Stranger Things Renewed For Season 4

Get ready for more Eleven, Will and the gang to take on more strange things, as Netflix as ordered a fourth season of it's hit nostalgia-filed 1980s thriller.

On Monday, a teaser video for Season four also confirms with what was widely suspected, coming out of this summer's run that with Will's family moved and some sorts of loose end dangled before us over in Russia, "We're not in Hawkins Anymore."

The hit series pick up comes as part of a new, multi-year deal with creators and showrunners, The Duffer Brothers, who will develop series and films for Netflix.

"The Duffer Brothers have captivated viewers around the world with STranger Things and we're thrilled to expand our relationship with them to bring their vivid imaginations to other film and series projects our members will love, Netflix CCO Ted Sarandos said in a statement. "We can't wait to see what The Duffer Brothers have in store when they step outside the world of The Upside Down."

Here's a teaser:

Seasons one through three are available on Netflix now.

Stranger Things 3 Premiere Date

Just before the clock strikes midnight Monday night, Netflix released the premiere date for Stranger Things 3 in the most thrilling and classy way possible.

July 4 will be the premiere date.

Here's the promo:

You can catch the first two seasons of the hit Netflix show available now.

24th annual SAG Awards Nominations

The nominations for the 24th annual Screen Actor Guild Awards were announced Wednesday and HBO's Big Little Lies and Netflix series GLOW led the field with four nods. 

The 2018 SAG Awards will be simulcast live on both TNT and TBS on Sunday, Jan. 21st with the first ever host hosted by The Good Place star Kristen Bell.

Here are the nominations:

Drama Ensemble

Game of Thrones
The Crown
Stranger Things
The Handmaid's Tale
This Is Us

Drama Actress

Millie Bobby Brown, Stranger Things
Claire Foy, The Crown
Laura Linney, Ozark
Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid's Tale
Robin Wright, House of Cards

Drama Actor

Jason Bateman, Ozark
Sterling L. Brown, This Is Us
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
David Harbour, Stranger Things
Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul

Comedy Ensemble

Black-ish
Curb Your Enthusiasm
GLOW
Orange Is the New Black
VEEP

Comedy Actress

Uzo Aduba, Orange is the New Black
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep
Jane Fonda, Grace and Frankie
Lily Tomlin, Grace and Frankie
Alison Brie, GLOW

Comedy Actor

Anthony Anderson, Black-ish
Aziz Ansari, Master of None
Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm
Sean Hayes, Will & Grace
William H. Macy, Shameless
Marc Maron, GLOW

TV Movie or Miniseries Female Actor

Nicole Kidman, Big Little Lies
Reese Witherspoon, Big Little Lies
Susan Sarandon, FEUD: Bette and Joan
Jessica Lange, FEUD: Bette and Joan
Laura Dern, Big Little Lies

TV Move or Miniseries Male Actor

Benedict Cumberbatch, Sherlock
Jeff Daniels, Godless
Robert De Niro, The Wizard of Lies
Geoffery Rush, Genius
Alexander Skarsgard, Big Little Lies

Stunt Team

Game of Thrones
GLOW
Homeland
Stranger Things
The Walking Dead

Golden Globe TV Nominations

Monday was the announcements for the 75th annual Golden Globe Awards. Here are the Golden Globe television nominations.

Drama Series:

The Crown
Game of Thrones
The Handmaid's Tale
Stranger Things
This Is Us

Drama Actor:

Jason Bateman, Ozark
Sterling K. Brown, This Is Us
Freddie Highmore, Bates Motel
Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul
Liev Schreiber, Ray Donovan

Drama Actress:

Caitriona Balfe, Outlander
Claire Foy, The Crown
Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Deuce
Katherine Langfor, 13 Reasons Way
Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid's Tale

Comedy or Musical Series:

Blackish
Master of None
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
SMILF
Will & Grace

Comedy or Musical Actor:

Anthony Anderson, black-ish
Aziz Ansari, Master of None
Kevin Bacon, I Love Dick
William H. Macy, Shameless
Eric McCormack, Will & Grace

Comedy of Musical Actress:

Pamela Adoln, Better Things
Alison Brie, GLOW
Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Issa Rae, Insecure
Frankie Shaw, SMILF

TV Movie or Miniseries:
Big Little Lies

Fargo
FEUD: Bette and Joan
The Sinner
Top of the Lake: China Girl

TV Movie or Miniseries Actor:

Robert De Niro, The Wizard of Lies
Jude Law, The Young Pope
Kyle MacLachlan, Twin Peaks
Ewan McGregor, Frago
Geoffrey Rush, Genius

TV Movie or Miniseries Actress:

Jessica Biel, The Sinner
Nicole Kidman, Big Little Lies
Jessica Lange, FEUD: Bette and Joan
Susan Sarandon, FEUD: BEtte and Joan
Reese Witherspoon, Big Little Lies

TV Series Movie or Miniseries Supporting Actress:

Laura Dern, Big Little Lies
Anne Dowd, Handmaid's Tale
Chrissy Metz, This Is Us
Michaelle Pfeiffer, The Wizard of Lies
Shailene Woodley, Big Little Lies

TV Series Movie or Miniseries Supporting Actor 

Daid Harbour, Stranger Things
Alfred Monlina, FEUD: Bette and Joan
Christian Slater, Mr. Robot
Alexander Skarsgard, Big Little lies
Savid Thewlis, Frago

You an catch the 75th Golden Globes Sunday, January 7th hosted by Seth Meyers on NBC.

Stranger Things Renewed For Season 3

Well, it looks we're going to be getting more awesome eighties references because Netflix announced on Friday that they've renewed Stranger Things for a third season.

 The series co-creators the Duffer Brothers had previously confirmed that a potential third season would make a time jump ahead of a year to 1985, when the aforementioned classics ruled the box office.

"Even if we wanted to hop into the action faster, we couldn't," said Matt Duffer, when he told The Hollywood Reporter. "Our kids are aging, We can only write and produce the show so fast. They're going to be almost a year older by the time we start shooting Season 3...(so) it forces you to do a time jump."

The Duffer Brothers also hinted that Season 3 would feature a rematch between Mind Flyer and Eleven, telling THR that the shadow monster is "very much aware of the kids, and particularly Eleven. It had not encountered her and her powers until that final episode. Now it knows that she's out there."

Stranger Things' season two was, by all account, a smashing success. Although Netflix doesn't release any viewership data, Nielsen reported that a total of 15.8 million people watched the first episode during it's first three days of availability (starting Oct. 27th), putting it right on par with The Walking Dead's recent Live+3 DVR numbers.

Returning for Season 3 are series regulars Winona Ryder (Joyce), David Harbour (Jim), Finn Wolfhand (Mike), Noah Schnapp (Will), Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), Cara Buono (Karen), Natalia Dyer (Nancy), Charlie Heaton (Jonathan), Joe Keery (Steve) Dacre Montgomery (Billy) and Sadie Sink (Max).

There are no information on the episode count for season 3. The first two seasons were consisted of eight and nine episodes. Maybe we'll get ten episodes?

You can catch the first two seasons of Stranger Things available on Netflix now.

"Bitchin'" Stranger Things Season 2, "Chapter 9: The Gate" Season Finale

Everything has been leading up to this moment! The Season 2 finale, "Chapter 9: The Gate," delivers an explosive and emotionally resonant conclusion, tying together critical storylines while setting the stage for what's next.

Reunions, Rescue, and Reckoning

The episode kicks off with a long-awaited and truly emotional reunion between Eleven and Mike. The secret of her living with Hopper for a year finally comes out, leading to a heated exchange with Mike, who then lets his anger out at Hopper before receiving a comforting hug.

After a quick round of hugs and greetings with everyone, including Max, Joyce takes Eleven to see Will. Seeing the "Close Gate" message, Eleven realizes she can close the Upside Down gate. Concurrent to this, Joyce devises a desperate plan: instead of letting Will die with the gate closing, they must superheat his body to force the creature possessing him out.

Joyce, Jonathan, and Nancy take Will to Hopper's cabin, cranking up the heat with fires and space heaters, aiming to make it hotter than the sun. Will awakens, screaming that he's burning. As they watch, the heat initially seems ineffective, but Joyce pushes the space heaters even higher. The creature begins to emerge, and in a shocking move, Nancy grabs a hot poker and burns Will's side, forcing the entity to fully evacuate his body.

Closing the Gate & A Father-Daughter Bond

Meanwhile, Hopper and Eleven head back to the DOE building to close the gate before the monster can escape. Before they reach it, the two share a robust, long-overdue conversation, making peace about her disappearance and his overprotective behavior. Once inside the DOE, Eleven experiences vivid flashbacks of her terrifying stay there. They press on, and after receiving confirmation from Jonathan that the creature has successfully escaped Will's body, Eleven prepares to close the gate.

The Kids' Fight & Steve's Sacrifice

While the critical missions unfold, Mike refuses to sit on the sidelines, despite his hatred for sports analogies. He tries to convince Steve to take them to the pumpkin patch. Steve vehemently denies, but Max's volatile older stepbrother, Billy, with his keen "lie detector," senses Steve's deception. A brutal fight ensues, with Steve initially holding his own until Billy unleashes a mad fury. As Billy kicks the crap out of Steve, Max bravely intervenes, grabbing a syringe and injecting her stepbrother with the same sedative Will received earlier. After a tense few minutes, Billy finally goes down, but not before Max threatens him with Steve's bat.

Mike and the gang then head out to the pumpkin patch, with Max driving Billy's car – a truly humorous highlight of the episode. They arrive and enter the Upside Down tunnels, led by Steve, where they begin spraying and dumping gasoline everywhere before igniting a massive fire. This deliberate act of burning mirrors Will's own ordeal at the cabin. Mike and the gang escape, but not before Dustin pauses to give his once-pet Dart a couple of Musketeers, a poignant goodbye.

Eleven's Triumph & Aftermath

As Eleven struggles to close the gate, she remembers Kali's (Eleven's) teaching to harness anger. Drawing upon her deepest resentments and frustrations, she channels her immense power, pushing the creature back and slamming the gate shut. The closure instantly kills all the Upside Down creatures, including Dart.

A month later, things are looking up for Hawkins. The DOE lab has been shut down. Hopper has lunch with a surprisingly alive Dr. Owens, who gives him a momentous gift: the official adoption papers making him the proud father of Jane Hopper (Eleven). Hopper asks how long it will be until she can go out freely, and Owens suggests a year – but then makes an exception for one night.

The episode culminates at the Snow Ball dance. Dustin, sporting a new Steve-inspired hairstyle, sadly loses the chance to dance with Max but finds solace dancing with Nancy. Will also gets a dance partner. Hopper and Joyce share a quiet smoke, reminiscent of old times, hinting at their potential future. But the moment everyone's been waiting for arrives: to the tune of "Every Breath You Take," Eleven (now Jane) appears in a beautiful dress. Mike walks up to her, they dance (awkwardly at first, then sweetly), and share a tender, long-awaited kiss.

With everything seemingly tied up with a nice big bow, the final shot pulls back to reveal the Upside Down version of the school's gym, with the massive shadow monster Will had been seeing still looming over it. Could it be that it's finally going to stay in the Upside Down for good, or will we see this terrifying entity back in Season 3?

Review: A Perfect Season Capper

"The Gate" was one hell of a good season finale. It beautifully wrapped up several storylines, some of which had been building since the series' inception. The resolution of Dustin's crush on Nancy culminating in their dance, Mike and Eleven finally sharing a kiss at the Snow Ball, and Joyce and Hopper's quiet, intimate moments (they would make a fantastic couple!) all felt incredibly satisfying. I can't pick who outperformed whom because everyone in this episode delivered an outstanding and equally pivotal performance. The only lingering question I have is about Max's stepbrother, Billy – what was his ultimate purpose this season beyond providing intense scenes with Max and Steve? The writing of the episode was simply superb, balancing all these moving parts.

Overall, I give this episode a 9 out of 10.

Stranger Things Season 2: Overall Review

I wholeheartedly believe Stranger Things Season 2 was a significant step up from Season 1, particularly in its writing and character growth. The performances were consistently outstanding across the board. Winona Ryder's portrayal of Joyce was compelling and absolutely deserves consideration for an award. Finn Wolfhard (Mike), David Harbour (Hopper), and Noah Schnapp (Will) were all phenomenal. And Millie Bobby Brown, despite having slightly less screen time than in the first season, still delivered another impressive and impactful performance.

Sean Astin's portrayal of Bob Newby really grew on me throughout the season. While I initially didn't care much for Bob or his advice to Will about facing fears head-on, his later actions, helping Joyce and Mike, and ultimately becoming the superhero he claimed to be, made me genuinely love the character. I also can't leave out Paul Reiser, whose performance as Dr. Owens was excellent. He masterfully balanced the character's initial mysterious and somewhat dark demeanor with a surprisingly kind and caring side by the end of the season.

The anticipation for this season was immense, and it certainly did not disappoint. While there were a few storylines that felt a bit lighter or left me scratching my head, such as the Nancy and Jonathan relationship or the arc involving Max and her stepbrother, the strength of the other narratives, especially those centered on Will and Eleven, made me easily overlook those minor quibbles. The writing was truly amazing, expanding the world and deepening the emotional core.

Overall, I give Stranger Things Season 2 a 9/10!

You can catch seasons one and two of Stranger Things on Netflix now. Also, you can see the Blu-ray/DVD of Season One available in stores now.

Runaways and Judgement Days: Things Season 2, "Chapter 7: The Lost Sister"/"Chapter 8: The Mind Flayer"

Chapter 7: The Lost Sister

In "Chapter 7: The Lost Sister," Eleven embarks on a solo journey, delving into her mother's fragmented mind to uncover the truth of her past, a quest that ultimately leads her to a startling revelation: the existence of a lost sibling.

Eleven's Search for Connection

Venturing out on her own, Eleven sets out to find what she believes is her "sister" — a person who, as her mother's memories suggest, was with her during their time with Papa. Following clues gleaned from her mother's mind and papers kept by her aunt, Eleven tracks down Eight (Kali, the individual introduced at the beginning of the season premiere) in Chicago.

In Chicago, she finds Eight leading a street gang, who possess a certain rebellious spirit reminiscent of The Outsiders. Upon Eleven revealing her identity and purpose, the two quickly form a powerful, albeit complicated, connection. Eight, however, has distinct ideas for how she and her gang can utilize Eleven's formidable powers, primarily for vengeance against those who wronged them and their "mama."

A Near-Fatal Confrontation

Soon, Eleven joins Eight and the gang on a mission to confront and seek retribution from the man who ruined their mother's life. As they corner him, and just as Eleven is about to deliver a fatal blow, she spots a photograph of the man with his daughters. This glimpse of his humanity causes her to hesitate and stop. Eight, unyielding, pulls a gun, but Eleven intervenes, physically preventing her from firing. The man's children, startled by the commotion in their bedrooms, call 911, and the police are quickly en route. Before their escape, Eleven delivers a chilling warning to Eight: never to stop her again.

A Difficult Choice

Back at their hideout, Eight attempts to manipulate Eleven's mind, creating a vivid hallucination of Papa walking into the room, prompting Eleven to apologize. But just as the illusion settles, the Chicago PD storms their location. Using her own mind-bending tricks, Eight helps the group escape. However, in a pivotal moment of self-realization, Eleven chooses not to remain with Eight and her gang. Instead, she makes the difficult decision to leave them, opting to return to her friends in Hawkins, recognizing that Eight's path is not her own.

Review: A Powerful Standalone Journey

"The Lost Sister" stands as a strong and unique episode. I thoroughly enjoyed this standalone adventure, focusing on Eleven's quest to find her lost sister and the subsequent realization that Eight's darker philosophy and methods are fundamentally different from the values she has learned from Mike and her friends. Millie Bobby Brown once again delivers a powerful performance, showcasing Eleven's internal struggle and growth. The writing was excellent, effectively delving into Eleven's past while advancing her character arc.

Overall, I give this episode a 9 out of 10.

Chapter 8: The Mind Flayer

HOLY SHIPS! From beginning to end, "Chapter 8: The Mind Flayer" had me either standing up or perched on the very edge of my seat. This episode is a relentless onslaught of tension, delivering one of the season's most intense and pivotal chapters.

Under Siege: Will's Connection and Bob's Sacrifice

The episode picks up immediately from Chapter 6, with the Upside Down creatures having breached and overrun the lab. Mike urgently tells Joyce to put Will to sleep, believing that Will's connection to the Mind Flayer is what's allowing the creatures to communicate and track them. After asking Will a crucial, rapid-fire question, Joyce makes the agonizing decision to sedate him.

Dr. Owens and Hopper manage to reach Joyce, Mike, Bob, and Will, leading them towards the control room, which appears to be their only apparent escape route. Once inside, the power suddenly goes out, leaving it up to Bob to heroically save the day. Bob not only works to restore power but also bravely navigates the creatures away from their escape path.

In a truly heartbreaking sequence, Bob is the last to make it out. With Dr. Owens's guidance, he's made it to safety. But in a tragic turn that viewers have come to dread (the "Barb treatment," as you aptly put it), Bob momentarily slips up. As he steps out of a closet, he knocks over a broomstick, the sound alerting one of the creatures. It chases Bob, and just as he appears to escape death, the creature bursts through the doors and brutally attacks him, a devastating blow to the group.

The Interrogation and a Crucial Message

Hopper escorts a distraught Joyce out, and they, along with Jonathan, Nancy, Lucas, Dustin, and Steve, manage to escape the facility in Nancy's car. They all head back to Joyce's house, desperate to understand what these terrifying creatures are. Mike and the kids theorize that the creature is communicating through Will's mind, and they soon realize that Will himself is still trapped within, communicating via Morse code. What follows is a compelling "interrogation," where they communicate with Will by recounting cherished memories – from birthdays and drawings to music and the very first time Mike and Will met. These scenes, particularly those delivered by Joyce and Mike, are deeply emotional and memorable. They successfully extract a vital message: "Close Gate," which likely refers to the gate to the Upside Down that Eleven previously used.

Eleven's Shocking Return

However, all plans are fragile. The phone in the house rings twice, a clear signal that the creature has located them. Joyce quickly sedates Will again, and everyone is on full alert, bracing for an attack. A beast appears to be circling the house until it emits a piercing scream, and what looks like it jumped through the window... but then it's revealed to be dead. Suddenly, the locks on the front door begin to click open, one by one. As the door swings wide, everyone's faces register pure shock: Eleven is back!

Review: A Masterpiece of Tension and Emotion

Oh my gosh, "The Mind Flayer" was definitely one of the most exciting episodes of the season! It had the perfect mix of edge-of-your-seat suspense, hilarious moments, and some really touching emotional scenes. And can we talk about that iconic ending with Eleven’s return? So amazing! I’m also curious, like your brother, if Hopper might end up being a father figure for Will – their bond is so strong! Additionally, Mike’s heartfelt eulogy for Bob was a truly touching gesture; it effectively demonstrated the profound impact Bob had on the group. The performances from Winona Ryder (Joyce), Finn Wolfhard (Mike), and especially Noah Schnapp (Will) were just incredible and super memorable. I definitely had to grab some tissues for this one! 

Overall, this episode is a tour de force, delivering on all fronts. I give "The Mind Flayer" a 9.5/10!

You can catch Season 2 of Stranger Things available on Netflix now, along with Season 1.  

Holy Ships!! Stranger Things Season 2, "Chapter 5: Dig Dug"/"Chapter 6: The Spy"

Chapter 5: Dig Dug

In "Chapter 5: Dig Dug," so much unfolded that I almost echoed Will's jaw-dropping moment at the episode's conclusion. This installment propelled the narrative forward on multiple fronts, delivering both chilling new threats and profound character moments.

Dart's Close Encounter & Dustin's Cleverness

We pick up with Dustin's immediate dilemma: how to safely remove Dart from the house. His initial plan involves leaving a trail of food leading to the basement. It's working, until Dart senses Dustin's presence, forcing him to execute a brave Plan B: a direct confrontation to knock the creature into the basement. Dustin is sporting a pretty cool outfit that reminded me a bit of The Mighty Ducks.

Lucas & Max: Truth and Turmoil

Lucas attempts to mend his relationship with Max. After seeking advice from his father, he takes a leap of faith and tells Max the truth about the events of last year in Hawkins. While she's initially skeptical, his earnest conviction seems to win her over. However, trouble brews as her unpleasant older brother spots her with Lucas again and is clearly not pleased – this guy continues to be genuinely unsettling.

Eleven's Painful Truth

Eleven finally ventures out to see her mother, drawn by the flickering lights in the house, reminiscent of Will's Upside Down communication. Using her powers once more, she relives her mother's harrowing journey: a difficult labor, Papa stealing her after birth and making her mother believe she was dead, and her mother's desperate, armed quest to find her. Eleven also witnesses the brutal circumstances that led to her mother's current catatonic state, allowing her to finally understand that her mother's repetitive phrases are fragmented memories of those traumatic times.

The Rescue Mission & A Disturbing Link

As Joyce and Mike focus on Will's worsening condition, Will experiences a vision of Hopper in deep trouble, trapped underground amidst the Upside Down's sprawling vines. Moreover, Hopper was sprayed by the grotesque flora, and his subsequent coughing up of dark matter suggests he may now be infected, mirroring Will's own ordeal. With time running out, Joyce enlists Bob's help. After much effort to get the "brainy dude" to understand the gravity of the situation, they drive and locate Hopper's car.

Joyce and Bob bravely venture underground to search for Hopper. They eventually find him, entangled and suffocated by vines. They manage to cut him free in some truly creepy yet cool scene shots. Just as they rescue him, DOE agents arrive and pull them out. A terrifying development occurs as the agents begin to burn off the vines: Will simultaneously suffers a violent seizure and screams as if he is being burned, cementing the horrifying connection between him and the Upside Down's growing presence.

Review: A Packed and Potent Episode

"Dig Dug" was a powerful episode, packed with pivotal moments. From the chilling reveal of Eleven's mother's past to the poignant and intense rescue of Hopper, this episode had a lot to offer and then some. I found the performances from everyone to be excellent, truly bringing the heightened stakes to life. While the Nancy and Jonathan storyline felt a bit lighter compared to the other intense developments, it didn't detract from the episode's overall impact. I'm left wondering if Hopper is indeed infected like Will, given that disturbing spray and his subsequent coughing.

Overall, I give this episode an 8.5 out of 10.

Chapter 6: The Spy

HOLY SHIPS! "Chapter 6: The Spy" proves that revenge is indeed best served deadly. This episode is a non-stop thrill ride, packed with escalating threats, chilling medical mysteries, and some truly fantastic character moments.

Will's Horrifying Diagnosis & "The Spy"

The episode kicks off with an incredibly intense and even scary scene, as doctors and nurses desperately search for the source of Will's agony, claiming he's burned, yet displaying no physical marks. Noah Schnapp's performance here is utterly captivating, conveying immense pain and confusion. As Dr. Owens' team performs tests, the horrifying truth emerges: Will is not just seeing the Upside Down, he's the host to a virus, allowing him to be connected directly to the creatures. Mike aptly dubs him "The Spy," a chilling revelation that means Will can see and relay the creatures' actions.

Underground Attack & Shifting Threats

Believing Will's connection is aiding their efforts, a DOE team is dispatched underground to burn out the remaining Upside Down tendrils where Hopper was previously trapped. However, their mission quickly turns to horror as Dart and its newly formed gang — fresh from attempting to attack Dustin, Lucas, Max, and Steve at the junkyard — ambush the team. These monstrous creatures brutally kill the agents and, by the episode's end, are shown moving relentlessly towards the DOE lab itself.

Junkyard Showdown & A 'Tremors' Homage

Meanwhile, Dustin and Steve devise a plan to lure Dart, who escaped Dustin's basement, out into the open. Lucas and Max catch up, joining them at the junkyard to prepare for Dart's arrival. What they don't anticipate is that Dart isn't alone. This sequence quickly transforms into one hell of a thrilling homage to Tremors, as multiple demogorgon-like creatures emerge from beneath the ground, creating a frantic, action-packed confrontation.

Review: A Relentless Thrill Ride

"I just loved 'The Spy'! It was such a thrilling ride from start to finish, and I was glued to my seat the entire time. The way Will's condition unfolded alongside Dustin and the gang's nail-biting adventure kept the excitement pumping. On the other hand, the Nancy and Jonathan storyline felt like a calm before the storm, providing a welcome respite from the intense action. I also want to give a shout-out to Paul Reiser for his fantastic work as Dr. Owens. After six episodes, he’s truly been a standout! He strikes a perfect balance between comedy and drama, reminding me of his amazing performance in Aliens. His character really adds something special to this season. All in all, this episode does a great job of mixing medical mystery, creature horror, and genuine suspense, making it one of the best of the season. I’d rate "The Spy" a solid 9/10!

You can catch Season Two of Stranger Things available on Netflix now, and Season One too, along with Blu-ray and DVD.

Stranger Things Season 2 "Chapter 3: The Pollywog"/"Chapter 4 Will the Wise"

Chapter 3: The Pollywog

In Stranger Things Season 2, "Chapter 3: The Pollywog," Dustin makes a surprising discovery at home. At the same time, Eleven's growing desire for freedom leads to a significant act of disobedience against Hopper's strict rules.

Dustin's Curious Discovery & Will's Terrifying Vision

As soon as Dustin investigates the noise in his trash can from the previous episode, he finds a strange creature. He takes it inside, adding it to his collection of pets, much to the dismay of his pet turtle and mother's cat. What he's brought home appears to be a pollywog, with an insatiable appetite, especially for candy that Dustin readily provides.

He eagerly introduces the creature to Mike, Lucas, and Max, and they attempt to identify it, ultimately naming it Dart. However, Will soon recognizes the same scream he heard from a creature in the Upside Down and immediately freaks out. Dart quickly scurries away, leading the group on a chase. When Will finally confronts the creature, he suffers another terrifying episode involving the Upside Down. This time, he attempts to stand up for himself as Bob had advised, but the shadowy creature brutally extends its tendrils through his mouth and ears, possessing him.

Eleven's Quest for Freedom

Meanwhile, Eleven's longing to leave the cabin and see Mike intensifies, but Hopper continues to put off his promises, a frustration many can relate to with parental figures. As soon as Hopper leaves, Eleven, defying his orders, ventures out. She's briefly spotted by a mother and child, who then report her to the police. Undeterred, she presses on, determined to see Mike. However, she's heartbroken when she sees him seemingly enjoying time with another person (Max), leading her to retreat.

Review: Standout Performances and Emotional Proximity

"The Pollywog" was a very strong episode. The dual storylines of Hopper and Eleven, contrasted with Dustin and the boys' meeting and subsequent search for Dart, were equally compelling. I was on the edge of my seat when Eleven and Mike were so agonizingly close to seeing each other again. The writing of this episode was excellent, and the performances from both Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven) and Noah Schnapp (Will) were particularly outstanding, truly standing out in their respective emotional arcs.

Overall, I give this episode an 8/10!

Chapter 4: Will the Wise

As Joyce races to find Will, a multitude of other issues surface in "Chapter 4: Will the Wise," escalating the tension and deepening the mysteries in Hawkins.

Will's Worsening Condition & Hopper's Investigation

Joyce finds Will outside the school with Mike, locked in another trance-like vision of the Upside Down and its terrifying creature. After he awakens, he's taken home, struggling to articulate what he's experiencing. The next day, Will's condition worsens; his body temperature drops dangerously low, and he refuses a warm bath, finding the heat unbearable.

After numerous attempts, Joyce finally reaches Hopper, who quickly attends to the situation. Hopper tries to get Will to explain his visions, but Will, unable to find the words, communicates through frantic drawings. What initially appears as scribbles coalesce into a massive, unsettling puzzle revealing blue vines. This leads Hopper to a chilling realization, prompting him to head straight for the pumpkin patch.

Dart's Disturbing Evolution & Team Hawkins's Struggles

Dustin continues to keep Dart as a secret pet at home, feeding him more candy. Meanwhile, Mike, Lucas, and Max futilely search for Dart around the school. Mike confides in only Lucas and Dustin about the creature, explaining its connection to Will's episodes in the Upside Down. Later, Mike checks on Will, questioning Joyce about the creature he's seen.

While Mike is preoccupied, Lucas attempts to reconcile with Max, urging her to join their hunt for Dart. However, she's still hurt by Mike's earlier declaration that she's not a "real" member of the party. The two part ways, with Max heading off in her so-called brother's car (who, by the way, is proving to be a real pain).

Nancy & Jonathan's Dangerous Quest

Nancy and Jonathan embark on a dangerous mission to meet with Barb's parents and reveal the truth about her disappearance. Their efforts put them squarely in the crosshairs of the Department of Energy (DOE) and lead to an unsettling meeting with Dr. Owens. What seemed like a failed attempt turns into a victory, as Nancy cleverly records their conversation with Owens while inside the highly secure DOE building. What a move!

Eleven's Rebellion & Discoveries

One of the most compelling storylines in this episode revolves around Eleven and Hopper. Upon her return to the cabin, Hopper shifts into strict, "mean dad" mode, attempting to impress upon her the importance of his protective rules. Eleven, however, perceives this as a lie, leading to a dramatic outburst that trashes the cabin. Hopper, in response, confiscates all her comforts – from her beloved Eggos (a true tragedy!) to the television (a crime!), though he's forced to merely pull the plug on the TV due to her powers. After a night spent cleaning up the mess, Hopper offers a compromise: if she cleans the cabin, he'll repair the TV.

While cleaning, Eleven stumbles upon a hidden door concealing boxes filled with files marked "Hawkins Lab." Delving into the documents, she discovers her own file, complete with her name, "Jane," and information about her parents. Using her powers with the radio, she manages to momentarily glimpse her mother, but the vision vanishes when her mother calls out her name, "Jane."

Chilling Cliffhangers

The episode ends on a particularly creepy note, with a scene so unsettling I had to look away even though I knew it was coming. Dustin rushes to his room only to find Dart's tank shattered and a shed skin. He then hears guttural growls from the closet and sees blood on the floor. Peering inside, he discovers that Dart has grown significantly larger and is gruesomely devouring his cat. Shockingly, Dart is now shown as an early stage of the creature from Season One, with its terrifying, petal-like mouth opening like a blooming flower.

And let's not forget Hopper's chilling discovery: as soon as he deciphers Will's blue vine drawings, he heads to the pumpkin patch farm. Digging into the soil, he unearths something gross and blue, which leads him directly into a dark, tunnel-like structure that eerily resembles Will's visions of the Upside Down's inner workings.

Review: A Packed and Potent Episode

"Will the Wise" was an incredibly good episode, packed with pivotal moments. From the grotesque reveal of the cat being devoured by Dart to the poignant and sad scene of Eleven glimpsing her mother, and Hopper's horrifying discovery of the Upside Down tunnel, this episode truly had everything to offer and then some. I thoroughly enjoyed everyone's performance, but Millie Bobby Brown and Noah Schnapp once again delivered particularly standout work.

Overall, I give this episode a 9 out of 10.

You can catch Stranger Things Season 2 now on Netflix.

The Best Treat of All: Stranger Things "Chapter 1: MADMAX"/"Chapter 2: Trick or Treak, Freak"

"Chapter 1: MADMAX"

The season two premiere of Stranger Things, "Chapter 1: MADMAX," wasted no time plunging us back into the eerie and captivating world of Hawkins, Indiana. This episode introduces a new top video gamer in town, hints at escalating nightmares, and delivers a few genuinely shocking moments, expertly setting the tone for the season to come.

The Mystery Expands

The episode opens dramatically with a robbery a year after the events of Season 1. A group escapes in a van, and during a police chase, one member causes the pursuing officers to stop by seemingly making a bridge collapse – a hallucination, as we discover. This individual sports a tattoo with the number 008, immediately signaling that Eleven isn't the only one with unique abilities.

Things in Hawkins appear deceptively calm. Hopper, in his usual gruff yet endearing style, tries to ignore new arrivals at work, but finds himself dealing with a freelance journalist investigating Barb's disappearance. His routine is further disrupted by calls about someone's pumpkins being mysteriously ruined, hinting at a new, subtle strangeness brewing in the town.

Will's Lingering Trauma

Joyce is deeply concerned for Will after he experiences another vivid vision or dream of the Upside Down, featuring a terrifying storm cloud. Will is taken to see Dr. Owens, a Department of Energy executive now in charge of the lab. Owens conducts tests and questions Will about these visions, initially attributing them to PTSD, but the audience knows there's more to it.

Where is Eleven?

Amidst all the new characters and expanding mysteries, the lingering question of Eleven's whereabouts is finally answered in a jaw-dropping moment at the episode's close. As Hopper drives into the woods and walks towards a secluded cabin, the scene initially suggests a new home or perhaps a girlfriend. However, the revelation is far more thrilling: Eleven, now with curly hair, walks in to join Hopper for dinner, confirming her survival and his surprising role as her protector.

Review: A Perfect Tone-Setter

"MADMAX" was a fantastic episode that really captured the spirit of Stranger Things Season 2, just as I was hoping. It was such a joy to see these beloved characters return, especially Eleven, who was especially thrilling to see back and safe. Watching Mike, Dustin, Will, and Lucas rushing to the arcade was fun, but what truly made the episode stand out was its wonderful music, the introduction of the intriguing new character Max, and the charming chemistry between Joyce and Hopper – honestly, I think they might even be a better match than Joyce and Bob! The writing was superb, perfectly blending character moments, mystery, and atmosphere.

Overall, I give this episode a 9 out of 10.

"Chapter 2: Trick or Treat Freak"

It's Halloween in Hawkins, and "Chapter 2: Trick or Treat Freak" plunges us into the festivities with the gang ready for trick-or-treating. But the arrival of a new face creates tension among the group, while more profound mysteries and personal struggles begin to emerge, particularly for one beloved character.

Halloween Hijinks & Shifting Dynamics

Mike and the boys are thrilled, decked out in their Ghostbusters costumes, only to find themselves as the sole ones dressed up at school. When Dustin and Lucas invite Max to join their trick-or-treating adventures, her initial silence is broken by a jump-scare reveal of her own costume, which clearly doesn't sit well with Mike. This scene immediately highlights the shifting group dynamics with the introduction of Max.

Will's Lingering Visions

Will's unsettling visions of the Upside Down continue, now featuring a menacing giant creator that he's meticulously drawn. Joyce remains deeply worried by these drawings. During trick-or-treating, Will experiences another terrifying encounter with the creator, triggered by other kids cruelly calling him "Zombie Boy." Mike quickly intervenes, taking Will home, where they discuss the disturbing visions.

Eleven's Secret Struggle for Return

The episode masterfully weaves in Eleven's untold story of survival and her desperate attempt to return after her apparent demise in the Season 1 finale. We see her navigating the Upside Down, searching for Mike, before finding her way back to the real world through the same opening. Her attempt to return to Mike's house is thwarted when she spots FBI agents and police there. After Mike briefly sees her through the window, she quickly flees, forced to rely on her survival skills to hunt, protect herself, and find suitable clothing.

The narrative frequently flashes between her past survival and her present frustration. Eleven desperately wants to trick-or-treat, believing her ghost costume will make her invisible, but Hopper refuses to let her leave the cabin. He attempts to compromise by getting off work early and bringing a plethora of candy. Still, his plans are derailed when he's pulled into investigating the mystery of the dead pumpkins and goo-covered trees—another unsettling sign of the Upside Down's influence.

In a particularly heartbreaking moment, an upset Eleven telepathically attempts to reach Mike through a TV screen. For a fleeting minute, Mike's excitement suggests he senses her presence, but he walks away, doubting his own perception, leaving Eleven visibly heartbroken despite being so physically close.

A Cliffhanger Creature

The episode culminates with a chilling surprise: as Dustin arrives home, he hears a strange noise near his trash can. He investigates, opening the lid to a startling revelation that sets the stage for the third episode's mysteries.

Review: Eleven Steals the Show

"Trick or Treat Freak" was a fantastic episode that truly shined thanks to Eleven's captivating story. I think this episode features one of Millie Bobby Brown's best performances, showing her incredible growth and deep emotion as Eleven deals with loneliness and heartbreak. The subplot with Jonathan and Nancy, while not the most memorable part, was still enjoyable. Sean Astin as Bob also continues to bring a charming mix of humor and awkwardness as Joyce's new boyfriend.

Overall, this episode strikes a lovely balance between exciting new threats and heartfelt moments. I’d rate it a 9/10!

You can catch the second season of Stranger Things, available now on Netflix, along with Season One.