Although
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) is referenced throughout the first season, the allusions to the film are at their most prominent in "The Weirdo on Maple Street". The Duffer Brothers (
Matt Duffer and
Ross Duffer) have said: "Just as E.T. is about the connection between E.T. and Elliot, The Weirdo on Maple Street is about the connection between Eleven (
Millie Bobby Brown) and Mike (
Finn Wolfhard)." In the film, Elliot feigns illness to stay home from school and be with E.T. He shows E.T. his toys, including Star Wars figures. Mike does exactly the same, showing her his Yoda figurine. When alone, Eleven explores the Wheeler house, becoming mesmerized by the television; E.T. did the same in Elliot's home.