Gaten Matarazzo Hopes ‘Stranger Things’ Fans Feel Conflicted Over Dustin in Season 5

The character dynamics in “Stranger Things” are evolving significantly as Season 5 progresses. Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin Henderson, hints that fans might feel conflicted about Dustin’s behavior this season. He believes this emotional complexity stems from the character’s grief and its aftermath.

Dustin’s Transformation in Season 5

In Season 5, Dustin is not the cheerful boy fans remember. Instead, he portrays a more somber and angry persona, shaped by the traumatic experience of witnessing Eddie Munson’s death in Season 4. This loss has deeply affected Dustin, altering his relationships and behavior.

• Dustin has adopted Eddie’s style, from long hair to rings and the iconic Hellfire Club shirt.
• He is currently distancing himself from close friends, especially Steve Harrington.

Conflicted Feelings Among Fans

Matarazzo acknowledges that the tension between Dustin and Steve may evoke mixed feelings among viewers. He emphasized wanting this emotional arc to resonate on multiple levels. “I didn’t want it to come across as just ‘Oh, poor him,’” he stated, addressing Dustin’s more self-centered actions amidst his grief.

Consequences of Grief

Throughout Season 5, viewers witness how Dustin’s grief affects his interactions with the group. His struggles become part of a broader narrative, contrasting with characters like Lucas Sinclair, who is coping with Max’s coma in a different way. This comparison highlights that grief manifests uniquely for each character.

The Dustin and Steve Relationship

Dustin’s relationship with Steve takes center stage in Season 5. There are moments of tension that lead to conflict, particularly as they confront their feelings about Eddie’s death. Matarazzo explains how their dynamic impacts their performance, blending moments of genuine humor with conflicts.

• Key scenes showcase Dustin’s internal turmoil while maintaining the comedic undertones typical of their friendship.
• The culmination of their emotional struggle results in a poignant reconciliation that emphasizes the importance of communication in grief.

Filming the Raw Emotion

Matarazzo shares that he approached emotional scenes with a focus on authenticity. He often found himself emotionally prepared only shortly before filming. This method allowed for variation in their takes, from anger to neutrality, resulting in genuine portrayals of their characters’ journeys.

Significance of the Reconciliation Scene

One of the most impactful moments in the season occurs during Dustin and Steve’s reconciliation. Matarazzo felt pressure to convey the depth of their connection appropriately. This scene stands out as a significant turning point, allowing both characters to express their vulnerabilities and re-establish their bond.

Matarazzo concluded that engaging with grief openly is crucial for handling loss healthily. The evolving narrative and character arcs in “Stranger Things” Season 5 promise to be thought-provoking for viewers, encouraging reflections on loss and relationships.

“Stranger Things” Seasons 1 to 5 are currently available for streaming on Netflix, with the finale scheduled to air on December 31 at 8 p.m. ET.