Stranger Things: A Great Start, a Predictable Finish

Stranger Things began as a genuinely refreshing entry in the genre, driven more by mystery than nostalgia. The first season worked because it didn’t lean too heavily on ’80s references—it used them as texture, not a crutch. The setup was strong, the world felt intriguing, and the kids’ cast was instantly likable, giving the show a grounded emotional core that made the supernatural elements feel earned.

That early sense of mystery was the show’s biggest strength. There was real tension in not knowing what was happening or how dangerous the Upside Down truly was. The characters felt organic, and their relationships developed naturally, making the stakes feel personal rather than manufactured.

As the series went on, however, the quality noticeably dipped. The writing grew weaker, with several storylines feeling forced or stretched well past their breaking point. What once felt tight and purposeful became bloated, repetitive, and increasingly predictable. Instead of raising the stakes, the show often recycled familiar beats, making danger feel more performative than real.

The final season does have its highs. It’s undeniably bigger and more epic, delivering a handful of genuinely cool moments and set pieces. Some characters also receive a solid sendoff, providing emotional closure that longtime viewers will appreciate. Visually and tonally, the show aims for a grand finale—and occasionally, it lands.

But Stranger Things ultimately ends too late for its own good. By the final season, there are no real stakes left, and the outcome feels telegraphed long before it arrives. Vecna, built up as the ultimate threat, ends up being underwhelming, lacking the impact needed to justify the show’s extended runtime and inflated scope.

In the end, Stranger Things is a show that started strong, with genuine charm and mystery, but gradually lost its edge. What began as a smart, character-driven series became a safer, louder, and more repetitive version of itself—still entertaining in flashes, but far from the standout it once was.