When “Stranger Things” premiered on Netflix in 2016, few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become, blending science fiction, mystery and horror into a story that continues to resonate a decade later.
Set in 1980s Hawkins, Ind., “Stranger Things” begins with the disappearance of Will Byers, an event that exposes the existence of the Upside Down, a dark parallel dimension mirroring the town and filled with dangerous supernatural forces.
The events that follow are unexplainable, perhaps never ending.
Three years have passed since “Stranger Things” season 4 premiered, and anticipation for the fifth and final season was intense. On Nov. 25, 2025, when Volume 1 released, Netflix crashed and all focus locked on the TV screen. Four and a half hours later, the ending of episode 4 left me speechless. From the cinematography to performance, every element delivered at a top-tier level.
The first four episodes are set in fall 1987, with Hawkins under quarantine as the Upside Down bleeds into their world. Hopper trains with Joyce while the military searches for Eleven, and Vecna targets 12 kids using psychic abilities. Mike’s younger sister, Holly Wheeler, is the first child to be captured by Vecna disguised as Mr. Whatsit.
The cliffhanger shows Will discovering his own psychic powers in a tense, eerie moment, mentally reaching out to sense Vecna’s presence. The scene stands out with its haunting cinematography. Low, shadowy lighting heightens the sense of danger, tight close-ups capture Will’s fear and concentration, and lingering wide shots of the Upside Down emphasize the otherworldly threat. Noah Schnapp’s performance anchors the moment, conveying both vulnerability and determination.
Emotionally, the season hits hard. Will and Robin share some of the most heartfelt moments as Will comes to terms with his identity, while Mike’s fleeting encounters with Eleven and Jonathan’s hesitant thoughts of proposing to Nancy add real tension and depth.
These arcs make the characters’ struggles feel raw and authentic, giving the story weight beyond its supernatural thrills.
Volume 2, released on Christmas, continues the emotional momentum. Although there are only two episodes, a lot occurs, especially with the exploration of the Upside Down’s origins. While the “science talk” occasionally feels heavy, it reminds viewers “Stranger Things” remains rooted in science fiction.
Emotional moments, particularly among Steve, Dustin, Nancy and Jonathan, allow the characters to confront past trauma and strengthen bonds, with Will’s major confession relating to his true identity in episode 7, standing out as one of the season’s most moving scenes. By openly revealing his feelings, he prevents Vecna from exploiting his secret, adding depth and agency to his character.
The finale delivers a bittersweet conclusion as Vecna is defeated and the group reflects on their journey. A Dungeons & Dragons scene reinforces the show’s core theme of friendship, while the ending leaves viewers with hope from Mike’s epilogue.
The season’s soundtrack enhances these moments, with Prince’s “Purple Rain” underscoring Eleven’s bittersweet experience, Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” accompanying Robin’s reflective monologue, and the Pixies’ “Here Comes Your Man” signaling the transition to the 1990s.
Despite the season’s high points, some storylines feel rushed, and a few arcs lack the closure they deserve. Certain moments unfolded too quickly, leaving the finale feeling slightly compressed.
Yet despite these shortcomings, my love for the show remains. Being a true fan sometimes means appreciating something enough to be honest about its flaws. Furthermore, this final season, while imperfect, still delivers fear, excitement, nostalgia and heart in equal measure.
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