On New Year’s Eve, Netflix’s beloved series “Stranger Things” concluded after five thrilling seasons and nearly a decade of captivating storytelling. The finale, running over two hours, featured a combination of intense action, heartfelt moments, and an epilogue that looked at life 18 months later for the beloved characters. As fans reflect on the series finale, many are left contemplating what aspects succeeded and which fell short.
One notable strength of the finale was its climactic battle against Vecna, the formidable foe entwined with the Mind Flayer, which took the form of a colossal spider. The intensity of the fight, set in the eerie Abyss, brought together the show’s original group as they fought valiantly. Eleven faced off against Vecna directly, while her friends in the real world wielded an array of weapons, showcasing their growth and enhance skills. Nancy’s fierce demeanor—evoking iconic action heroines—stood out, culminating in Joyce’s dramatic moment when she dealt a fatal blow to Vecna with an axe. This high-stakes confrontation, infused with nostalgia and adrenaline, resonated deeply with audiences.
In contrast, moments preceding the battle felt drawn out. Emotional monologues from Hopper and Eleven about sacrifice, as well as conversations between Jonathan and Steve and Will and Mike, slowed the pacing and offered little new insight. Such dialogue contributed to a sense of redundancy, detracting from the urgency of the situation. While character dynamics are crucial, the lengthy exposition served to halt momentum instead of propel it.
Additionally, the finale drew on the series’ roots by incorporating a game of Dungeons & Dragons, symbolizing the bond the characters maintain despite their personal growth and changing lives. This nostalgic nod showcases their enduring friendship and provides a touching moment as their younger sibling Holly joins in the tradition.
However, not all character arcs received satisfactory closure. Linda Hamilton’s portrayal of Dr. Kay, a military scientist intent on capturing Eleven, was expected to add a thrilling layer to the narrative. Yet her storyline felt underdeveloped, lacking the resolution fans anticipated. After the climactic events, her motivations and subsequent actions appeared perplexing, presenting a missed opportunity for a more engaging conclusion to her arc.
The use of music also played a critical role in the finale’s emotional impact. Iconic tracks like Prince’s “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry” intensified pivotal moments, enhancing the atmosphere and nostalgia. Despite an overly sentimental feel during the epilogue’s lead-in with “Landslide,” the musical choices enriched the viewing experience, aligning well with the show’s 80s aesthetic.
On the other hand, the finale’s ambiguous ending regarding Eleven’s fate left many viewers feeling unsatisfied. The creators intentionally crafted an open-ended conclusion, allowing interpretation about her possible death or survival. While ambiguity can be compelling, in this case, it came across as a narrative shortcut, leaving some plot points seemingly unresolved. The risk of overstretching the characters’ supernatural abilities also raised questions about the reality depicted in those final moments.
Ultimately, as fans process the end of “Stranger Things,” the series remains a significant cultural phenomenon. The combination of gripping battles, heartfelt reflections, and nostalgic ties to the past leaves viewers with memorable experiences. Although not every element resonated perfectly, the underlying themes of friendship and courage throughout the series offer a positive reflection on growth, making it an unforgettable journey for its audience.