Will's connection to the hive mind makes him this season's secret weapon, allowing Hawkins' heroes a man on the inside who can spot incoming threats. This newfound power also brings Will into his own with Robin's help, making for a sweet subplot that builds to an epic payoff.
The radio station run by Nancy, Steve, and Robin is another welcome addition to the show, adding a new layer of nostalgia for the days before music streaming and radio personalities. The way they use the radio to send covert messages to their team also feels very Star Wars-like, with Steve giving off Han Solo vibes as he drives the mobile station.
Nancy's transformation into an '80s heroine is also a highlight, with her becoming the brains behind the operation as she guides every player on the table to use their skills to defeat Vecna. Her character development is key in making this season work, particularly when it comes to her relationships with the other characters.
The friendships between the kids are still what make Stranger Things special, with Steve and Dustin's bond remaining unbreakable. The new additions, like Will and Robin, also feel relatable and critical to the story. The show does an excellent job of balancing action and humor, making it a joy to watch.
Eleven's training montage was sick, and seeing her really lean into her powers finally in the Upside Down was so cool. Her relationship with Hopper is especially strong, and his guidance helps Eleven grow into a powerful force against Vecna.
The return of Eight and her connection to the government's plan also adds an interesting layer to the story, as she uses her knowledge to help Eleven take down Vecna. The show does a great job of connecting these characters in meaningful ways, making for a satisfying storyline.
However, some aspects leave much to be desired. Jonathan's obsession with Steve is tiring and feels like a competition that Nancy deserves better than to deal with. His focus on being better than Steve rather than growing as an individual himself makes him lack emotional growth.
Additionally, the mysterious cave introduced in volume one doesn't help viewers understand its significance, feeling more like an increment of information that's not well-integrated into the story so far.
The show also didn't do enough with Dr. Kay, a character who was heavily anticipated due to her casting. Her role is minimal at this point, leaving many fans wanting more about what makes her tick and how she fits into the overall plot.
Overall, Stranger Things Season 5 Vol. 1 is off to a great start, showcasing the characters' growth and development while delivering plenty of nostalgic charm. While some plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped, the show's ability to balance action and humor keeps viewers engaged.
The radio station run by Nancy, Steve, and Robin is another welcome addition to the show, adding a new layer of nostalgia for the days before music streaming and radio personalities. The way they use the radio to send covert messages to their team also feels very Star Wars-like, with Steve giving off Han Solo vibes as he drives the mobile station.
Nancy's transformation into an '80s heroine is also a highlight, with her becoming the brains behind the operation as she guides every player on the table to use their skills to defeat Vecna. Her character development is key in making this season work, particularly when it comes to her relationships with the other characters.
The friendships between the kids are still what make Stranger Things special, with Steve and Dustin's bond remaining unbreakable. The new additions, like Will and Robin, also feel relatable and critical to the story. The show does an excellent job of balancing action and humor, making it a joy to watch.
Eleven's training montage was sick, and seeing her really lean into her powers finally in the Upside Down was so cool. Her relationship with Hopper is especially strong, and his guidance helps Eleven grow into a powerful force against Vecna.
The return of Eight and her connection to the government's plan also adds an interesting layer to the story, as she uses her knowledge to help Eleven take down Vecna. The show does a great job of connecting these characters in meaningful ways, making for a satisfying storyline.
However, some aspects leave much to be desired. Jonathan's obsession with Steve is tiring and feels like a competition that Nancy deserves better than to deal with. His focus on being better than Steve rather than growing as an individual himself makes him lack emotional growth.
Additionally, the mysterious cave introduced in volume one doesn't help viewers understand its significance, feeling more like an increment of information that's not well-integrated into the story so far.
The show also didn't do enough with Dr. Kay, a character who was heavily anticipated due to her casting. Her role is minimal at this point, leaving many fans wanting more about what makes her tick and how she fits into the overall plot.
Overall, Stranger Things Season 5 Vol. 1 is off to a great start, showcasing the characters' growth and development while delivering plenty of nostalgic charm. While some plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped, the show's ability to balance action and humor keeps viewers engaged.
! The way Will's connection to the hive mind is handled is really cool, it adds a whole new layer to the story 
. I also think Nancy's transformation into an '80s heroine is amazing, she's becoming more confident and in control which is great to see 
.
, especially Steve and Dustin's bond. And Eleven's training montage was insane 
! Her relationship with Hopper is also super strong, it's nice to see them grow together 
.
, his obsession with Steve can be annoying at times. And I wish they'd explored Dr. Kay's character more 
, she seemed like such an interesting person when she was cast but now her role feels kind of minimal.
. The balance of action and humor is on point, it's a great way to keep viewers engaged 
. Bring on the rest of the season! 
. I also appreciate how Nancy's character has evolved into a total boss, guiding her team to take down Vecna 
, but it's awesome to see new relationships like Will and Robin's come together too 
. The return of Eight adds an interesting layer to the story, and I love how she helps Eleven take down Vecna 
.
, and his character could use more development. And can we please get more out of Dr. Kay? She was so hyped up before this season, and her role feels really underutilized 
. But overall, Stranger Things is off to a great start, and I'm excited to see where the rest of the season takes us 
!
. And omg Steve's mobile radio station is such a cool nod to the 80s 
. It's like they're in their own little Star Wars universe 
. Nancy's transformation into a total boss lady is amazing, she's definitely got some awesome new skills 
. The friendships between the kids are still so heartwarming, it's like they're one big happy family 
! Her relationship with Hopper is so strong, it gives me all the feels 
. But seriously, I think Nancy's transformation is a highlight - she's really coming into her own as the leader of the group. The new additions like Will and Robin are cool too, they add some fresh perspectives to the show.
.
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. Hope we get more of her story soon.
. And Nancy's transformation into an '80s heroine is everything! She's the brains behind the operation and her relationships with the other characters are so important.
. But I wish Jonathan would focus on growing as an individual instead of trying to one-up Steve all the time 
The newbies like Will and Robin are 
Steve's Han Solo vibes are everything 
The action scenes are 
it's like will becoming the hive mind is giving him a whole new level of cool