Editorial

The popularity of Eighties television and cinema just seems to keep on growing and growing. This week we are taking a look at what the appeal is from the decade that gave us big hair, shoulder pads and BMX bikes and how it works so well for horror and science fiction movies and shows.

The first season of supernatural drama Stanger Things was a huge hit last year. Set in the Eighties, the show tells the fictional story of a group of children who discover a dark, upside down world that exists alongside them. I won’t spoil anymore for those of you who haven’t seen it yet. I must admit, I was late to the Stranger Things party and when I finally did watch it I completely understood what all the fuss was about. The Eighties is the perfect setting for the show. With no cell phones and no Google maps, the reliance on good old-fashioned house phones and walkie-talkies added to the suspense. The second season was recently released on Netflix.

Also set in the 80s is the biggest movie hit of the year, the adaptation of Stephen King’s clown horror IT. Dead of Summer was a TV show that came out this year featuring a summer camp for teens. The horror series was short-lived, but the Eighties theme was strong.

In other news this week, turn to our Home pages to read about rehabilitation from spinal cord injuries. Most often caused by car accidents or falls, spinal injuries can be very hard to treat. However, with the right treatment plan, and support from loved ones, regaining quality of life after such a horrific injury is possible. Dr Vaqas Farooqi, consultant in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, shares the case of a patient he is treating.