While some people were singing carols and wrapping presents, many students found themselves glued to the couch or on the edge of their seats as season five of “Stranger Things” released its final episodes. As the season concluded, opinions quickly surfaced about the ending, sparking critiques and debates across the internet over the conclusion of this nearly decade-long mystery. This article travels into the Upside Down to discuss what worked, what did not, and how SNU students felt about spending their break in Hawkins.
For nearly a decade, “Stranger Things” has been a cultural phenomenon that has continued to grow in popularity. With its nostalgic 1980s theme and dynamic characters that feel like family, the series has captured audiences since its debut. Leading up to the final season, Netflix’s extensive advertising and holiday release timing heightened fans’ anticipation. Now that the ending has been released and viewers are sharing their viewpoints, it is important to explore those reactions and responses, as they shape how “Stranger Things” will ultimately be remembered.
Fans on campus, including students Nick Gonzalez and Jacob Mash, shared their opinions on the series finale. When asked about his initial reaction, Gonzalez said the ending “was unexpected, to say the least.” He pointed to several elements he felt were important, including Nancy and Jonathan’s resolution, the music choices, the emotional performances by the actors and the final scene’s full-circle moment. Gonzalez concluded that he personally thought “the ending was good.”
Mash took a more critical view of the finale, addressing what he believed were its flaws. He said “the biggest things that fell short in the finale were mostly the revelation and execution of the mythology.” He added that “the biggest thing that the Duffer Brothers could have done to improve this is to simply have set things up better.” Mash concluded by acknowledging both positive and negative aspects of the ending, noting that “it didn’t feel like it had as much stakes as it could have,” and that “all of these scripts needed another run through the typewriter to tighten up the overall structure of the season.” Despite his critiques, Mash said his favorite moment was the final scene, explaining that “the final image of them putting away their folders and walking into adulthood will stay with me for a long time.”
As SNU students reflect on their time spent in Hawkins and discussions about the ending continue, “Stranger Things” leaves behind a finale that, whether viewed as good or bad, will undoubtedly be remembered.
Photo credit: “Stranger Things” Season 5 title card, Netflix, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.