One of the most gut-wrenching moments in the finale of Stranger Things 5 revolves around a beloved duo: Mike Wheeler and Eleven. Amid rumors of Eleven’s demise, Mike spins a tale, igniting imaginations everywhere. As he narrates, we’re shown Eleven trekking up a stunning cliffside, led to believe that her journey will culminate in a jaw-dropping reveal of three waterfalls. But as the story climaxes, we’re greeted with only two waterfalls.
Mike and Eleven’s Aspirations for Three Waterfalls
In the aftermath of the finale, debates have been raging among fans. Mike and Eleven shared dreams of escaping to a magical spot with three waterfalls—a detail Mike even recounts to Hopper earlier in the episode. “I had this plan,” he reveals. “Me and [Eleven], we were going to go someplace far away, and no one would find us. And I said this thing about going somewhere with three waterfalls. I don’t even know if she believed me. Who would? Three waterfalls? It’s so stupid. Childish. It was a fantasy plan.”
So, Where Did the Third Waterfall Go?
If Mike and Eleven envisioned this picturesque location, why does the grand moment only showcase two waterfalls? This isn’t just a factual oversight; it hints at a deeper storyline. Upon rewatches, keen-eyed viewers spot a mysterious white marking on the rocks just before Eleven’s big reveal. Though it appears inactive, this may hint at the long-lost third waterfall, tantalizing audiences with possibilities.
Could There Be More Than Two Waterfalls?
As we scrutinize the final shot, there’s something else lurking in the shadows. A thin sliver of white on the right edge could suggest another waterfall. Is it just a trick of the light, or could it be the elusive third? Fans have scouted the spot used for filming, identifying it as the breathtaking Háifoss and Granni waterfalls in Iceland. While there are indeed two evident waterfalls, there’s whispered rumor of a nearby third one, Hjálparfoss, merely a short ride away.
Did the Creators Slip Up?
It’s tempting to think that the Duffer Brothers overlooked this detail, but it’s more likely that they want us to see the ambiguity. The question of whether there are two or three waterfalls should not even exist in a series so adept at building strong narratives. Leaving it unclear feels like a glaring oversight, especially given the show’s focus on Eleven’s dreams.
What Does the Ambiguity Mean?
Perhaps the representation of two visible waterfalls serves a purpose. Mike’s fantastical tale reflects the tension between reality and dreams. Are we meant to count the potential third waterfall as a representation of hope for Eleven’s survival? Or is its absence a sign that she might be gone for good? That’s for viewers to interpret.
What is the significance of the three waterfalls in ‘Stranger Things’?
The three waterfalls symbolize Mike and Eleven’s dreams of escape and happiness—a perfect spot that reflects their childhood fantasies.
Did fans spot any hidden meanings in the waterfalls scene?
Yes, viewers are analyzing each detail, from the cliffs to the elusive markings, pondering whether it signifies something deeper about Eleven’s fate.
Could the Duffer Brothers have chosen a more clear location for the waterfalls?
Definitely. Fans expected a straightforward representation of what Mike had outlined, leading to sometimes frustrating interpretations of their intentions.
Are the waterfalls real locations?
Yes, the waterfalls were filmed in Iceland, a stunning spot that many fans are now eager to visit.
What’s your take on the waterfalls? Are there three, or just two?
This debate reflects the allure of storytelling in Stranger Things. Perhaps you believe there’s that hidden third waterfall, or maybe you’re convinced those two are all we’ll ever see.
As we ponder this ongoing debate, consider what it means for Mike and Eleven’s story and what it reflects about our own hopes and dreams. What do you think? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!