#6: E.T. Phone Home
You can’t mention 80s classics without mentioning Spielberg’s E.T. Throughout the series there are many, many references to different parts of the cult classic. Some references are so poignant that you question if Spielberg himself had anything to do with the creation of the show.
First off, in order for Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown, to be appropriately dressed for the outside world, she is given a blonde wig and a frilly dress, similar to what E.T. was given. Not only that, but Stranger Things is pretty much centered on the fact that these kids need to keep this secret creature away from government officials. The way that Mike hides Eleven in his home is rather similar to when Elliot hides E.T.