"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.