NPR Finale: Highlights and Shortcomings Analyzed
On New Year’s Eve, Netflix’s iconic series, *Stranger Things*, concluded after five remarkable seasons and nearly a decade of storytelling. The finale, spanning over two hours, features a climactic battle against Vecna and offers an emotional epilogue set 18 months later.
Highlights from the Finale
- Final Battle: The showdown against Vecna occurred within the Abyss, where the group faced both him and the Mind Flayer.
- Axe-Wielding Moments: Joyce became a standout character, delivering a memorable moment by beheading Vecna with an axe.
- Emotional Connections: The finale reflects the deep connections formed among characters over the years.
Strengths of the Finale
The battle scene showcased thrilling moments, featuring Eleven confronting Vecna while her friends utilized flamethrowers and various weapons against the Mind Flayer. Meanwhile, the inclusion of *Dungeons & Dragons* at the end brought a fitting conclusion by emphasizing the camaraderie among the characters, despite their growth and changing dynamics.
Weaknesses in the Finale
However, the pacing suffered due to excessive dialogue. Extended monologues between characters like Hopper and Eleven felt redundant, detracting from the action’s intensity. Conversations between Jonathan, Steve, Will, and Mike added little to the narrative and interrupted key moments.
Character Developments
- Dr. Kay’s Diminished Role: Played by Linda Hamilton, Dr. Kay was anticipated to have a significant impact but ultimately delivered a lackluster performance in the finale.
- Illegitimate Resolutions: The aftermath of the battle raised questions about the characters’ safety, as the heroes seemed unaffected by previous threats.
Musical Highlights
The use of classic songs like “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry” by Prince lent an epic feel to scenes, highlighting the emotional stakes of the narrative. Although the choice of “Landslide” for the epilogue was somewhat cheesy, it matched the overall tone.
Ambiguous Ending
The conclusion left viewers questioning Eleven’s fate—was she truly dead or simply hiding away? This ambivalence posed a challenge, as it felt like a narrative cop-out that could leave fans frustrated. The creators’ intentions to keep the ending open to interpretation may have diluted its impact.
In summary, while the *Stranger Things* finale had memorable moments and thematic depth, it also faced criticisms for pacing issues and unresolved plot points. As fans reflect on this beloved series, discussions around its execution are destined to continue.
