Stranger Things Ends with a Whimper

"Its most effective qualities, such as the appeal of its young cast and the nostalgic elements of its setting, had been in serious decline for a while. So the series finale, "The Rightside Up," was exciting because it at least came with a guarantee that (most of) this adventure would be wrapped up by the time the closing credits rolled. Yes, it'd take over two hours, but knowing that an end was at hand was honestly a relief."

"While featuring many of the show's stronger qualities, the series finale also managed to encompass so many of the Netflix show's biggest flaws at once. Awkward acting. Even more awkward CGI. Multiple fake-outs, manipulating us into daring to believe that a character might actually die. Terrible wigs. And a conclusion that had a good message and positive vibes, but took far, far too long to arrive."

"Those first four episodes, though, were followed by a Volume 2 which technically moved the plot along, but only in the slowest ways possible, with multiple narratives dragged out across multiple episodes. These three episodes did make time for some big character moments, like Nancy (Natalia Dyer) and Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) calling an end to their relationship - though the scene was so confusing in its execution that the Duffer Brothers literally had to give a statement to People confirming that those two crazy kids"

The Season 5 finale provides mostly satisfying closure by wrapping up the central adventure over a two-hour conclusion. Early episodes delivered strong momentum through cooperative set pieces—Hawkins characters searching the Upside Down and breaking into a military installation—that showcased cast chemistry. The latter volume slows significantly, stretching multiple narratives and diluting momentum. The finale combines emotional beats and a positive message with distracting flaws, including awkward acting, inconsistent CGI, contrived fake-outs, and poor wig work. Some character moments land, but confusing executions and prolonged pacing make the resolution feel overdue despite its eventual payoff.

Read at Consequence