What’s Next for Stranger Things as the Finale Approaches?

The highly anticipated finale of Netflix's Stranger Things is set to drop soon, with three new episodes available on Boxing Day in the UK. As fans await the conclusion, they are left pondering the fate of Hawkins and its residents, particularly Eleven and her friends as they face the monstrous Vecna and the Demogorgons. This article delves into the show's current status, key plot points, and what viewers can expect as the series wraps up.

Last updated: 25 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the fifth season of Stranger Things progresses, fans are on the edge of their seats. The latest episodes have seen Hawkins besieged by creatures from the Upside Down, including Demogorgons and the formidable Vecna, who poses a significant threat to the entire town. The intense narrative has led to a military quarantine of Hawkins, leaving residents in a desperate struggle for survival. With the final three episodes scheduled for release shortly after Christmas, anticipation is building for how the storyline will conclude.

Key takeaways

• The final three episodes of Stranger Things will be available to stream in the UK on Boxing Day at 01:00 GMT.
• The last episode has a runtime of two hours and five minutes and will be released on New Year’s Day in the UK.
• Major plot elements include Eleven's battle against Vecna and the emergence of Will's supernatural powers.
• The show's creators have aimed to provide a satisfying conclusion, avoiding the pitfalls of disappointing finales seen in other series.
• Despite its monumental success, the Duffer brothers have confirmed there will be no sequel to the series.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to the final season of Stranger Things has been a thrilling ride since its debut in July 2016. Here’s a brief timeline of significant events leading to season five:

• July 2016: Stranger Things premieres on Netflix, quickly gaining a massive following.
• October 2017: Season 2 is released, expanding the show's universe and introducing new characters.
• July 2019: Season 3 debuts, featuring the summer adventures of Hawkins' kids.
• May 2022: The fourth season is released in two parts, culminating in a dramatic cliffhanger.
• November 2022: Netflix announces season five will be the last.
• December 2023: The final episodes of Stranger Things are set to be released.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest episodes have intensified the focus on Eleven and her friends as they confront Vecna. The introduction of significant plot devices, such as Will's emerging powers and the implications of music as a tool against Vecna's influence, adds depth to the unfolding drama. The character dynamics have shifted, revealing new alliances and conflicts.

What was already established

Prior seasons laid the groundwork for the current narrative, establishing the presence of the Upside Down, the significance of Eleven's powers, and the personal histories of core characters like Vecna. Fans are already aware of the tragic backstory of Henry Creel and his transformation into Vecna, as well as the importance of music in combatting his mind control.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The release of the final episodes is expected to create a surge in Netflix viewership, particularly during the holiday season. Fans will likely gather for viewings, making it a communal event similar to other major series finales. The anticipation could also lead to an increase in subscriptions for those who have yet to join the streaming platform.

Businesses and jobs

The show's success has had a ripple effect on related industries, including merchandise sales and promotional events. Local businesses could see a boost as fans celebrate the series’ conclusion. Furthermore, the Netflix production has contributed to job creation in various sectors, from filming to marketing.

Policy and regulation

While Stranger Things remains a cultural phenomenon, its impact on streaming regulations and entertainment policies in the UK is worth noting. As the popularity of streaming services continues to rise, discussions surrounding content regulation and fair competition with traditional media outlets will likely intensify.

Numbers that matter

• 1 billion hours: The total hours of viewing for season four, making it the first English-language show to reach this milestone.
• 500 cinemas: The number of locations across the US and Canada where fans can watch the finale on the big screen.
• 93 countries: The number of countries where Stranger Things has consistently ranked in Netflix's Top 10.
• 2 hours 5 minutes: The runtime for the final episode, which marks a significant conclusion to the series.
• 4 seasons: The series has captivated audiences over four previous seasons, each contributing to the overarching narrative.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Demogorgon: A monstrous creature from the Upside Down, often serving as a primary antagonist.
• Vecna: A significant villain in the series, originally known as Henry Creel, who possesses supernatural abilities.
• Upside Down: A parallel dimension that houses various monsters and serves as a central plot element in the series.
• Rifts: Dimensional tears that allow creatures from the Upside Down to enter the real world.
• Military quarantine: A state imposed to contain the threats arising from the Upside Down, impacting the town's residents.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the final episodes release, expect discussions and analyses to proliferate across social media and fan forums. Viewers will be actively engaging with the content, sharing theories and interpretations of the plot.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-finale, fans will reflect on the series’ legacy, leading to discussions about potential spin-offs or other projects from the Duffer brothers. Merchandise sales may also spike as fans seek to commemorate the series.

Signals to watch

• Fan reactions on social media platforms following the finale.
• Any announcements regarding future projects from the Duffer brothers.
• Ratings and viewership numbers for the finale and subsequent episodes.

Practical guidance

Do

• Prepare for a viewing party to celebrate the series finale with friends and family.
• Engage with fan theories and content online to enhance your viewing experience.
• Consider rewatching earlier seasons to refresh your memory of key plot points.

Don’t

• Don’t spoil the series for others by revealing plot twists before they have watched.
• Don’t ignore the importance of music in the series, as it plays a crucial role in the narrative.
• Don’t underestimate the emotional impact of the finale; prepare for potential surprises.

Checklist

• Have snacks and drinks ready for the viewing party.
• Ensure your Netflix subscription is active.
• Gather friends or family who are also fans of the show.
• Set reminders for the release times of the new episodes.
• Follow fan communities for discussions and theories.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the anticipation for the finale is palpable, expectations can often lead to disappointment, particularly given the polarising responses to other series' conclusions. The Duffer brothers have acknowledged the challenge of crafting a satisfying ending and have expressed their commitment to avoid disappointing fans. However, as with any popular series, the diversity of fan expectations means some may find aspects of the finale unsatisfactory.

Bottom line

The final episodes of Stranger Things promise to deliver a thrilling conclusion to a beloved series. With significant plot developments and character arcs coming to a close, fans can expect a mix of tension, nostalgia, and emotional payoff. As we approach the end, the stakes are higher than ever for the inhabitants of Hawkins.

FAQs

When will the final episodes of Stranger Things be released in the UK?

The final three episodes will be available for streaming in the UK on Boxing Day at 01:00 GMT.

How long is the last episode of Stranger Things?

The last episode has a runtime of two hours and five minutes, making it a feature-length finale.

Will there be a sequel to Stranger Things?

The Duffer brothers have confirmed that there will be no sequel to Stranger Things, stating that the story of Hawkins and its characters has come to a definitive end.