Why Stranger Things Fans Should be Thankful for the Series Continuation (Despite Its Later Season Hurdles)
The enduring success of Stranger Things owes to its expansion across multiple seasons, enabling a richer exploration of its world and the introduction of its most beloved characters
Summary
The evolution of Stranger Things from a self-contained sci-fi tale to a worldwide phenomenon has captivated the curiosity and creativity of individuals across the globe. Halting the show prematurely would have meant forfeiting the chance to delve into a vast and enthralling universe.
The multi-season format of Stranger Things has allowed for the expansion of its world and characters in ways that a limited series couldn't achieve. Through multiple seasons, the show has been able to delve into the development of the Upside-Down, explore the origins of its entities, and showcase the growth of key characters such as Will and Steve.
Moreover, the later seasons of Stranger Things have introduced captivating characters like Max and Robin, enhancing the depth and entertainment value of the storyline. With the inclusion of these characters, along with others like Murray and Erica, the show has become even more enriched and enjoyable.
While the later seasons of Stranger Things do have some flaws, it is a positive outcome that the show did not conclude after the first season. In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, streaming franchises have become the latest trend. However, Stranger Things emerged when this concept was still relatively new. Over time, the show has evolved from a contained science fiction narrative about children in a small American town to a vast global story that has captivated audiences worldwide. With the upcoming fifth season serving as the finale, it is clear that if the series had ended prematurely after the first season, numerous captivating elements would have been missed. Originally, Stranger Things proposed to be an anthology series where Eleven's storyline would conclude after just one season. Considering the extensive development of Stranger Things, it is difficult to envision the narratives of Eleven, Will, and the Upside-Down being resolved after only a handful of episodes. Much would have remained unknown about the true nature of the Upside-Down, the Demogorgon, the origins of everything, and how it intersected with the Cold War. Consequently, it is commendable that Netflix chose to transform Stranger Things into a fully-fledged series rather than an anthology, affording the show more time to unravel its narrative and allowing viewers to become deeply attached to the characters.
Multiple Seasons Allowed Stranger Things To Flesh Out Its World
Stranger Things could have explored its world more in a limited series, but the show has surpassed expectations by expanding across multiple seasons. Few sci-fi or fantasy series have delved as deeply into their world, lore, and characters as Stranger Things has. The show's scale has grown significantly, leaving room for potential spinoffs. In season 4 alone, the Mind Flayer, Upside-Down, and Hawkins Lab each received organic origin stories. The show even explored the concept of time in the Upside-Down and portrayed how Will communicated with his mother in season 1. If Stranger Things had ended after the first season, all of these aspects would have remained unexplained.
The evolution of Stranger Things extends beyond the Upside-Down and its villains. Multiple seasons have allowed the characters to develop and grow. Will's story, in particular, has undergone significant development as he grapples with the aftermath of his abduction and time in the Upside-Down. The show has also tackled his sexuality, making it an important topic both within the show and among its community. Steve Harrington's character, too, has evolved, becoming a beloved figure among fans, thanks in part to his portrayal in season 2. The ability to delve deeper into character development and relationships is a significant advantage of Stranger Things' multi-season format.
Stranger Things’ Other Seasons Introduced Its Best Characters
Stranger Things' season 1 would have missed out on some fantastic characters if it had ended there. Max, introduced in season 2, has quickly become a fan-favorite with her sharp sense of humor and captivating storyline in season 4. Her presence brings a refreshing female representation to the Party and adds a unique flavor to the show. Similarly, Robin, a later addition to the series, contributes greatly with her quick wit and delightful dynamics with both Steve and Nancy.
The show benefits from these later additions, enhancing its entertainment value. Characters like Robin, Max, and Eddie in Stranger Things bring their own personalities and interactions, making the show even more enjoyable. While some viewers may prefer a smaller cast, the supporting characters like Murray or Erica add depth and excitement to the show. Although the later seasons of Stranger Things might have flaws, the fact that it is a multi-season story ultimately makes it better.
