The first volume of “Stranger Things 5” has landed on Netflix, and Hawkins is in more peril than ever. The initial four episodes of the final season have delivered terrifying monsters, shocking twists, and a game-changing cliffhanger that redefines one of the show’s original characters. Here are the biggest takeaways so far.
- The Wheeler family is brutally attacked, with Karen and Ted left for dead and young Holly Wheeler abducted by a Demogorgon.
- Vecna’s connection to Hawkins deepens as he is revealed to be Holly’s seemingly imaginary friend, “Mr. Whatsit.”
- An iconic ’80s pop hit provides a moment of joy before turning sinister, continuing the show’s tradition of memorable music moments.
- Will Byers undergoes a stunning transformation, unleashing powers that could change the tide of the war against the Upside Down.
A Horrifying Start for the Wheelers
The final season wastes no time plunging its characters into terror. The premiere ends with a horrifying sequence as a Demogorgon invades the Wheeler home. In a scene reminiscent of classic ’80s horror, Karen Wheeler (Cara Buono) is viciously attacked after dismissing her daughter Holly’s fears about monsters. The attack leaves both Karen and Ted (Joe Chrest) hospitalized, and Holly (Nell Fisher) is dragged into a foreboding dreamscape, setting up a harrowing rescue mission for Nancy and Mike.
Vecna’s Sinister New Connection
This season leans heavily into the lore of Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time,” a book Holly is seen reading. The gang discovers that Holly’s mysterious imaginary friend, whom she calls “Mr. Whatsit,” is none other than Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) himself. This chilling revelation proves that the archvillain has found a new, insidious way to torment the families of Hawkins, using a child’s innocence as his cover.
Nostalgia and Menace Collide
“Stranger Things” is known for its killer soundtrack, and Season 5 continues the trend. In a standout sequence, Holly dances around her room to Tiffany’s 1987 hit “I Think We’re Alone Now” after receiving a cassette player from her new “friend.” The joyful, nostalgic moment is artfully twisted into dread when a knock at the door interrupts her, leading her into the woods and into Vecna’s trap.
Will Byers Unleashes His Power
The biggest shock of Volume 1 arrives in its final moments. After four seasons as the primary victim of the Upside Down, Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) finally fights back. In a climactic scene, he taps into a powerful energy, turning the tables on the Demogorgons in a display that mirrors the abilities of both Eleven and Vecna. With his eyes glowing and nose bleeding, Will’s transformation from victim to “Sorcerer” marks a thrilling turning point for his character. Is he becoming a hero like Eleven, or is he being corrupted by the very evil he has fought for so long?
What’s Next for Stranger Things 5?
The Duffer Brothers have left fans with massive questions. Will’s newfound power is sure to be a central focus, but Holly’s fate in Vecna’s clutches remains the immediate priority. Fans will have to wait to see how these storylines resolve, as “Stranger Things 5” Volume 2 is set to premiere this Christmas.
Image Referance: https://www.cnn.com/2025/11/27/entertainment/stranger-things-season-5-recap-tvrep