What is Stranger Things Tales from 85 about and where can you watch it?

All episodes should land at once for the first spin-off set in the Stranger Things universe

The countdown is almost complete for the debut spin-off of one of Netflix’s most popular series.

Limited series ‘Stranger Things: Tales from ’85’ arrives on the platform this week. It marks the first opportunity for audiences to revisit Hawkins and its residents since the main series’ dramatic conclusion, though this outing will differ significantly from what came before.

Firstly, the series is animated, and a completely new ensemble of voice actors will be portraying our beloved characters. It won’t provide closure to lingering questions from the series finale, however, as events unfold during the middle period of Stranger Things’ broader storyline, reports the Mirror.

But what does the spin-off entail? Who comprises the cast, replacing the original performers? And when can episodes be streamed? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 about?

According to the programme’s synopsis, fans are welcomed back to Hawkins for a thrilling new chapter. Set during winter 1985, snow covers the town and the terrors of the Upside Down appear to be receding at last.

Our protagonists – Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max – have returned to ordinary life filled with D&D sessions, snowball battles, and peaceful afternoons. However, something sinister has stirred beneath the frozen surface.

Could it originate from the Upside Down? From within Hawkins Lab? Or from an entirely different source? Our heroes must urgently unravel this puzzle and rescue Hawkins in this fresh tale within the Stranger Things universe.

One aspect still puzzling some fans is its timeline relative to the main series. The events portrayed in Tales from 85 occur between Seasons 2 and 3.

Is the original cast returning for Tales From 85?

Regrettably for devoted viewers, the principal cast are not reprising their roles. Netflix has announced several replacements.

Eleven is voiced by Brooklyn Davey Norstedt, Mike by Luca Diaz, Will by Benjamin Plessala, Dustin by Braxton Quinney, Lucas by Elisha “EJ” Williams, and Max by Jolie Hoang-Rappaport.

Additional voice actors include Alysia Reiner as Karen Wheeler, Alessandra Antonelli as Nancy Wheeler, and Brett Gibson assuming the role of Hopper.

When and where can you watch Tales from 85?

Stranger Things Tales from 85 will comprise 10 episodes in total. In contrast to the final season of the main series, they are anticipated to be released simultaneously rather than in separate instalments.

Netflix arranged special limited cinema screenings for the opening two episodes on 18 April. For all other viewers, the series will arrive on the streaming platform from 23 April.

Stranger Things Tales from 85 is streaming on Netflix from April 23.