Netflix’s hit series, Stranger Things, has returned for its final season. Suffice to say it was worth the three-year wait. During the 2023 Writer’s Strike, filming for the series was put on hold. I was initially disappointed with the long hiatus and found my enthusiasm for the finale waning. But this first installment restored my hopes for the show. This season has returned to its roots. The atmosphere is back to that of the first season. It has twists that I never saw coming, brings back beloved characters, and its overarching plot leaves me theorizing. This is the Stranger Things that I was on-the-edge-of-my-couch invested in.
Stranger Things has returned to its core in Hawkins. The season follows “The Party” as they try to defeat Vecna once and for all. My biggest complaint with the previous season was that the plotlines felt too seperated. In this season, however, the plotlines are connected through The Squak, a broadcast radio station. This addition is so clever because it once again incorporates music into the plot. Music has been a central motif throughout the show, at one point even saving Max’s life. The most prominent songs of this season are Diana Ross’ “Upside Down” and “I Think We’re Alone Now” by Tiffany.
Although it makes perfect sense for Robin and Steve to host The Squak, both of their characters have been watered down to archetypes. The writers are ignoring Steve’s major character development by having him engage in a petty battle with Jonathan for Nancy’s affection. It was also disappointing to see Robin’s previously spunky personality be replaced with corny one-liners. But this change was not exclusive to just her; for every character, there are lines cheesy enough to pull away from the plot.
However, other central characters have developed immensely. Will Byers, the boy who started it all, has proven to be a truly dynamic character. In the beginning of the show, Will was seen as a weak boy. He struggled with his identity and confidence, but he has finally begun his journey to self-acceptance. Robin and Will’s dynamic is a beautiful depiction of queer solidarity. Robin teaches will about self-acceptance and finding freedom, enabling Will to fight with a strength he has never had before.
The cinematography in the last episode was revolutionary to the show. The final battle is filmed in one shot, creating the feeling of playing a video game. Throughout the season, I was hit by waves of nostalgia. There are multiple moments where the main characters parallel the adults who protected them at the start of the series, making everything come full circle.
Volume I of Stranger Things 5 fulfilled the shocking experience that I expected. I can only eagerly await the next volume and hope to see what happens next. I advise anyone who hasn’t tuned into the cult classic to start it. Finally, to those who are questioning if they should finish the show, it’s an absolutely must. Returning to the story of Hawkins, Indiana feels like coming home. The next three episodes will air on Christmas Day, and the series finale will come out on New Year’s Eve.