In a thought-provoking piece featured in The Atlantic, W. David Marx critically examines the current landscape of culture, likening it to a “hoarder’s paradise” overflowing with an overwhelming amount of content. He points out that modern life is inundated with an endless stream of media—including songs, memes, videos, and more—coining the notion that contemporary popular culture thrives on recycling and remaking existing ideas. This can even be observed in the children’s favorite entertainment, such as a meowed version of “Golden” from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters and the baking competition show Is It Cake?, which draws inspiration from viral TikTok trends.
One of the most notable manifestations of this remix culture is the wildly popular series Stranger Things, which burst onto screens nearly nine years ago. The show’s creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, constructed a nostalgic homage to 1980s pop culture by weaving together elements from iconic filmmakers like Spielberg and Hughes to forge a significant entertainment phenomenon. Seen as both a tribute to and a fresh take on the past, the show accompanied by clever marketing strategies, such as product placements and curated Spotify experiences, has evolved into a comprehensive brand rather than just a television series.
As the fifth and final season streams, viewers are witnessing a contrast of both high aspirations and shortcomings. Set in November 1987, with a time jump of 18 months from Season 4, the storyline uncovers Hawkins, now under military quarantine, and features a radio show hosted by fan favorites Robin (Maya Hawke) and Steve (Joe Keery). The series still grapples with the aftershocks of its previous plotlines, but the sheer volume of characters and connections raises issues of pacing and character development.
Mixed with heavy branding and product placements, the season introduces a formulaic structure that prioritizes promotional opportunities over character arcs, leading to a disjointed narrative. The initial episodes follow familiar tropes, filled with nostalgic references and escalating violence, which may leave viewers feeling detached.
While the initial four episodes display a grim atmosphere and joylessness, there is a glimmer of hope for rediscovery in upcoming episodes. Roots of Stranger Things lie in themes of resilience and the triumph of the underdog, resonating in today’s world where genuine connections are often overshadowed by consumerism. If the series can tap back into its emotional core, it might reclaim the charm that endeared it to audiences and offer a more profound experience as it sails into its finale.
As the final chapters unfold, audiences will be watching intently to see if Stranger Things can reignite the magic that made it a cultural phenomenon while navigating the complexities of a changing media landscape.