PROS
“Stranger Things” has officially ended, leaving fans of the Netflix series distraught about the theories and plot-packing. However, I loved the ending; it was everything it needed to be without doing too much or too little.
First, regarding camera work and scene directions, I loved how each scene looked. Especially during emotional moments, it felt deliberate and immersive to watch. Close-ups on characters’ faces made everything feel more real, especially during the final episode. The set design during the final battle was also strong. Hawkins and the Upside Down blending together looked messy and broken, which matched how high the stakes were.
The cast still being the same was one of the strongest parts. I liked that the main party of actors were consistent with their traits and behaviors. The main group felt older and more mature, and it showed. Character interactions were emotional without being too cheesy. The small moments, such as quiet talks and final goodbyes, hit harder than the action. To me, it’s about the plot and the slice of life conversations, not about the action.
I also really liked the ending. It reminds me of playing a video game or playing Dungeons and Dragons; you level up the whole game and use all your final powers on the boss fight. It goes smoothly, then, in most games, characters get their endings wrapped up nicely, either good or bad, based on your actions, and the final scenes focus on the main character(s). That is exactly how the last episode felt. The whole season followed a D&D and gaming style, and it worked so well for Stranger Things since it had that retro theme.
Regarding Eleven’s fate, I think she is alive. One of those sonic boom things took her to her knees, but the fact that she was able to stand alone with 5 of them pointing at her hints at the fact that she is an illusion in that moment. That detail felt very intentional. I like that Mike took notice and mentioned her in the ending D&D scene. Speaking of the final D&D scene, the Duffer brothers stated in their interview with Netflix that it was the last scene they filmed, and the last time they are in a room together as those characters, which is raw and beautiful. Overall, the plot ended in a way that felt earned. Not perfect, but satisfying. I enjoyed how every character throughout the last season got a little spotlight or quip side conversation to make sure their ending or new beginning was shown. Although some fans argue they should have gotten more content, what we were given was good, and I enjoyed it overall.
