, capable of withstanding regular play ¹³. However, some reviewers note that the joints can be a bit stiff or squeaky, which might affect the toy’s long-term durability.
• Overall Impression: Despite minor drawbacks, the Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy is generally well-received by fans, offering a fun and interactive way to experience the show’s iconic monster ¹². Its unique features, like the light-up mouth and remote control action, make it a standout toy for Stranger Things enthusiasts.

Where to Buy the Remote Control Demogorgon

The Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy can be found at various online and brick-and-mortar retailers:

• Online Retailers:

• Amazon: Offers a wide selection of Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toys, often with competitive prices and Prime shipping options ¹⁴. You can find both new and used versions, with prices ranging from $20 to $30.
• eBay: Provides a platform for individual sellers and retailers to offer the toy, sometimes with unique variations or rare editions ¹⁵. Prices on eBay can vary significantly, so it’s essential to compare listings and check seller ratings.
• Walmart: Offers the toy through its online platform, often with free shipping on orders over a certain amount ¹⁶. Walmart’s prices are generally competitive, and they may offer bundle deals or discounts on multiple purchases.
• Brick-and-Mortar Stores:

• Five Below: A discount store chain, Five Below offers the Stranger Things Remote Control Demogorgon toy at a significantly lower price point than other retailers ¹¹. However, availability may vary depending on location and stock.
• Toys”R”Us: A classic toy store chain, Toys”R”Us offers a wider selection of Stranger Things merchandise, including the Remote Control Demogorgon ¹⁷. Their prices may be slightly higher than online retailers, but they offer the advantage of seeing the toy in person before purchasing.

When choosing where to buy, it’s essential to compare prices, shipping costs, and availability to ensure the best deal. Consider factors like urgency, desired variations, and the overall shopping experience when making your decision.

The Future of Stranger Things and the Demogorgon

With the final season of Stranger Things on the horizon, fans are eager to see how the story concludes and what the future holds for the franchise. The Duffer Brothers, creators of the show, have hinted at exciting possibilities:

• Stranger Things 5: The final season is expected to be the biggest and most ambitious yet, with each episode likened to a blockbuster movie ¹⁸. It will feature a one-year time jump from the Season 4 finale and promises to be intense and emotional ¹⁹. The Duffers have hinted that Season 5 will delve deeper into the mysteries of the Upside Down, providing answers to long-standing questions and delivering a satisfying conclusion to the characters’ journeys.
• Spin-offs: The Duffer Brothers have confirmed that more Stranger Things stories are in the works ⁷. These include:

• Animated series: An animated series set in the Stranger Things universe is currently in development ⁶. Details about the plot and animation style are still under wraps, but it’s expected to expand the franchise’s reach and introduce new characters and storylines.
• Live-action spin-off: A live-action spin-off with a unique concept is also in the works ⁶. The Duffers have described it as “very, very different” from the main series, sparking curiosity and speculation among fans.

Beyond Stranger Things: The Duffer Brothers’ New Ventures

While the future of Stranger Things is exciting, the Duffer Brothers are also branching out with new projects beyond the Hawkins universe. Through their production company, Upside Down Pictures, they are developing two new series for Netflix:

• The Boroughs: Set in a retirement community, The Boroughs tells the story of a group of misfits who fight an otherworldly evil ²⁰. This concept shares some similarities with Stranger Things, particularly its focus on ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. However, the unique setting and new cast of characters promise a fresh take on the genre.
• Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen: This series follows a bride and groom in the chaotic week leading up to their wedding, exploring the anxieties and dread that can accompany such a significant life event ²⁰. While not directly related to the supernatural or horror genres, this project showcases the Duffers’ versatility and their ability to tell compelling stories across different themes.

These upcoming projects suggest that the world of Stranger Things and the Demogorgon will continue to captivate audiences for years to come. The Duffers’ commitment to quality storytelling and their ability to tap into the zeitgeist ensure that their future endeavors will be eagerly anticipated by fans.

Conclusion

The Demogorgon has become an iconic symbol of the Stranger Things universe, representing the terrifying power of the Upside Down and the challenges faced by the characters. The Remote Control Demogorgon toy allows fans to engage with this iconic creature in a fun and interactive way, bringing a piece of the Upside Down into their own homes. With the final season of Stranger Things approaching and new projects on the horizon, the future of the franchise and the Demogorgon remains bright, promising more thrills, chills, and exciting adventures.What are your thoughts on the Demogorgon and its role in Stranger Things? Have you gotten your hands on the Remote Control Demogorgon toy? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other blog posts for more deep dives into the world of Stranger Things and other pop culture phenomena.

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