As the curtain falls on Stranger Things, fans are left with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity about the show’s conclusion. The Duffer Brothers crafted a finale that not only tied up numerous plot lines but also included subtle nods to the series’ origins. One such reference is the mention of Montauk, a location that holds more significance than meets the eye. Spoilers ahead for those who have not yet watched the final episode.
In the last chapter of the beloved series, the gang emerges victorious after their ultimate battle against the formidable Vecna. With the threat of the Upside Down finally behind them, the characters embark on new life adventures in Hawkins, Indiana. Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max are heading off to college, while Holly begins her own Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Meanwhile, Jonathan, Nancy, Robin, and Steve have found their niches in the world of work and academia, spanning journalism to education.
Montauk: the original concept for Stranger Things
Interestingly, the initial concept for the series was pitched to Netflix under the title Montauk, envisioned as an “eight-hour sci-fi horror epic” set in the picturesque coastal town of Montauk, New York. This original idea was heavily influenced by the supernatural vibes of the 1980s, echoing the works of iconic creators like Steven Spielberg and Stephen King. The narrative aimed to explore the intersection of the mundane and the extraordinary, framed as a heartfelt tribute to the cinematic masterpieces of the era.
The Duffer Brothers drew inspiration from various sources, one being Spielberg’s classic, Jaws, where Montauk served as the backdrop for the fictional Amity Island. Additionally, the Montauk Project—a speculative series by Preston Nichols—suggested that the U.S. government conducted covert experiments at the Montauk Air Force Station, paralleling the clandestine operations of Hawkins Lab in the series.
The significance of the Montauk reference
In the finale, Hopper and Joyce finally seize the moment to go on their long-awaited date to Enzo’s. The culmination of their journey leads Hopper to propose relocating to Montauk for a fresh start. While the Duffer Brothers included this nod to Montauk, they clarified that it does not signal a potential spin-off series. Matt Duffer stated, “No, but I actually think it’s really cute. I’m glad we have it.” This statement underscores their intention to keep the Montauk reference as a charming Easter egg rather than a launching pad for further adventures.
Reflecting on character arcs and emotional payoffs
As we bid farewell to our beloved characters, the finale delivered an emotional resonance that fans had been yearning for. The episode, titled “The Rightside Up,” managed to provide closure for characters after years of development. However, it also faced criticism for pacing issues and some puzzling creative choices. Viewers were treated to several epilogues, each offering a glimpse into the characters’ lives 18 months post-battle, but the sheer number of these segments left some feeling overwhelmed.
Despite these pacing concerns, the character arcs remained a highlight. The relationship dynamics, particularly between Hopper and Eleven, shone brightly throughout the episode. Their scenes were poignant and encapsulated the essence of friendship, a core theme of Stranger Things. Mike’s emotional farewell to Eleven also reminded viewers of the significance of their bond, despite his character being somewhat sidelined in previous seasons.
Vecna’s complex legacy
While the finale featured a showdown with Vecna, some fans noted that the reveal surrounding his character lacked the surprise element they had hoped for. The backstory of Henry Creel, who becomes Vecna, was previously established, and this knowledge diminished the impact of the finale’s revelations. Yet, the performance of Jamie Campbell Bower as Vecna was a standout, showcasing a depth of emotion that kept audiences engaged.
The ultimate victory over Vecna and the Mind Flayer marked a fitting conclusion to the series, emphasizing the power of friendship and unity among the main characters. Despite some criticisms regarding the ease of their victory, the finale encapsulated the joy of watching these characters grow and triumph over adversity.
While the series finale of Stranger Things might not have been flawless, it succeeded in delivering emotional depth, thrilling moments, and a sense of closure. The allusions to Montauk, along with the resolution of character arcs, provided a satisfying farewell to a narrative that captivated audiences for years. Fans can rest easy knowing that they witnessed a heartfelt conclusion to a story that resonated on multiple levels.