Despite all criticism Stranger Things legacy will be unmatched for years to come, explained in-depth

A snapshot from Stranger Things finale episode
A snapshot from Stranger Things finale episode's trailer - via @Netflix's YouTube channel

With the end of Stranger Things approaching, the chatter surrounding the series continues to grow hotter. Some enjoy season 5 volume 2 while other fans think that the progression of the narrative doesn't match their pace, while there are several who argue that the show has extended beyond its original intent. Regardless of the various feelings regarding the series, one truth remains: Stranger Things has carved out a place in history that will prove difficult to replicate for many years, if not decades, to come.

Nine years ago, in 2016, the show was started. While it can be assumed that most viewers may not have viewed every episode of the series, people are still familiar with many of the main characters, such as the Demogorgon, the children riding their bikes, and the town that they live in - Hawkins. It is an example of a show having a monumental impact. Even more remarkable is that such a production has remained in the spotlight for so long.

The success of Stranger Things has created considerable conversation in the industry because people recognize it as one of the largest shows in history. Many people, even those who have complaints about it, all agree that it has defined a generation of television. It began as a story about some kids who go missing and what happened to them, along with a girl who could do things with her mind, and today it has become a worldwide hit with hundreds of thousands of fans anticipating its final episode.


Why Stranger Things stayed popular even through criticism

Throughout many parts of Season 5, Volume 2, the audience for Stranger Things had several complaints about the plot being slow or that there was too much time focused on a small number of the main characters. A number of viewers have also complained that they thought there was way too much time between seasons. However, what is interesting is that the viewer base for the series has remained strong despite these problems.

One big reason for this is the emotional side of the story. The supernatural plot with monsters and the Upside Down was exciting, but what kept people attached were the characters. The friendship between the kids, the bond between Hopper and Eleven, Lucas and Max's relationship, and the many coming-of-age moments made the show feel personal. These emotional beats made people forgive many of the slower parts.

The show also took risks. Stranger Things 5 brought new characters like Derek Turnbow, who started off tough but eventually grew into a brave and "delightful" figure. Holly Wheeler, played by Nell Fisher, also got more attention, showing how even small characters could give the story new depth. These new additions helped keep the show fresh.


How will Stranger Things' legacy last even after it ends?

Stranger Things is no longer simply a Netflix series; it has had an effect on fashion, music industry rankings, sales figures of toys, and where tourists go. The resurgence of Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill reaching first place on the music charts in 2022 is proof of that. There are very few shows that could make such an early released song hit the top of the charts again.

The show also proved something important for streaming platforms. It showed that a streaming series could hold the world's attention the same way big network shows used to do. Every season release became an event. People stayed awake at night to binge-watch. Memes flooded the internet. Conversations lasted for months.

In the future, many shows will try to follow the same formula: a mix of friendship, fantasy, fear, humour, and heart. But it will not be easy to repeat. The characters in Stranger Things felt like real kids growing up in front of the world. The viewers watched them change, struggle, and take brave steps. This kind of long-term connection does not happen often.

Even if some viewers say season 5 volume 2 moved too slowly or that certain storylines could have ended sooner, they still admit that the show left a strong emotional mark. It made people remember what it felt like to be young, scared, hopeful, and determined.

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Once the Upside Down finally disappears from screens, what will stay is the memory of a group of kids riding their bikes through quiet streets, facing something far bigger than them but never backing down. That spirit is what will keep Stranger Things alive in people's hearts for many years.

Edited by Sohini Biswas