Had me in so much tears. Such a brilliant end that tugs on the nostalgia heart strings. I was that kid. Great series, great season, great episode. Love it
46 Reviews
Dustin dancing
jon_neal-217 July 2019
Whoa!!!!Best Episode Of The Whole Series so far!!!
judetonynassar18 December 2018
This season of Stranger Things just took over everything on TV this fall...
Aktham_Tashtush27 October 2017
Oh My goodness!! these 9 hours just made 2017 a whole lot better for TV . for me the first couple of episodes started a bit confusing but filled with thrill and mystery but from that point it all picked up to a new plot level of brilliance.
Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer (the writers/creators) seriously outdone themselves the plot this season looks as strong as ever, the episodes become more and more connected to create one hell of masterpiece mosaic .. if this show was created back in the 80's/90's it would've been a TV revolution.
The sequence of events each episode always kept on leaving us with one surprise after another ... I salute them that this season they didn't put all the focus on " Eleven's" character but showed much more of the other characters, they all appeared like lead characters in The struggle of the mighty.,. each character/couple of characters had their own main plot of a "strange thing" that all lead to "Rome".
That kid Noah Schnapp "Will Byers" this season he showed he is one big talent , last season he was just that lost kid, but my !! his facial expression !! his acting and engaging with the scenes was so real. David Harbour "Jim Hopper" was also so good and had his own big bite of the pie ,, same goes for Winona Ryder as "Joyce Byers" and the couple Natalia Dyer and Charlie Heaton as "Nancy and Jonathan"... but overall the whole cast and crew were awesome. Also still love Gaten Matarazzo "Dustin" with his "Son of b!tch" moments .. they were like a breeze of fresh air in all of that tense jumpy events,
A side note, still loving the cinematography and the Amaaazing soundtracks that "in my opinion" surpassed the X-files level.
Final thought, Standing O for every one helped making this artwork and fingers crossed with these next two seasons renewals ,, the level of thrill and mystery will keep on going because i will count them day by day till the next season comes out next year.
Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer (the writers/creators) seriously outdone themselves the plot this season looks as strong as ever, the episodes become more and more connected to create one hell of masterpiece mosaic .. if this show was created back in the 80's/90's it would've been a TV revolution.
The sequence of events each episode always kept on leaving us with one surprise after another ... I salute them that this season they didn't put all the focus on " Eleven's" character but showed much more of the other characters, they all appeared like lead characters in The struggle of the mighty.,. each character/couple of characters had their own main plot of a "strange thing" that all lead to "Rome".
That kid Noah Schnapp "Will Byers" this season he showed he is one big talent , last season he was just that lost kid, but my !! his facial expression !! his acting and engaging with the scenes was so real. David Harbour "Jim Hopper" was also so good and had his own big bite of the pie ,, same goes for Winona Ryder as "Joyce Byers" and the couple Natalia Dyer and Charlie Heaton as "Nancy and Jonathan"... but overall the whole cast and crew were awesome. Also still love Gaten Matarazzo "Dustin" with his "Son of b!tch" moments .. they were like a breeze of fresh air in all of that tense jumpy events,
A side note, still loving the cinematography and the Amaaazing soundtracks that "in my opinion" surpassed the X-files level.
Final thought, Standing O for every one helped making this artwork and fingers crossed with these next two seasons renewals ,, the level of thrill and mystery will keep on going because i will count them day by day till the next season comes out next year.
And that's Season Two binge-watched!
BA_Harrison29 October 2017
The good news is that, after eight episodes of varying quality (although the majority have been great), the final chapter wraps things up brilliantly, with a solid mix of drama, action, danger, and even romance. It's everything I had hoped it would be.
The Gate starts with Eleven's timely arrival at the Byers house, to the surprise of those inside, especially Mike, who is angry when he learns where she has been for the past year. Eleven's appearance means that there is a chance that the gate between our dimension and the upside-down can be sealed, but to do so the Shadow Monster must first be forced out of Will, and the demodogs lured away from the lab.
Highlights of this season's closer include a tense fist fight between Max's nasty stepbrother Billy (Dacre Montgomery) and Steve, the expulsion of the Shadow Monster (shades of The Exorcist), and the scenes inside the tunnels as Steve and the kids play their part in defeating the evil that has been plaguing the town of Hawkins. Best of all is the epilogue, which sees the boys and girls attending the Christmas ball at their school: I'm not usually one for the sappy stuff, but seeing the characters developing relationships and enjoying themselves is heartwarming stuff.
All told, I liked this season even more than the last. The wait for Season Three is going to be a long one.
The Gate starts with Eleven's timely arrival at the Byers house, to the surprise of those inside, especially Mike, who is angry when he learns where she has been for the past year. Eleven's appearance means that there is a chance that the gate between our dimension and the upside-down can be sealed, but to do so the Shadow Monster must first be forced out of Will, and the demodogs lured away from the lab.
Highlights of this season's closer include a tense fist fight between Max's nasty stepbrother Billy (Dacre Montgomery) and Steve, the expulsion of the Shadow Monster (shades of The Exorcist), and the scenes inside the tunnels as Steve and the kids play their part in defeating the evil that has been plaguing the town of Hawkins. Best of all is the epilogue, which sees the boys and girls attending the Christmas ball at their school: I'm not usually one for the sappy stuff, but seeing the characters developing relationships and enjoying themselves is heartwarming stuff.
All told, I liked this season even more than the last. The wait for Season Three is going to be a long one.
Very Well Resolved Conclusion
claudio_carvalho6 January 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Eleven returns Joyce´s house and the Demogorgons vanish. Joyce, Jonathan, and Nancy expel the shadow monster from Will using heat. Meanwhile Eleven and Hopper go to the Hawkins Laboratory to close the Gate. Dustin, Lucas, Mike and Max decide to create a distraction to help Eleven and Hopper burning the tunnels, but Steve does not want to go. However Billy arrives at the house seeking out Max and beats Steve that is unconscious. But the kids sedate Billy and they use his car to head to the tunnels. They soak the spot with gasoline and burn the tunnels and the Demogorgons leave the gate as they planned.
"Chapter Nine: The Gate" is a great conclusion of "Stranger Things" with a very well resolved episode. Eleven now is Hopper´s daughter since Dr. Owens forged a birth certificate for her. The Gate to the Upside Down is closed. The Hawkins Laboratory is shutdown and Barb´s parents are able to give a funeral to their daughter thanks to Murray Bauman´s plan that worked. But the best moment is Nancy´s attitude dancing with Dustin in the Snow Ball. My vote is ten.
Title (Brazil): "Chapter Nine: The Gate"
"Chapter Nine: The Gate" is a great conclusion of "Stranger Things" with a very well resolved episode. Eleven now is Hopper´s daughter since Dr. Owens forged a birth certificate for her. The Gate to the Upside Down is closed. The Hawkins Laboratory is shutdown and Barb´s parents are able to give a funeral to their daughter thanks to Murray Bauman´s plan that worked. But the best moment is Nancy´s attitude dancing with Dustin in the Snow Ball. My vote is ten.
Title (Brazil): "Chapter Nine: The Gate"
Season Two
zkonedog3 July 2019
After the rousing success of the original slate of episodes, I was very, very interested to see how "Stranger Things" could/would respond with their second go-round. To me, this seemed like a show that could very easily have been a "one-hit wonder". The Duffer brothers proved me wrong, however, as I actually enjoyed this sophomore effort even more than the original!
I don't want to talk too in-depth about the plot (for fear of spoilers), but "Stranger Things 2" is set around Halloween about a year after Will (Noah Schnapp) is rescued from the Upside Down. Of course (as hinted at in the S1 final scene), Will is not exactly free and clear from that experience, and that is what sets the stage for the primary plot events of S2. When it becomes clear that Will still isn't right (and strange things still keep cropping up in Hawkins), the gang of Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) are on the case again. And remember those Eggos in the woods? Obviously, something is going on with Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Hopper (David Harbour).
Remarkably, this second season is able to succeed because it doesn't re-invent the wheel. The formula set in place from the first season is so strong that by-and-large it still works here. Just enough elements are changed up to keep things fresh and moving forward.
A lot of credit for that has to be given to some new cast members. A sister/brother duo of Mad Max (Sadie Sink) and Billy (Dacre Montgomery) provide some of the best acting of the season, while Hawkins Lab Dr. Owens (Paul Reiser) and new love interest for Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder), Bob Newby (Sean Astin), is a great new character too. All these new additions fit in seamlessly and keep things from ever feeling stale.
One underrated aspect I haven't even mentioned yet was the great chemistry between Nancy (Natalia Dyer) and her potential beaus Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) & Steve (Joe Keery). Some of the most hilarious (and poignant) moments come from the interactions between these characters this season.
Of course, let me make one thing clear: "Stranger Things 2" isn't groundbreaking television by any means. It's a very different style from, say, shows like "The Leftovers" or "Westworld" over on HBO. While those other shows may push the boundaries and radically experiment with the medium, "Stranger Things" knows it has a wonderful formula and (for the most part) knows how to expertly execute it. In fact, the only misstep this season was one single episode that focuses on Eleven throughout. That didn't work, because this show needs the ensemble cast interacting together to really work at all.
Overall, though, I enjoyed watching "Stranger Things 2" even more than its predecessor. It builds on its own success perfectly, and the acting/atmosphere is so engaging that one can't help but clicking "Next Episode" sooner than later. The season ends just ambiguously (and perfectly) enough to tease future installments, and I'll be all in if/when they appear!
I don't want to talk too in-depth about the plot (for fear of spoilers), but "Stranger Things 2" is set around Halloween about a year after Will (Noah Schnapp) is rescued from the Upside Down. Of course (as hinted at in the S1 final scene), Will is not exactly free and clear from that experience, and that is what sets the stage for the primary plot events of S2. When it becomes clear that Will still isn't right (and strange things still keep cropping up in Hawkins), the gang of Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) are on the case again. And remember those Eggos in the woods? Obviously, something is going on with Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Hopper (David Harbour).
Remarkably, this second season is able to succeed because it doesn't re-invent the wheel. The formula set in place from the first season is so strong that by-and-large it still works here. Just enough elements are changed up to keep things fresh and moving forward.
A lot of credit for that has to be given to some new cast members. A sister/brother duo of Mad Max (Sadie Sink) and Billy (Dacre Montgomery) provide some of the best acting of the season, while Hawkins Lab Dr. Owens (Paul Reiser) and new love interest for Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder), Bob Newby (Sean Astin), is a great new character too. All these new additions fit in seamlessly and keep things from ever feeling stale.
One underrated aspect I haven't even mentioned yet was the great chemistry between Nancy (Natalia Dyer) and her potential beaus Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) & Steve (Joe Keery). Some of the most hilarious (and poignant) moments come from the interactions between these characters this season.
Of course, let me make one thing clear: "Stranger Things 2" isn't groundbreaking television by any means. It's a very different style from, say, shows like "The Leftovers" or "Westworld" over on HBO. While those other shows may push the boundaries and radically experiment with the medium, "Stranger Things" knows it has a wonderful formula and (for the most part) knows how to expertly execute it. In fact, the only misstep this season was one single episode that focuses on Eleven throughout. That didn't work, because this show needs the ensemble cast interacting together to really work at all.
Overall, though, I enjoyed watching "Stranger Things 2" even more than its predecessor. It builds on its own success perfectly, and the acting/atmosphere is so engaging that one can't help but clicking "Next Episode" sooner than later. The season ends just ambiguously (and perfectly) enough to tease future installments, and I'll be all in if/when they appear!
So good!
maximovlE6 June 2021
I presume this show is aimed at a younger audience but there's a 70s kid here loving it. So many shows these days are so dark and 'dramatic' and yet this show .. it keeps the suspense and the drama but throws it in with some laughs and happy moments.
What a great ending to a series, or season for our American friends. Excellent character building, excellent relationship building, and a just an all round great finale. So good to end on a high, all ready for the next series of stranger events. I can't wait! So I won't, I'll watch it now!! :)
What a great ending to a series, or season for our American friends. Excellent character building, excellent relationship building, and a just an all round great finale. So good to end on a high, all ready for the next series of stranger events. I can't wait! So I won't, I'll watch it now!! :)
Once again this show does pay-off really well!
and_mikkelsen21 June 2022
This episode was a great conclusion to the second season! Though there were some bumps on the way, i enjoyed this season! I would not consider it quite as good as season 1, but it was still a great ride!
This episode concludes the character arcs and plotlines in a satisfying way! The actors are still doing a great job, espacially the actor who plays Will! I think he is the best of the child actors, and has the most impactfull scenes this season!
The ball was a great way to end the episode after all the dark, sad and disturbing stuff!
This episode concludes the character arcs and plotlines in a satisfying way! The actors are still doing a great job, espacially the actor who plays Will! I think he is the best of the child actors, and has the most impactfull scenes this season!
The ball was a great way to end the episode after all the dark, sad and disturbing stuff!
An Incredible Conclusion to the Superb Season!
imranfarid-8381123 January 2018
Absolutely Incredible! Just a magnificent conclusion to an enticing season.
By the time, the ending credits rolled, I am amazed by how much the scale and conflict has been risen this year. And unlike the former season's heartbreaking ending, this time, we got a much more happier and satisfying epilogue.
The VFX team did a spectacular job making the Demogorgon and the Shadow Monster to look and feel much more menacing and dangerous, because seeing the Demodogs raining down as the Gate is closed by Eleven looks mind-blowing. The main cast was also so captivating to watch, especially, David Harbour as Jim Hopper and Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven made a great duo, though Mike, Dustin, Mrs. Byers, Will, Steve and the others were also superb. By the end, we also got a fulfilled promise of Mike made at the end of Season 1 to see the Snow Ball event on-screen.
Absolutely Hyped for Season 3!
The VFX team did a spectacular job making the Demogorgon and the Shadow Monster to look and feel much more menacing and dangerous, because seeing the Demodogs raining down as the Gate is closed by Eleven looks mind-blowing. The main cast was also so captivating to watch, especially, David Harbour as Jim Hopper and Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven made a great duo, though Mike, Dustin, Mrs. Byers, Will, Steve and the others were also superb. By the end, we also got a fulfilled promise of Mike made at the end of Season 1 to see the Snow Ball event on-screen.
Absolutely Hyped for Season 3!
Keep the gate open
TheLittleSongbird15 February 2022
Season 2 on the whole was a very good season, as good as the previous in my view. It started off a little slow but still quite impressively and got better and better the more the mystery, atmosphere, character development and such built. Disappointing only with "Chapter Seven: The Lost Sister", which was the worst and only below good episode up to that stage of 'Stranger Things'. And with the best episodes being absolutely brilliant and show high points.
Of which Season 2's finale "Chapter Nine: The Gare" is one of them. What a way to finish and on the same level as the brilliant season finale of Season 1. It is also one of the best, most exciting and most intense 'Stranger Things' episodes, that builds upon what the rest of Season 2 showed, progressed both the mystery and the characters to gut wrenching and intriguing effect. It is certainly enough to make one intrigued into seeing the next season, which sadly to me wasn't anywhere near as strong as 1 and 2.
Everything is superb in "Chapter Nine: The Gate". The production values are superb. Very stylish and atmospheric, with some truly beautiful images that one can't believe such high quality comes from a Netflix show. Not to mention the highly impressive special effects that put a good deal of big budget films in recent years to shame. The music has a wonderful 80s nostalgic vibe while also being quite haunting, enhancing the atmosphere beautifully.
Also incredibly impressive is the beautifully balanced writing. That has a lot of thought and intrigue, with the usual brains and heart. The storytelling is tremendously engaging, atmospheric and never simplistic or convoluted. Loved the intimate and un-noisy relationship writing and the episode also shines in the suspenseful and intense action. Especially the showdown and the ending, which resolves itself beautifully. It is rich in affectionate nostalgia (reminiscent of Stephen King's depiction of childhood), poignant emotional impact and suspenseful turns in the more mysterious elements.
"Chapter Nine: The Gate's" character writing is spot on. As is the acting, children and adults with no exceptions or weak links.
Really wonderful end to a very good season. 10/10.
Of which Season 2's finale "Chapter Nine: The Gare" is one of them. What a way to finish and on the same level as the brilliant season finale of Season 1. It is also one of the best, most exciting and most intense 'Stranger Things' episodes, that builds upon what the rest of Season 2 showed, progressed both the mystery and the characters to gut wrenching and intriguing effect. It is certainly enough to make one intrigued into seeing the next season, which sadly to me wasn't anywhere near as strong as 1 and 2.
Everything is superb in "Chapter Nine: The Gate". The production values are superb. Very stylish and atmospheric, with some truly beautiful images that one can't believe such high quality comes from a Netflix show. Not to mention the highly impressive special effects that put a good deal of big budget films in recent years to shame. The music has a wonderful 80s nostalgic vibe while also being quite haunting, enhancing the atmosphere beautifully.
Also incredibly impressive is the beautifully balanced writing. That has a lot of thought and intrigue, with the usual brains and heart. The storytelling is tremendously engaging, atmospheric and never simplistic or convoluted. Loved the intimate and un-noisy relationship writing and the episode also shines in the suspenseful and intense action. Especially the showdown and the ending, which resolves itself beautifully. It is rich in affectionate nostalgia (reminiscent of Stephen King's depiction of childhood), poignant emotional impact and suspenseful turns in the more mysterious elements.
"Chapter Nine: The Gate's" character writing is spot on. As is the acting, children and adults with no exceptions or weak links.
Really wonderful end to a very good season. 10/10.
A Perfect Season Finale
ououzaza28 September 2019
Still good, but the greatness-factor is declining
alex-wolf-240831 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Having finished Chapter Nine: The Gate yesterday evening, I just must write my first review on IMDb ever, as the other reviewers in my opinion speak too unreflected of the past nine (or better: only eight of the nine; we're all on the same page when it comes to Ep. 7) episodes. In direct comparison, Season 2 of Stranger Things for me can't keep up with the greatness of the first season. It is indeed eight hours of very well-written and superbly acted television, with awesome CGI and a very pleasing setting. But still, it fell short against my (admittably very high) expectation. Why, you ask?
S01 was a clear 10/10, no discussion. Watching it brought back memories I got in the back of my head, more like the memory of a feeling than a real memory. That means that the show runners achieved something really great: they were able to set up a real connection with (parts of) the audience, mostly those who grew up in or at least with the pop culture of the Eighties. All those viewers too young for this at least get a lot of Easter Eggs and nods of the head to the era. So there's something in it for everybody, which explains the overall ratings of the show.
The success and relatability was mainly driven by the main character, Eleven. The combination of her almost toddler-ish innocence with the raw and unpredicitve strength she inherited was very much appealing. Millie Bobby Brown played her character so well that one just has to like her. That in combination with an awesome cast and top-notch performances of her fellow actors, especially the four boys, created an almost perfect first season. In Season 2 however, the powerful but innocent child Eleven has become a pre-puberting teen which is very well aware of her powers. The innocence is gone to most degree, replaced by anger and a little self-pity. This makes her, in my humble opinion, less likable and also less relateable - and with her the whole show. The height of this story arc is her find-to-your-senses-Episode "The Lost Sister", after which she returns to the group being nothing short of an X-Girl. It may be understandable from a writer's point of view, still I find it unfortunate for the overall feeling of the show.
The second main character of S01, Mike, is sidelined more or less completely this second season, only to have a little screen time with notable impact in the last two episodes. Instead, two new and not very well placed characters are forced in (Max and Billy, I think; not even the name sunk in). I hope they get some development next season and also at least some 'dark past and secrets' - right now they are both quite boring "teens with troubled family" stuff. I hope that future episodes will find the right balance again and bring back the main cast. Hopefully, also Finn and Millie develop some chemistry...
I am afraid that Netflix will, due to the success of the first two seasons, order many more, comparable to the fate e.g. The Walking Dead is suffering (again: only my opinion; one might as well say "be lucky to have"). As every installment will need to beat it's predecessor in terms of CGI, boss battles and so on, we might see a development as there was with the Iron Man movies (One: awesome; Two: still good, but...; Three: CGI-galore-meh). I really hope I am wrong and the Duffer Brothers find back to the perfect pitch of Season 1.
S01 was a clear 10/10, no discussion. Watching it brought back memories I got in the back of my head, more like the memory of a feeling than a real memory. That means that the show runners achieved something really great: they were able to set up a real connection with (parts of) the audience, mostly those who grew up in or at least with the pop culture of the Eighties. All those viewers too young for this at least get a lot of Easter Eggs and nods of the head to the era. So there's something in it for everybody, which explains the overall ratings of the show.
The success and relatability was mainly driven by the main character, Eleven. The combination of her almost toddler-ish innocence with the raw and unpredicitve strength she inherited was very much appealing. Millie Bobby Brown played her character so well that one just has to like her. That in combination with an awesome cast and top-notch performances of her fellow actors, especially the four boys, created an almost perfect first season. In Season 2 however, the powerful but innocent child Eleven has become a pre-puberting teen which is very well aware of her powers. The innocence is gone to most degree, replaced by anger and a little self-pity. This makes her, in my humble opinion, less likable and also less relateable - and with her the whole show. The height of this story arc is her find-to-your-senses-Episode "The Lost Sister", after which she returns to the group being nothing short of an X-Girl. It may be understandable from a writer's point of view, still I find it unfortunate for the overall feeling of the show.
The second main character of S01, Mike, is sidelined more or less completely this second season, only to have a little screen time with notable impact in the last two episodes. Instead, two new and not very well placed characters are forced in (Max and Billy, I think; not even the name sunk in). I hope they get some development next season and also at least some 'dark past and secrets' - right now they are both quite boring "teens with troubled family" stuff. I hope that future episodes will find the right balance again and bring back the main cast. Hopefully, also Finn and Millie develop some chemistry...
I am afraid that Netflix will, due to the success of the first two seasons, order many more, comparable to the fate e.g. The Walking Dead is suffering (again: only my opinion; one might as well say "be lucky to have"). As every installment will need to beat it's predecessor in terms of CGI, boss battles and so on, we might see a development as there was with the Iron Man movies (One: awesome; Two: still good, but...; Three: CGI-galore-meh). I really hope I am wrong and the Duffer Brothers find back to the perfect pitch of Season 1.
S2: Bigger, and entertaining show, but loses a bit of the spark as it scales up
bob the moo26 December 2017
After the success of the first season, the return of Stranger Things was a big event with lots of hype, and lots of internet chatter all across the days after it was fully available to watch. I was a bit slower to pick it up and watch it, but it was one I was looking forward to, because despite some flaws, I did enjoy the first season. This season returns bigger, but not necessarily better. The scale of the threat is increased, and the show plays with its additional resources very well; more creatures, more horror elements, more polish, and a lot more delivery in the effects department.
It does all this with a plot that to be fair, does build on the events of the previous season. It does so in a way that mostly makes sense, but yet keeps a lot of the same elements from the first season. In doing so it is entertaining and will please fans, but at the same time it is hard not to feel like it lost a bit of spark - almost like they didn't know how to specifically develop that element, so they just went ahead and made everything else bigger. This is in no way to say the second season is no good (it is good), but just that it is not quite as good as the first one. The plot is also part of that though, and there are some elements and conveniences that don't quite work, and they serve to sap the energy and spark a bit. The cast are consistently good though - all playing their roles well in a way that fits not so much the period, but rather the movie/nostalgia version of that period, while also being able to work as characters in their own right. Of the additions, I enjoyed Reiser's casting the most since so much of this season felt like Aliens already.
All told, Stranger Things 2 is a very enjoyable bit of television, that is bigger than the first season, even if it is not better. The spark is a bit lost, but there is plenty still there, and lots to enjoy despite some of it not working, or feeling like it could have hit its marks better.
It does all this with a plot that to be fair, does build on the events of the previous season. It does so in a way that mostly makes sense, but yet keeps a lot of the same elements from the first season. In doing so it is entertaining and will please fans, but at the same time it is hard not to feel like it lost a bit of spark - almost like they didn't know how to specifically develop that element, so they just went ahead and made everything else bigger. This is in no way to say the second season is no good (it is good), but just that it is not quite as good as the first one. The plot is also part of that though, and there are some elements and conveniences that don't quite work, and they serve to sap the energy and spark a bit. The cast are consistently good though - all playing their roles well in a way that fits not so much the period, but rather the movie/nostalgia version of that period, while also being able to work as characters in their own right. Of the additions, I enjoyed Reiser's casting the most since so much of this season felt like Aliens already.
All told, Stranger Things 2 is a very enjoyable bit of television, that is bigger than the first season, even if it is not better. The spark is a bit lost, but there is plenty still there, and lots to enjoy despite some of it not working, or feeling like it could have hit its marks better.
that was great
theteamavengers1 November 2020
Raiders of Hell
hellraiser714 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Warning do not read unless seen episode.
Once again, the show finishes strong as it has another season finale that is another of my favorite of all time, by once again doing what all good season finales should do, payoff to what it's been building up toward.
There are some really touching moments in the beginning. Really love the reunion we see between both Mike and El which was just beautiful, just seeing both come to each other and interact again for the first time in a long time was beautiful. Even like Hopper with both Mike and El. Mike of course is angry with Hopper and has a right to be, having El out of his life for so long and worst of all his friend lying to him. Hopper though isn't proud of what he's done, he though he was doing the right thing but he's not so sure anymore. And of course, Mike is letting some steam out and then both hug, which to me was Hopper way of saying "I'm sorry I fraked up."
And as both El and Hopper are heading toward their objective, both have a good talk down. Where Hopper admits to El he fraked up. I do understand his position, how some of the trauma of losing his daughter contributed and his has many good reasons for protecting El, and that anyone can be overprotective when it comes to friends and loved ones. But overprotection is never good for the people your protecting nor is it good for the protectors, because truth of the matter is, we can't protect them nor ourselves from life. Even El admits she fraked up a little to as she hasn't always made things easier for him. Really like it when both held hands in the end of the conversation which showed that things between them are good again and that things from now on are going to be different.
The final conflict was well done, we saw all three Strange Raider groups each doing their jobs to sever the connects or destroy the Hive Mind.
From Raider Group 1: Joyce, Johnathan, and Nancy they are performing an Exorcism on Will at El and Hopper's cabin. There was just heavy intensity which is reflected from the amount of heat their emitting which is palpable as you see Joyce, Johnathan, and Nancy sweating like hogs, made me feel the heat looking at them.
I almost couldn't help but be on the edge of my seat as we see Joyce forced to turn up the heat, from the intensity and emotion on her face you see she is hellbent on drawing the Hive Mind entity out of her son and Johnathan is concerned about killing Will in the process and is trying to stop it, just like Joyce I'm thinking "no don't stop!" which you shouldn't in an exorcism; I honestly understand his concern but it's the only way to fight and save Will's soul. We of course see it works, the heat is too much for the entity and it flies out, we see a touching scene with Joyce and Johnathan getting Will back once again.
Raider Group 2: Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Max and Steve their objective is to go back to the tunnels, get to the center and incinerate it to draw away most of the Demi Dogs away from El and Hopper, buying them time for them to do what they need to. We see an obstacle they must get past before they go out which is Max's psycho stepbrother.
Really liked seeing Lucas as this psycho was threatening and about to physically attack him, Lucas kneecaps him. Then Steve delivers his set of punches on him, and we see the psycho just laughing his ass off, I knew he was probably holding back a bit but maybe also just gets a sick kick from getting hit.
We then unfortunately see the fight turn around not in Steve's favor, but this leads to a great moment when we see Max, she gets the heavy sedative and then sticks her psycho step brother in the neck with it. He starts to go night night, but before that happens she gets a bat and there is a moment that sort of reminds me a little of the scene in "Bloodsport" just like Dux gets Chang to say Mata, she get him to back off and trust me he better back off or the next swing won't miss. I loved that that was just bad ass and felt so good, he had it coming, but most importantly shows she not taking his crap anymore.
It's also really cool and funny when we see her jack his car and she drives surprisingly well though not perfectly as she's going real fast, man she must be really good at the video game "Pole Position". But of course, we see all of them get to work and it's suspenseful as they are traversing the caves, trying to get to the center on time but also staying alert for any hidden dangers. Really like a couple of the close calls which really put me in suspense.
Raider Group 3: Eleven and Hopper their business in the facility was suspenseful as well, straightforward stuff seeing both of them sneak into the facility to get where they need to be. Hopper of course is providing cover for El, seeing his shoot some of the Demi Dogs. But of course, it was El's using her scanner powers that was cool.
Just seeing her levitate and give her scanner power her all, that look of pure fury on her face, even seeing some of that fire color throughout most of the area I was thinking, yeah this is the Phenix force. Well sort of but at least it was portrayed and looked better in this show where in "X-Men: The Last Stand" and "Dark Phenix" it looked like crap, and that two strikes for that franchise that's just sad. Also, I wouldn't mind seeing Mille when she gets older play Jean Grey when they make an revival to the "X-Men" film franchise somewhere along the line, heck her character is a little like that character.
We then get down to the final minutes which are just all-around sweetness and is sort of the payoff we've waited a long time for, the Snowball dance. We see the characters dance with the right people from Lucas with Max, along with Will and some girl so it looks like he's got some magnetism.
Really liked Dustin whom has a hairstyle that makes him look like Huey Lewis at the time, which makes sense as Huey Lewis was big in the 80's. But it's really sad when we see as he makes an effort to ask girls out, each one doesn't want to dance with him but worst of all put on the damn mean girl routine by snubbing him, sad thing about that scene is things like that still happen. It was great when Nancy comes and dances with Dustin, really likes what she says to him and she's right they really don't know who their missing out on; this gives Dustin hope that he can have a girl in his life and she's out there, which I feel this is a partial set up for in next season which would be more than fair as two of his friends Lucas and Mike now have significant others so why not him.
The best part though for me was when El she comes to the dance and she is in a dress with her hair all grown and you saw that look on Mike's face, then both of them dancing and even kiss each other it was just absolutely beautiful, after everything both have been though, from this moment of their lives you knew it was all worth the wait.
However, by the end while the Strange Raiders are celebrating, the Army's of Darkness are plotting.
Rating: 4 stars
Once again, the show finishes strong as it has another season finale that is another of my favorite of all time, by once again doing what all good season finales should do, payoff to what it's been building up toward.
There are some really touching moments in the beginning. Really love the reunion we see between both Mike and El which was just beautiful, just seeing both come to each other and interact again for the first time in a long time was beautiful. Even like Hopper with both Mike and El. Mike of course is angry with Hopper and has a right to be, having El out of his life for so long and worst of all his friend lying to him. Hopper though isn't proud of what he's done, he though he was doing the right thing but he's not so sure anymore. And of course, Mike is letting some steam out and then both hug, which to me was Hopper way of saying "I'm sorry I fraked up."
And as both El and Hopper are heading toward their objective, both have a good talk down. Where Hopper admits to El he fraked up. I do understand his position, how some of the trauma of losing his daughter contributed and his has many good reasons for protecting El, and that anyone can be overprotective when it comes to friends and loved ones. But overprotection is never good for the people your protecting nor is it good for the protectors, because truth of the matter is, we can't protect them nor ourselves from life. Even El admits she fraked up a little to as she hasn't always made things easier for him. Really like it when both held hands in the end of the conversation which showed that things between them are good again and that things from now on are going to be different.
The final conflict was well done, we saw all three Strange Raider groups each doing their jobs to sever the connects or destroy the Hive Mind.
From Raider Group 1: Joyce, Johnathan, and Nancy they are performing an Exorcism on Will at El and Hopper's cabin. There was just heavy intensity which is reflected from the amount of heat their emitting which is palpable as you see Joyce, Johnathan, and Nancy sweating like hogs, made me feel the heat looking at them.
I almost couldn't help but be on the edge of my seat as we see Joyce forced to turn up the heat, from the intensity and emotion on her face you see she is hellbent on drawing the Hive Mind entity out of her son and Johnathan is concerned about killing Will in the process and is trying to stop it, just like Joyce I'm thinking "no don't stop!" which you shouldn't in an exorcism; I honestly understand his concern but it's the only way to fight and save Will's soul. We of course see it works, the heat is too much for the entity and it flies out, we see a touching scene with Joyce and Johnathan getting Will back once again.
Raider Group 2: Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Max and Steve their objective is to go back to the tunnels, get to the center and incinerate it to draw away most of the Demi Dogs away from El and Hopper, buying them time for them to do what they need to. We see an obstacle they must get past before they go out which is Max's psycho stepbrother.
Really liked seeing Lucas as this psycho was threatening and about to physically attack him, Lucas kneecaps him. Then Steve delivers his set of punches on him, and we see the psycho just laughing his ass off, I knew he was probably holding back a bit but maybe also just gets a sick kick from getting hit.
We then unfortunately see the fight turn around not in Steve's favor, but this leads to a great moment when we see Max, she gets the heavy sedative and then sticks her psycho step brother in the neck with it. He starts to go night night, but before that happens she gets a bat and there is a moment that sort of reminds me a little of the scene in "Bloodsport" just like Dux gets Chang to say Mata, she get him to back off and trust me he better back off or the next swing won't miss. I loved that that was just bad ass and felt so good, he had it coming, but most importantly shows she not taking his crap anymore.
It's also really cool and funny when we see her jack his car and she drives surprisingly well though not perfectly as she's going real fast, man she must be really good at the video game "Pole Position". But of course, we see all of them get to work and it's suspenseful as they are traversing the caves, trying to get to the center on time but also staying alert for any hidden dangers. Really like a couple of the close calls which really put me in suspense.
Raider Group 3: Eleven and Hopper their business in the facility was suspenseful as well, straightforward stuff seeing both of them sneak into the facility to get where they need to be. Hopper of course is providing cover for El, seeing his shoot some of the Demi Dogs. But of course, it was El's using her scanner powers that was cool.
Just seeing her levitate and give her scanner power her all, that look of pure fury on her face, even seeing some of that fire color throughout most of the area I was thinking, yeah this is the Phenix force. Well sort of but at least it was portrayed and looked better in this show where in "X-Men: The Last Stand" and "Dark Phenix" it looked like crap, and that two strikes for that franchise that's just sad. Also, I wouldn't mind seeing Mille when she gets older play Jean Grey when they make an revival to the "X-Men" film franchise somewhere along the line, heck her character is a little like that character.
We then get down to the final minutes which are just all-around sweetness and is sort of the payoff we've waited a long time for, the Snowball dance. We see the characters dance with the right people from Lucas with Max, along with Will and some girl so it looks like he's got some magnetism.
Really liked Dustin whom has a hairstyle that makes him look like Huey Lewis at the time, which makes sense as Huey Lewis was big in the 80's. But it's really sad when we see as he makes an effort to ask girls out, each one doesn't want to dance with him but worst of all put on the damn mean girl routine by snubbing him, sad thing about that scene is things like that still happen. It was great when Nancy comes and dances with Dustin, really likes what she says to him and she's right they really don't know who their missing out on; this gives Dustin hope that he can have a girl in his life and she's out there, which I feel this is a partial set up for in next season which would be more than fair as two of his friends Lucas and Mike now have significant others so why not him.
The best part though for me was when El she comes to the dance and she is in a dress with her hair all grown and you saw that look on Mike's face, then both of them dancing and even kiss each other it was just absolutely beautiful, after everything both have been though, from this moment of their lives you knew it was all worth the wait.
However, by the end while the Strange Raiders are celebrating, the Army's of Darkness are plotting.
Rating: 4 stars
Review
naumfreixenet9 July 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Ok this is not a review of the episode but of the whole series. Eleven is an Angel/God that lives for the good of others. The upside down is hell and Eleven saves the world by closing the gate of hell. The if this is true, is Stranger Things the bible?
Season 2
erfansafaeian19 June 2021
Season 2 review
nayehorne8 June 2019
Season 2 is honestly my favorite season of Stranger Things, many people say that season 2 is cliché, but everything is originated from something so every film or tv show is cliché.
I would give it a 9.1/10
Season 1: 9.1/10
This is the season.
humzahladiwala15 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This season of stranger things is quite possibly the best television I have seen from a Netflix Original Series. In this season, the cast and crew went bigger in every aspect, and it worked to perfection. The scares were a bit more terrifying, the effects were more intense, the actors went all out, and the storyline was captivating. However, the season went through one road bump in the form of The Lost Sister, which was very confusing and it was hard to justify it's existence. However, it picked up steam once again with The Mind Flayer, and I will never get the image of Sean Austin's dead body being eaten by the hounds out of my head. Then, The Gate. This finale was perfection. Millie Bobby Brown's performance was incredible, conveying so much emotion with a singing look. However, Finn Wolfhard really stepped up, particularly in his heart to heart scene with David Harbour's Chief Jim Hopper, which left me in tears. Each character had their personal arc rounded off, except for Max, who still has the murderous older brother to deal with. However, I'm begging you right here, please watch this show. Give it time, and it will grab you and never let go.
The references just keep coming, and I love it.
jirwin-2534023 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
There have always been references. Some clear, some not so clear. My favorite so far is the homage to Evil Dead when they are attempting to get the shadow monster out of Will. Great episode. Can't wait til July for S3
Season 2 Finale
Samuel-Shovel23 February 2018
Warning: Spoilers
In the season finale of Season 2, the gate to the Upside Down must be closed to stop the "monster" from spreading further through Hawkins. It's up to a recently-returned Eleven to close the gate, with the help of Hopper as backup. Joyce, Jonathan, and (for some reason) Nancy must exorcise the monster's presence from Will using bikram yoga. The rest of the boys, Max, and Steve head into the tunnels to distract the monster by burning up a portion of it while Eleven finishes the job. Billy has his own movie going on where he's been looking for Max all night and this ends with a confrontation with Steve. After the mission is accomplished, everyone heads to the school dance in typical 80's fashion. Eleven is still in hiding but makes an appearance, much to the joy of Mike. The two share a kiss as credits roll.
This kind of ended with a dud in my opinion. It was fine but lacked a certain energy and tension that I wanted from it. I didn't feel Eleven's pain as she attempted to close the gate, I didn't feel Will's pain as he struggled with the demon. There were definitely some bits I liked, but overall it was just okay.
Season 2 Thoughts: This series feels as if it's going to be subject to the law of diminishing returns. The newness and originality that gripped us all in Season 1 is no longer present and the show is left to fend for itself with its plot lines and actors. The acting is just as good as the previous season, possibly even better. But unfortunately for us, the characters are not as well written and feel largely under-developed. Mike feels repetitive and mopey; he's definitely my least favorite character of this season. And that's not the actor's fault, it's the way he's written. Eleven no longer has that new wonder of the outside world, she is wiser now and has a better understanding of her powers. One of the things that made her interesting was her child-like innocence and her lack of control; these traits are quickly disappearing as she matures.
One of the relationships I did enjoy was between Dustin & Steve. These two had a great rapport together, Steve taking on the role as psuedo-big brother for Dustin as the season went on. I also think Charlie Heaton (who plays Jonathan) is very underrated in his portrayal; he's one of the best parts of Season 2.
I still don't know what to make of Max & Billy. They seem underdeveloped, like the Duffer brothers were going to toss them in here and figure it out later. They don't really add much to Season 2 besides a love triangle between Max, Lucas, & Dustin. Maybe the creators thought they needed a strong female lead with Eleven gone. If that's the case, give her more to do.
Season 2 felt more repetitive and more directionless than the first one. The nostalgia factor in this one is at an all time high and goes way over the top with the references, winks, and nudges that the Duffer brothers insist on giving us. While definitely not a bad show, I think that the hype train is out of control regarding this. Come on guys...
This kind of ended with a dud in my opinion. It was fine but lacked a certain energy and tension that I wanted from it. I didn't feel Eleven's pain as she attempted to close the gate, I didn't feel Will's pain as he struggled with the demon. There were definitely some bits I liked, but overall it was just okay.
Season 2 Thoughts: This series feels as if it's going to be subject to the law of diminishing returns. The newness and originality that gripped us all in Season 1 is no longer present and the show is left to fend for itself with its plot lines and actors. The acting is just as good as the previous season, possibly even better. But unfortunately for us, the characters are not as well written and feel largely under-developed. Mike feels repetitive and mopey; he's definitely my least favorite character of this season. And that's not the actor's fault, it's the way he's written. Eleven no longer has that new wonder of the outside world, she is wiser now and has a better understanding of her powers. One of the things that made her interesting was her child-like innocence and her lack of control; these traits are quickly disappearing as she matures.
One of the relationships I did enjoy was between Dustin & Steve. These two had a great rapport together, Steve taking on the role as psuedo-big brother for Dustin as the season went on. I also think Charlie Heaton (who plays Jonathan) is very underrated in his portrayal; he's one of the best parts of Season 2.
I still don't know what to make of Max & Billy. They seem underdeveloped, like the Duffer brothers were going to toss them in here and figure it out later. They don't really add much to Season 2 besides a love triangle between Max, Lucas, & Dustin. Maybe the creators thought they needed a strong female lead with Eleven gone. If that's the case, give her more to do.
Season 2 felt more repetitive and more directionless than the first one. The nostalgia factor in this one is at an all time high and goes way over the top with the references, winks, and nudges that the Duffer brothers insist on giving us. While definitely not a bad show, I think that the hype train is out of control regarding this. Come on guys...
Good actually
Abdulxoxo19 September 2020
A good finale. it's suspenful and intense. good acting. good visual effects. wonderful cinematography snd music. Everyone got a role to play.
But the Demogorgon and their dimension were not explained very well, I mean, where did they come from? Are they from Dart or someplace else? What if Dart didn't exist? would they the rest exist too?
And i hope they let Will and the whole Demogorgon thing rest now. bring on something something fresh for s3 please.
But the Demogorgon and their dimension were not explained very well, I mean, where did they come from? Are they from Dart or someplace else? What if Dart didn't exist? would they the rest exist too?
And i hope they let Will and the whole Demogorgon thing rest now. bring on something something fresh for s3 please.
A great season. Better, but also worse, than season 1.
kowalski-v28 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
**Contains Spoilers**
First of all, it's obvious that each season of Stranger Things is made to be binged watched all together. Steady pacing, with an atmosphere and characters that draw you into the strange world of Hawkins and the Upside Down.
In overall, season 2 was a great sequel to the first. As we suspected, the first one was just the tip of the iceberg. Like the vines underneath Hawkins, the plot now grew deeper, darker and more complex. Cinematography, acting and music remained top-notch, and just as I was hoping for, the visual effects were significantly improved.
It starts a bit slow with the first two episodes, but that didn't make them any less entertaining and I didn't realize how quickly they ended. Then, around episode 3, season picked up full pace and we were on for a ride. Yes, episode 7 was quite unnecessary for the most part, meaning that it didn't need to be a full episode. It was an interesting way to have El discover the true potential of her abilities, which was proved vital for the finale. But other than that, it didn't mean much, and neither did El's sister, Kali.
And to be frank, neither did Max, her brother Billy and Joyce's new boyfriend Bob. That is to say that all new characters contributed virtually nothing to the plot. I don't see how the season would be any different if they weren't there. Bob was clearly introduced so he can have his hero moment towards the end, and then be killed, leaving the popular characters safe. But his character was not developed enough for that to be even nearly a shocking death. Three pointless new characters (four, if you count Kali) are way too many for the beloved ones that got sidelined. Mr Clark, a pure gold character, was essentially an extra during this season. Lucas' part was also diminished, and the boys' bond feeling was completely gone. There was great potential for Steve to go from "badass" to "full boss badass", yet this "babysitter" role was continuously assigned to him to end up getting his ass kicked by THE most useless and non-relatable character, Billy. And I don't see how any of these new characters (other than Kali) could lay down a path for future season plot lines.
Bottom line, despite its flaws with the characters, season 2 was thrilling and better than 1, in general. It's these flaws, however, that give me this feeling that it could have been better. Maybe much better.
First of all, it's obvious that each season of Stranger Things is made to be binged watched all together. Steady pacing, with an atmosphere and characters that draw you into the strange world of Hawkins and the Upside Down.
In overall, season 2 was a great sequel to the first. As we suspected, the first one was just the tip of the iceberg. Like the vines underneath Hawkins, the plot now grew deeper, darker and more complex. Cinematography, acting and music remained top-notch, and just as I was hoping for, the visual effects were significantly improved.
It starts a bit slow with the first two episodes, but that didn't make them any less entertaining and I didn't realize how quickly they ended. Then, around episode 3, season picked up full pace and we were on for a ride. Yes, episode 7 was quite unnecessary for the most part, meaning that it didn't need to be a full episode. It was an interesting way to have El discover the true potential of her abilities, which was proved vital for the finale. But other than that, it didn't mean much, and neither did El's sister, Kali.
And to be frank, neither did Max, her brother Billy and Joyce's new boyfriend Bob. That is to say that all new characters contributed virtually nothing to the plot. I don't see how the season would be any different if they weren't there. Bob was clearly introduced so he can have his hero moment towards the end, and then be killed, leaving the popular characters safe. But his character was not developed enough for that to be even nearly a shocking death. Three pointless new characters (four, if you count Kali) are way too many for the beloved ones that got sidelined. Mr Clark, a pure gold character, was essentially an extra during this season. Lucas' part was also diminished, and the boys' bond feeling was completely gone. There was great potential for Steve to go from "badass" to "full boss badass", yet this "babysitter" role was continuously assigned to him to end up getting his ass kicked by THE most useless and non-relatable character, Billy. And I don't see how any of these new characters (other than Kali) could lay down a path for future season plot lines.
Bottom line, despite its flaws with the characters, season 2 was thrilling and better than 1, in general. It's these flaws, however, that give me this feeling that it could have been better. Maybe much better.
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