Stranger Things (2016-2025)

Stranger Things

• I was honestly never too interested in this show, mostly because I never jumped on the Stranger Things train when it first came out. With the series concluding, I decided to basically binge it during the month of December, so I wouldn’t see any spoilers. Let me tell you, that’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This show is so freaking good, even through its cringey moments and sometimes questionable moments. I can understand why it’s so universally loved, even despite the people who complain about it. The storyline is very addicting, with a steady flow of awesome new characters, very fun villains, and Doctor Who-esque vibes. The first season is absolutely perfect in every sense, and I watched the whole thing in about a day. It had me in its clutches. The rest of the seasons aren’t as good, but still very solid and intoxicating. I like how each season kind of builds up to the series ending, rather than constantly bringing in new villains and new stories. Everything is connected, and it’s a pretty smooth watch from the first episode to the last (minus the obvious age jumps between seasons). I will definitely acknowledge how the writing can be corny and downright silly at times, with some plot holes and random, out of place details. But for the most part, it’s easy to look past and just get taken in by the characters and environment. The performances for the most part are great, though as the kids got older, it got a little more goofier. But the good kind of goofy. The VFX are also mostly great. Sometimes they’re amazing, sometimes they’re extremely obvious, but it helps build the charm of the show. Lastly, the music is retro and very sciencey. I don’t know what sciencey means, but it makes sense. Overall, this show is very fun, and I’m certainly glad I watched it. I wish I started it back in 2016, but it’s fine. Now was a good time. I would recommend it to all sci-fi/drama fans. This show is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!