Stranger Things Season 5 Review

Introduction

Guys, Stranger Things season 5 is here. I just watched it and sat on a hot seat. I'll just give you some hot opinions.

It was fun. If you can't understand it by looking at my face, it was fun. Although, Netflix's system that we'll release one season in two parts, Stranger Things has been made into three. Because of which, only four episodes of this final season have been released. Not a very huge fan, because they were the ones who started the habit of binge-watching.

Initial Impressions

The journey seen in these four episodes, the setup, the mystery, and the payoff at the end of the fourth episode, it was fun, guys. I feel like I want more. I'm cleaning my eyes because I didn't get time to wake up early in the morning.

How many years have passed since its new episodes were dropped, and I didn't remember much. I know the big important details in small details. But they gave a recap at the start of season 5. The first scene of the first episode feels like a grand finale. All the things from season 1 have been added one by one.

Story Development

The way they're collecting all the threads of the story in this season is impressive. Some threads looked good so far, and some didn’t. We'll get a neatly tied conclusion. We haven't seen the conclusion yet. We've only seen the beginning. From where the will was lost in season 1, date 12th November, 1983. I was like, thank God, all this is happening after India won the World Cup. Even if the world ends, at least we won one World Cup.

Specific Scenes & Highlights

In episode 1, they recreate some scenes from season 1. The way Will Byers de-aged Noah Schnapp, or picked another actor, it was that good.

There was a weird imagery of a dude with tentacles in a kid’s mouth. Very strange, but it sets up the mystery of season 5.

Character Development & Nostalgia

The main characters with kids are now in the fall of 1987. Their beard and moustache are shaved clean, showing how long it took to make this series. Their teenage phase is portrayed well, though Dustin looks lazy.

Dustin and Steve's relationship has hit a rough patch, bickering like before. Some friendly rivalries continue, adding to the nostalgic feel. Nancy’s current and ex, both, have good moments, making the story dynamic.

Hawkins & Military Plot

The military has taken over Hawkins and made a base in the upside-down world. They are hiding something, which we partially see in the last episode. The main group is in Hawkins but living separately and communicating secretly while trying to find Vecna.

The first episode revisits all characters in the same setup, bringing a nostalgic feeling. Erika’s return after two and a half episodes was a highlight. Mike’s mom didn’t appear, which is sad.

Horror Elements & VFX

Stranger Things isn’t a horror series, but jumpscares are present. Nancy comes in the car in episode 3, adding tension. The VFX and overall visuals look very good even after heavy CGI. Episode 3 had a popular character scene that looked a bit weird.

The 80s aesthetics, costumes, and set designs are impressive. Blood and violence are shown in a reasonable amount, especially in episode 4, including soldiers being stabbed in dramatic shots. PG-13 rating still feels intense.

New Characters & References

A new military character, Dr. K, appears. They reference Linda Hamilton from Terminator 1 and 2, adding a nostalgic touch. The setup hints at possible twists and hidden motives for the new characters.

While watching episode 4, there were moments that made me wonder if the new character has a secret connection to someone, adding intrigue.

Setup & Next Episodes

The first four episodes set up the story well. Some characters from season 2 who didn’t look good before have been brought back. The mystery in season 5’s ending is left for future episodes.

Even after handling many characters, everyone has a good role. Someone or the other is doing something in each scene, so no one feels neglected. Steve is alive and there are references to Mission Impossible. Episode 4 feels like a mini-climax, with Vecna’s decision being slightly weird but the payoff amazing.

Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, finally gets a good payoff. The ending still needs to land, which I hope it will.

Conclusion

Overall, Stranger Things season 5 starts strong. The setup, visuals, nostalgia, and suspense are well-handled. Fans of the series will enjoy revisiting Hawkins and the characters they grew up with. Mystery threads, character development, and VFX make it engaging.

The season is emotionally gripping, visually stunning, and full of suspense. Even with only four episodes, it feels like a grand setup for the climax. The writing, character arcs, and nostalgic callbacks ensure fans are hooked.

The story, horror elements, and character relationships are well-balanced. While some moments are intense or weird, it adds to the overall thrill. By the end of episode 4, anticipation for the rest of the season is very high.

Stranger Things season 5 promises to deliver a satisfying conclusion while staying true to its unique 80s aesthetic and nostalgic vibe. It’s definitely a must-watch for fans.