As Netflix gears up for the eagerly awaited conclusion of the Duffer Brothers’ sci-fi phenomenon “Stranger Things,” fans can anticipate the release of the next three episodes of Season 5 on Christmas Day. The grand finale, a two-hour feature, is set to premiere in over 500 theaters on New Year’s Eve, marking the end of a cultural phenomenon that has captivated audiences for nearly a decade.
For fans who have yet to delve into Season 5, a spoiler alert is in order. Actress Cara Buono, who portrays Karen Wheeler, encapsulates the nostalgic essence of suburban life in the 1980s, embodying the trials and tribulations of a homemaker. Buono’s character is known for her quintessential traits— from culinary duties to navigating an unfulfilling marriage, mixing warmth with a hint of vintage charm exemplified by her feathered hairstyle and fondness for white wine.
Throughout much of the series, Karen serves as comic relief, often oblivious to the supernatural events swirling in Hawkins, Indiana. While her children and their friends engage in perilous adventures, Karen personifies the mundane realities of suburban life. Buono reflects on this, noting her character’s role as a “backbone” among homemaker moms, contrasting with the larger arcs defined by power struggles and trauma that others experience.
In a pivotal moment in the second episode of Season 5, Karen’s character is thrust into the spotlight when a Demogorgon invades their home, aiming to abduct her youngest daughter, Holly. The gripping scene, where Karen showcases her fierce maternal instincts by fighting the creature with a wine bottle, marks a defining transformation for her character. Buono reports that fans have expressed deep emotional connections to this moment, emphasizing its resonance with parental instincts during extreme circumstances.
Buono has a rich background in acting, with notable appearances in “Gladiator,” “Law & Order,” and “Mad Men,” along with her role in “Stranger Things.” To enhance her portrayal of Karen, she creates timelines for her characters, grounding their history in the cultural context of the 1980s. The nuances of Karen’s character, including her struggle with alcoholism, add layers of depth, providing an explanation for her obliviousness while simultaneously delivering a powerful moment of heroism.
The setting of the 1980s serves as a crucial backdrop, with political references subtly woven into the narrative—like the “Reagan-Bush 1984” sign outside the Wheeler home, which reflects the family’s socio-political environment. Buono acknowledges the significance of the era, particularly the societal challenges faced by women, as seen through the character of Nancy Wheeler.
Buono feels that her experience on the set has enriched her approach to motherhood, noting her attendance at events for young actor Finn Wolfhard’s band. For her, the bond formed with the cast, many of whom are younger, resembles a familial connection, deepening her emotional investment in her role as a mother onscreen.
With the finale approaching, Netflix is thrilled to partner with theaters for the upcoming screenings on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Fans can locate participating theaters, including AMC and Regal locations, and purchase concession vouchers that serve as tickets. Buono encourages fans to experience the finale in theaters for an immersive movie-like experience, promising it will leave them wanting to relive the details from the comfort of home.