Stranger Things (ST) is one of the best shows on Netflix paying homage to the 80s era and using pop culture references. The Duffer brothers have weaved a multi-genre story which is a blend of horror, adventure, and conspiracy thriller. With so much to offer, the series was able to garner the attention of millions right from the start. 

The penultimate season released two-and-a-half weeks ago is breaking Netflix, being the Top English-Language show of all time. The talented ensemble cast, supernatural theme, and propulsive storytelling are some of the reasons why ST is on top of its game. So nerds, let us delve deeper to see what the hype is about, shall we?

ST Season 1

(Image Credits: Netflix)

The first season was an absolute masterpiece showing intricate character development and mysteries galore. The story opens with the disappearance of Will (Noah Schnapp) amid the unusual occurrences in Hawkins. As things unfold, we see the small town might have a lot going on. Let us look at the good and bad aspects of season 1.

Good 

1. Brilliantly written characters and focused storyline

Despite having characters of different ages, identities, and walks of life you can see a unified story that meshed together at the end in an organic way.

2. Excellent performances

The child actors: Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (GatenMatarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), and Will delivered top-notch performances. From their silly bickering to their relentless struggle to find their friend all seemed natural. 

Also, the teen and adult actors Nancy (Natalie Dyer), Jonathan (Charlie Heaton), Steve (Joe Keery), Joyce (Winona Ryder), and Hopper (David Harbour) were brilliant in making the audience resonate with them. 

3. Intriguing narrative

Each episode keeps you at the edge of your seat, wondering what happens next while praying that your favorite character stays safe.

4. Soundtrack and costumes

An exciting soundtrack that includes playlists from Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein and unique costumes that give the 80s vibe. 

Bad

The first season is a complete winner with minimal flaws. But, there might be one thing that was a bit disappointing for the opener. The Demogorgon CGI effects were a little off with so much reference to the 80s horror movies. It would have been great to see some practical effects on the deadly creature. 

ST Season 2

(Image Credits: Netflix)

Bigger and weirder is how critics describe Stranger Things Season 2. After the smashing records of the previous installment, this one could not make the same impact. Finally, we see Will and his family and friends returning to their everyday lives after the terrifying events. But, this is Hawkins, and things start getting stranger sooner than expected. Here are some of the plus points and downsides of S2.

Good 

1. Remarkable new character combination

Much to the viewers shock, Eleven was back with a bang. She lives with Hopper, and they both have a bittersweet relationship. Millie and David brilliantly portray this. Next, we see Dustin and Steve having an endearing bond and Nancy and Jonathan being a lovely couple.

2. Addition of new characters

Bob (Sean Astin), Dr. Sam Owens ( Paul Reiser), Murray Bauman (Brett Gelman), Billy (Dacre Montgomery), and Max (Sadie Sink) were some of the new characters and were fun to watch. Each was important to the main story arc, making it meaningful.

Bad

1. Sidelining the main characters

While the main cast is one of the reasons why people love ST, this season betrayed a few of our beloved characters. Mike and Will, who are part of the main gang, were sidelined. They showed no development and had no impressive lines this time. 

2. Forced narrative

Eleven visiting her mother was bearable but meeting her long-lost sister Kali (Linnea Berthelsen) was not. The whole plot seemed forced to fit in one of the episodes. And as quick as the reunion was, so was the goodbye between the sisters. Watching it leaves you confused with questions such as “How is Kali wandering?” Given that Dr. Brenner (Matthew Modine) went crazy after Eleven went missing from the lab. That makes no sense, right?

ST Season 3

(Image Credits: Netflix)

Stranger Things Season 3 is promising, fun, and gorier than ever. Viewers find the kids in their teens enjoying the Summer Break. They are oblivious about the Russian invasion on the Upside Down and the Mindflayer returning to power. Let us look into the good and the bad aspects of this season. 

Good 

1. Light humor

Although ST is a horror show, in Season 3, we witnessed some humor. It was sweet to watch after seeing our heroes suffering for the last two years. Also, the friendly banter between Steve and Dustin, Robin (Maya Hawke) and Steve, and Erica (Priah Ferguson) with almost everyone was a treat. These were some long-awaited scenes.

2. New Location and amazing effects

Unlike the previous two seasons, the group is not hanging in the neighborhood, Hawkins Lab and School. Instead, they are now going to places like the StarcourtMall, the community swimming pool, and the FunFair. This time we get to see some of the deadliest things ever. The resurrection of the Mind Flayer and the union of all the Flayed people sent shivers down the spine. Kudos to the VFX Team for bringing the monsters to life.

3. Budding friendship

It is so heartfelt to see Eleven bond with Max. The world treated her as an outcast. But, with Max, we see her growing as a person.

Bad

Overall, the season was an absolute treat to watch. The only downside was Will being sidelined again. Poor writing on the part of the writers for him. With so much potential in character, I hope we get to see more from him next time on screen.

ST Season 4 (Vol.1) 

(Image Credits: Netflix)

The Duffers have hit the ball out of the park making ST one of the best shows on Netflix. S4 (Vol.1) is the darkest and scariest season, with 3 Groups, the Hawkins Group, California Group, and Hopper Rescue Team in Russia. The plot is spread in diverse directions, each fighting to save the other. Let us review some of the loved facts and disliked facts about S4 Vol 1.

Good 

1. Lovable new characters

Eddie (Joseph Quinn), Henry (Jamie Bower), Argyle (Eduardo Franco), and Enzo (Tom Wlaschiha) gave phenomenal performances.

2. Hawkins storyline and Max

The Hawkins crew have a new mystery up their sleeve and are up to find the reason behind the murders. Max in Dear Billy was extraordinary, fighting her demons and escaping Vecna.

Bad 

1. Too many tropes

With the group now divided, we see three tropes which means an expanded plot. As a result, certain storylines become boring to watch. The California crew, for instance, is not up to much while the Hawkins crew is unfolding the mysteries.

2. Sidelining main characters

The newest addition to this mistreated group is our very own Jonathan. Welcome to the bandwagon. As usual, Will has the least to offer, and so has Mike.

Final Word

Stranger Things offers a reminiscence of the 80s era with the element of horror. Ross and Matt Duffer are brilliant with propelling storytelling. The cast is exceptional performance-wise, making it all real. If you are into sci-fi, I suggest you watch the show.