Martina Radwan, the director behind the documentary “One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5,” has a unique perspective on the beloved series. When she first met with the Duffer brothers, Matt and Ross, her intent was clear: she wanted to celebrate how the series was crafted while also uncovering their creative journey as “Stranger Things” matured into a cultural phenomenon. Radwan emphasized the importance of showcasing the collaborative nature of filmmaking, especially for a series of this magnitude.
Having moved from Germany to New York City in the mid-1990s, Radwan has had a notable career, winning an Emmy in 2024 and taking on her first documentary feature with “Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow.” She embarked on the “Stranger Things” documentary project in summer 2023, just months before production on the final season began, highlighting how the recent industry strikes had delayed the onset of filming.
Radwan, already an avid fan of “Stranger Things,” took the opportunity to re-watch the series and study everything about the Duffer brothers’ work to prepare for her role in the documentary. She noted, “The scope has grown so much,” while underscoring the essence that remains true to the heart of the show.
Set to premiere on Netflix on January 12, “One Last Adventure” provides an inside look at the making of the highly-anticipated final season, capturing not just the significant events like Will’s revelation of his powers, but also the emotional weight of this concluding chapter. With the show poised to be remembered as an “end of an era,” Radwan reflects on the cultural impact “Stranger Things” has had, especially considering the rise of predominantly computer-generated storytelling in future productions.
While the Duffer brothers are the central figures of the documentary, fans can also hear from the cast, including Millie Bobby Brown, Sadie Sink, and Finn Wolfhard, as they share their personal experiences and thoughts on concluding a show that’s greatly shaped their careers and lives.
Radwan revealed her admiration for the Duffer brothers’ reverence for classic films. The documentary captures not only their unique storytelling techniques but also the coming-of-age experiences of everyone involved in the production, reflecting the evolving nature of creativity in tandem with the changing world around them.
Filming during intense production periods, Radwan explored the creative decision-making process within the writers’ room, showcasing moments that reveal the challenges and considerations inherent in bringing “Stranger Things” to life. The documentary captures pivotal discussions, emphasizing storytelling that prioritizes character development amidst fantastical elements.
With the finale already generating buzz, Radwan expressed her excitement about the communal experience of watching it in theaters. She highlighted the ambivalence of the ending, anticipating audience reactions would evolve over time as viewers reflect on its deeper implications.
As “Stranger Things” comes to a close, Radwan’s documentary serves as a tribute to the entire cast and crew’s journey, encapsulating not only the story within the show but also the friendships and bonds formed throughout its creation. The emotional goodbyes from the crew exemplify the deep connections that developed over the years, marking an important transition as they step away from a story that has resonated with millions worldwide.