The finale of Stranger Things has elicited a blend of nostalgia and curiosity among fans. As the series concludes, viewers are left contemplating the implications of various plot elements, including a notable reference to Montauk, New York. In the last episode, as characters bid farewell and embark on new chapters, this detail may have gone unnoticed by some.
Before exploring this connection, it is essential to note that spoilers lie ahead for those who have yet to watch the final episode of season five. Proceed with caution!
Wrapping up the journey in Hawkins
Following their epic confrontation with Vecna and the destruction of the Upside Down, the close-knit group of friends experiences a period of renewal in Hawkins, Indiana. Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max prepare to transition into college life, while Holly initiates her own Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Concurrently, Jonathan, Nancy, Robin, and Steve begin to forge their paths as students, reporters, radio personalities, and educators in sex education.
Joyce and Hopper, after a prolonged separation, finally enjoy a date at Enzo’s, hinting at their potential future together. During this meal, Hopper proposes they consider relocating to a place like Montauk, recognized for its scenic beaches. This moment encapsulates the essence of their evolving relationship.
The Montauk connection
Interestingly, the original concept for Stranger Things was pitched to Netflix under the title Montauk. Described as an “eight-hour sci-fi horror epic,” the initial idea was set against the backdrop of Long Island in the 1980s. The creators, the Duffer Brothers, aimed to capture the essence of classic supernatural tales from that era, blending human emotions with elements of horror.
The pitch emphasized the duality of the ordinary and the extraordinary, echoing the storytelling styles of legends like Stephen Spielberg and Stephen King. This rich narrative was intended as a tribute to their golden age, where human drama intertwines seamlessly with supernatural dread.
Influences behind Montauk
Montauk, as a setting, draws inspiration from various sources, including Jaws, which famously features the fictional Amity Island based on the real Montauk. Furthermore, it references the controversial Montauk Project, a series of conspiracy theories suggesting that the U.S. government conducted secretive experiments in this location to develop psychological warfare techniques. These themes resonate with the covert operations depicted in the Hawkins laboratory throughout the series, where the government attempts to monitor adversaries like the Russian regime.
However, fans should temper their excitement regarding a potential spinoff. In an interview, Matt Duffer clarified that while Ross Duffer wanted to incorporate Montauk into the finale, he did not wish for audiences to anticipate a standalone series emerging from it. Instead, he expressed his delight in the inclusion, describing the reference as “really cute.”
What’s next for Stranger Things fans?
While the series has concluded, the Duffer Brothers are not finished with the Stranger Things universe. Several spinoff projects are currently in development, aiming to expand on the beloved world and its characters. Fans can expect new stories that retain the captivating blend of nostalgia and horror that has enthralled audiences globally.
As the dust settles on the Stranger Things finale, the Montauk reference stands as a poignant reminder of the series’ roots and inspirations. It encapsulates the journey of the characters and the emotional resonance that has defined the show. While the adventure in Hawkins may have come to a close, the echoes of Montauk and the cherished friends will linger in our memories.