- Season 1
- Season 4
- Season 2
- Season 3
Reasons for my order:
Season 1:
This season remains the strongest of the series, as it convinces with its clear, stringent plot and the introduction of the characters. The atmosphere is unique, the mystery element runs through the entire plot and keeps the tension constantly high. The chemistry between the children and the nostalgic references to 80s films and music play a large part in the success. The characters, such as Eleven, Mike and Hopper, are fresh and dynamic, and the soundtrack remains iconic to this day. The only weakness could be that some of the supporting characters are not yet fully developed, but the focus on the main story means that this hardly matters. Even though I only started the series - and therefore the first season - after the real hype, the first season feels the most rounded of all, is told comparatively slowly - in the style of the 80s - and takes the time it needs to develop. In addition, El and her iconic buzzcut are introduced and the references to D&D remain within a pleasant framework and therefore seem authentic. Troy is a pretty exciting mini-antagonist and also quite realistic. Turning the board around to represent the UD is also a simple trick... Such simple story lines are unfortunately overshadowed by more complicated plot lines in the later seasons: Sometimes less is simply more. The only "real plot hole" in season 1 is that the Byers' dog just suddenly disappeared afterwards.
Season 2:
The sequel largely maintains the quality and offers a dense atmosphere that echoes season 1. Will's dark obsession and the development of the relationship between Eleven and Hopper are particularly outstanding. The Halloween setting adds a nostalgic charm, and the character development is strong - especially for characters like Steve, who undergoes an unexpected transformation. The humorous tone within the group also remains authentic and natural. One highlight is the scene in which Lucas and Dustin have a laugh about “Totally Tubular” - it seems over the top, but still appropriate. One weakness, however, is the episode “The Lost Sister”, which interrupts the pace of the season and doesn't really contribute to the main plot. In addition, the plot partly repeats motifs from season 1 without offering much that is new.
Season 3:
Season 3 is often perceived as the weakest, although it does offer some entertaining elements. The dynamic between Dustin, Steve and Robin makes for the funniest scenes of the series, and the overall humor is at an all-time high. The action scenes, such as the fight against the Mind Flayer, are spectacularly staged. However, in terms of content, the season feels like a “filler” - many storylines contribute little to the main story. The Russian storyline is exaggerated, but at least entertaining, while scenes such as the argument about the taste of the new Coke or the hospital sequence seem unnecessary and irrelevant. Erica, who is newly introduced, also leaves a mixed impression: her snotty nature comes across as exaggerated and artificial, making her seem less authentic. The only really relevant addition to the story is Billy's connection to the Mind Flayer, which is later linked to Vecna.
Season 4:
The fourth season takes the series to a new level with its epic staging and emotional depth. Vecna as the antagonist brings back much-needed focus and adds a new dimension to the series by reinterpreting events from the earlier seasons (such as Will's obsession). The parallel storylines - Hawkins, Russia and California - add variety, even if they're not all equally strong. Max's escape from Vecna is one of the best moments of the series and shows the drama of the season at its best. Nevertheless, there are weaknesses: The Nina project is convoluted and slows the pace, while Dr. Brenner's return is a questionable plot hole. Overall, however, season 4 manages to cleverly link the story to earlier events and build towards an emotional finale.
