The countdown to the final season of Stranger Things on Netflix is on! As we gear up for this highly anticipated conclusion, join io9’s Hellfire Club for an exciting rewatch of the series leading up to the November premiere. If you’re a newcomer, here’s a concise refresher on season one.
This month, let’s dive into the captivating world of Stranger Things season two, where new characters and intense supernatural events unfold. The Hawkins crew welcomes Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink) and the latest challenges faced by Will (Noah Schnapp), who now finds himself caught between dimensions. Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), clandestinely kept hidden by Hopper (David Harbour) for her safety, navigates her own path while the danger from the Upside Down creeps ever closer. Explore the season’s ten pivotal moments below!
1. Eleven and Hopper Form a Familial Bond
After escaping the Upside Down, Eleven moves in with Hopper, who shields her from the agents of Hawkins National Lab. He insists on keeping her away from her friends for safety, leading to a father-daughter dynamic that’s both tender and challenging. The duo finds comfort in simple pleasures, like enjoying Eggo waffles together, but the looming threat of the Lab keeps tensions high.
2. The Sweet Romance of Max and Lucas
The budding relationship between Max and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) adds a light-hearted charm to the season. While Max initially appears as a point of rivalry between Lucas and Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) with some unnecessary drama, her transition into the group feels genuine. Max’s agility serves her well as she becomes an integral part of their adventures.
3. Dustin and Dart’s Unique Encounter
In one of the show’s quirkiest twists, Dustin discovers and befriends Dart, a creature he believes to be a simple pet. The predicaments Dart brings create a mix of comedy and danger, culminating in wild escapades that lead the group to realize Dart’s terrifying true nature as a Demodog, a creature of the Upside Down.
4. The Growing Threat from Hawkins Lab
This season introduces a new director at Hawkins Lab, who seems more amiable but is also maintaining a precarious situation with an expansive rift to the Upside Down. As Hopper and Joyce (Winona Ryder) collaborate to protect the town, the eerie transformations in their environment serve as a reminder of the impending danger.
5. Enter Babysitter Steve
As Billy (Dacre Montgomery) asserts dominance at school, Steve (Joe Keery) transforms into a babysitter figure, illustrating significant growth from his earlier persona. His protective and supportive role towards the younger kids, notably Dustin, showcases his evolution as a character.
6. Will’s Disturbing Connection to the Upside Down
Will’s newly acquired ability to see into the Upside Down introduces a layer of depth and tension. Dubbed the “Mind Flayer,” the dark entity not only manipulates Will but also aims to create chaos in Hawkins by leveraging the connection between worlds. How does this affect his friendships? It puts everyone at risk while forging powerful ties among the group.
What role does Will’s condition play in the narrative? Will’s birthday on March 22 returns as a plot point, signifying how the Mind Flayer influences his behavior. Joyce eventually realizes that something malevolent is taking control of her son, culminating in a desperate race to save him from its grasp.
7. Nancy and Jonathan’s Investigative Drive
The investigative partnership between Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) and Nancy (Natalia Dyer) offers a gripping subplot. Together, they successfully expose the wrongdoings at Hawkins Lab, risking capture and unraveling a cover-up that extends beyond their small town.
8. Eleven’s Search for Her Identity
Eleven embarks on a journey to uncover her true origins and family ties this season. She discovers the tragic fate of her mother and her ties to others from the Lab, enhancing her character’s complexity and relatability.
9. March 22: A Key Date for Will’s Journey
Will’s birthday serves as a critical narrative device, highlighting his connection to the Mind Flayer. This insight reveals how the dark entity seeks to manipulate him, raising questions about the nature of free will in the face of supernatural forces.
10. Eleven’s Heroic Moment
In a thrilling finale, Eleven returns just in time to confront the chaos and seal the rift to the Upside Down, a testament to her growth and power. The emotional stakes are high, especially following the heartbreaking loss of Bob (Sean Astin), who sacrifices himself for the safety of the group. Eleven’s victory marks a pivotal moment for Hawkins and her character arc.
Ready for more Stranger Things insights? Keep an eye out next month for our recap of season three!
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