The 'Stranger Things' finale: A Review of What Worked and What Didn't
The popular Netflix show 'Stranger Things' concluded its five-season run on New Year's Eve, marking a significant moment for fans. With the cast now in their 20s, the story of the kids battling monsters had come full circle. The finale, spanning over two hours, featured a final battle, an epilogue, and a lot of preparation. Here's a breakdown of what worked and what didn't.
The Final Battle: A Thrilling Showdown
The climax of the finale was the battle against Vecna, a formidable foe inside the Mind Flayer. Eleven faced off against Vecna, while her friends used various weapons to combat the giant spider. The battle was intense, with Nancy showcasing her skills and a nod to Ripley from the 'Alien' movies. Joyce's axe-wielding moment and the emotional reminder of Vecna's victims added to the drama. This battle was undoubtedly a highlight, leaving viewers satisfied.
Excessive Monologues: A Missed Opportunity
However, the lead-up to the battle had its shortcomings. The show spent too much time on monologues, with Hopper and Eleven expressing their feelings, and Jonathan and Steve having uneventful conversations. These scenes, while emotionally charged, slowed down the pace and could have been more engaging if they were conversations instead. Will and Mike's dialogue also lacked impact, especially after Will's coming-out scene.
Dungeons & Dragons: A Heartwarming Conclusion
The show returned to its roots with a D&D session, symbolizing the group's bond. The kids' enjoyment of each other's company, even without high stakes, was a refreshing change. Passing the game to Holly and her friends, including Derek, was a clever touch, adding depth to the characters.
Dr. Kay's Story: A Disappointing Resolution
Linda Hamilton's character, Dr. Kay, had potential as an '80s action icon, but her storyline fell flat. Her resolution was confusing, and her fate after the battle was left ambiguous. The show could have provided more closure for her character, especially considering her significance in the season.
Prince's Epic Needle Drop
The music choices were impressive, featuring Prince's 'Purple Rain' and 'When Doves Cry'. The Duffer Brothers' decision to use these songs was justified, as they added an epic feel to the finale. The 'Purple Rain' album's weight lent a sense of grandeur to the story, despite the cheesy epilogue.
An Ambiguous Ending: A Controversial Choice
The finale's ending left viewers with a choice: did Eleven die or is she alive? The Duffer Brothers intentionally kept the answer open, but this ambiguity felt like a cop-out. Expanding characters' supernatural abilities can be risky, and the show's ending raised questions about what actually happened. The lack of clarity left room for speculation, but it also felt like a missed opportunity for a satisfying conclusion.
In conclusion, 'Stranger Things' finale had its highs and lows. While the final battle and D&D session were memorable, the excessive monologues and ambiguous ending could have been improved. The show's conclusion left fans with mixed feelings, sparking discussions and debates among the audience.
