Season 5 of Stranger Things opens about 18 months after the events of season 4, with Hawkins under military control and still reeling from multiple rifts to the Upside Down. As the group splits up to track down Vecna, early reactions from Mount students relent a mix of excitement and skepticism.
“I honestly thought it could be better, I feel like Vecna is Will’s dad and TikTok is predicting it all” Anna Marshall ‘27 said.
Episode 1: “ The Connection”
Will’s past resurfaces as Vecna grows stronger
In episode 1, the series reveals that Will Byer’s original disappearance in 1983, was intentional. Vecna targeted him to forge a long term connection with the Upside Down. A new expedition ends with a deadly Demogorgon attack, signaling that Vecna is stronger than ever. Some Mounties were thrilled by the rising stakes.
“This season was SO GAS, literally so good but kinda scary what’s gonna happen but the plot twists were so good. My favorite episode was the 4th because Will looked so good and got powers.” Willa Foley ‘26.
Others said that the writing didn’t always keep up with the tension.
“It was good, I think the dialogue was corny and the acting wasn’t as good, but I thought episode 4 was the best one. “ Ava Smith ‘26 said.
Episode 2:“ Mr. Whatsit”
A child Agustin raises the stakes and reveals Vecma’s new target
Episode 2 raises the danger even further as the Demogorgon breaks into the Wheeler home and abducts Holly Wheeler. The group discovers that Vecna had been influencing her through an imaginary figure named Mr. Whatsit, suggesting younger children may be especially vulnerable.
“I thought the dialogue was also corny. Compared to the other seasons, the way they talked to each other was natural, but this season it felt forced and awkward. “ Shaylee Gura ‘26 said.
Episode 3:“ The Failed Trap”
A botched rescue mistrust and theories about Will’s Fate
By Episode 3, the group attempts to rescue another potential victim by setting a trap, but the plan falls apart. Their failure exposes cracks within the friend group, tension, mistrust and the growing complexity of Vecna’s strategy. One Mountie said that the show is shifting dramatically from where it began.
“It’s extremely good, however it has changed so much since the first season and I’m not sure how I feel about it. I don’t think Byler is going to happen but I have a prediction that Will is going to lose his eyes because of the connection to Vecna.” Sophia Settlelen ‘26 said.
Episode 4:“ Eight Returns”
Kali’s capture and Will’s powers ignite the season’s biggest battle
Episode 4 delivers the season’s biggest surprise so far. The military captures Kali, “ Eight “ from Season 2, while demogorgons swarm the Upside Down to kidnap children on Vecna’s orders. During the massive fight, the group discovers Will has powers, and he destroys the demogorgons in a dramatic reveal. Senior Shannon Shields said this was her favorite episode.
“I think it was really good, I really did not expect the ending, I’m also scared of volume 2 because I heard all of the actors were crying and 6 people were supposed to die. In volume 1 my favorite character was Erica, she was so sassy I loved her.” Shannon Shields ‘26 said.
