Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 1 drops with a lot of expectations on it, mostly because everyone knows this is the last ride. And honestly, it really does feel like the show is trying to go out with a bang. Even without spoiling anything major, the new episodes bring back that classic 80’s vibe and the creepy tension the show is known for, while also getting pretty emotional at times.
The pacing in Volume 1 is one of the strongest parts. The episodes move fast, sometimes a little too fast, but not in a way that makes them confusing. Instead, it feels like every scene matters and is building toward something bigger later on. The storylines all connect in ways that make sense, and the show still focuses on the main friend group, which is honestly what many fans care about the most. It feels like the characters are older and more serious now, which fits because the stakes are higher than ever.
Visually, the season looks amazing. Netflix definitely didn’t cut back on the budget. The monsters, the lighting, even the sound effects feel bigger and more intense than earlier seasons. There are a few scenes that honestly look like they came out of a full-on movie and not just a TV show. That makes the world feel way more real.
The acting this season is also really strong. A lot of the cast gives some of their best performances so far, and you can tell they’re trying to close out the show in a meaningful way. Some moments can feel a little dramatic or heavy, but it still works because the characters have been through so much already.
If anything, the biggest issue with Volume 1 is that it obviously is saving the huge stuff for Volume 2. Sometimes it feels like it’s holding back on purpose, which is kind of annoying if you want answers now. But still, as a setup for the ending, it does its job.
Overall, Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 1 is exciting, emotional and honestly pretty intense. It makes the wait for Volume 2 even harder, which is probably exactly what the show wanted. I rate volume 1 a 9/10, and I’m very excited to see volume two released on December 25, and the finale released on December 31.
