Binged through the show over the weekend as well. Good pacing and 8 episodes felt just right, felt like a really long X-Files episode directed by Spielberg (which was the Duffer brothers' intent I'm sure). With the exception of the young kids, the acting left little to be desired, but the story and intrigue were solid in driving the show. I don't know where they found the girl who plays Eleven but she needs to get signed on to more gigs, thought she was the best of the bunch. Monster design was a bit underwhelming though. Hoping for a second season, not sure if the Duffers will continue this story or pull an American Horror Story or Cloverfield where each effort is different, but I'm not sure the first season has much story left to tell.