Stranger Things Season 5 Finale Review: The much-awaited ‘Stranger Things’ season 5 finale has finally arrived, and the show couldn’t have ended on a better note than this. Though the earlier episodes of the show faced a lot of criticism, the final episode stands out as an emotional and carefully crafted conclusion. ‘Chapter 8: The Right Side Up‘ is the longest episode (2hr 8min) in the show’s history, and it signals the creators’ intent to give the story the send-off it deserves. Let’s discuss more about the finale episode in this Stranger Things Season 5 finale review.
- Premiere Date: December 31st, 2025 (In India 1st January 2026)
- Premiere on: Netflix
- Directors: Duffer Brothers
- Finale Episode Runtime: 128 Minutes (2hr 8min)
- Rating: 4/5
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Where to watch Stranger Things Season 5 Finale?
Stranger Things Season 5 Finale Story
The finale is not focused on constant spectacle, but it moves to purposeful storytelling. It doesn’t rely on action, because the narrative allows space for emotional resolution and character-driven moments. The finale episode is written very smartly, as it ties the long-running plot threads with maturity, and the chaos surrounding Hawkins is addressed with restraint. The episode focuses on closure and reflection; it reminds the viewers that Stranger Things has always been about human connections.
Cast Performances
The Stranger Things season 5 finale has very strong and emotionally grounded performances from all the cast. Millie Bobby Brown has shown her class as she played the role of a composed and mature Eleven. She strongly conveyed strength and vulnerability with subtlety. David Harbour added depth and emotional weight to Jim Hopper with his quiet and protective moments.
Jamie Campbell Bower has once again impressed with his effective and unsettling presence as Vecna. Sadie Sink adds emotional intensity as Max. His acting during the dreamlike sequences is so natural and effortless. Finn Wolfhard and Noah Schnapp have also done a good job, as they dropped a restrained and impactful scene. But they lacked that much-needed depth in their characters.
The supporting cast of Stranger Things Season 5 Finale, in the form of Joe Keery, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, and Maya Hawke, did an excellent job to maintain the chemistry.
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Positive Aspects
What works best in the Stranger Things season 5 finale is its emotional precision. The episode confidently re-enters the heart of the series. It takes us on the nostalgic ride of friendship, sacrifice, and the quiet fear beneath the supernatural chaos. Nostalgia is present but never indulgent. However, the finale is not just about emotions, but it is filled with tension. This finale is a great end to Stranger Things season 5, especially after the slow-paced previous episodes.
Negative Aspects
This does not completely erase the flaws of the season. There are some narrative arcs in the Stranger Things season 5 finale that feel rushed in retrospect due to earlier pacing issues. A few character journeys could have benefited from deeper development across the season. The ending is very good, as it delivers emotional satisfaction, but inconsistencies in the broader season are visible.
Direction and VFX
The Duffer Brothers’ direction in the finale is controlled and confident. It favours the atmosphere and silence that were needed. Visual effects are polished and cinematic. It is designed to enhance the tension without overpowering the story. The darker tone, when it is combined with careful sound design and lighting, works very well to create an immersive viewing experience.
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Conclusion
All in all, the Stranger Things season 5 finale is a worthy farewell to one of Netflix’s most iconic series. However, it does not really undo every misstep from the season, but it works very well to reframe them in a thoughtful and human way. The final episode leaves the series on a note that feels true to its origins. Stranger Things season 5 finale is emotional, grounded, and sincere.
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