The second part of the final season of *Stranger Things* premiered on December 25th, delivering a significant breakup, potential fatalities – and a pivotal moment for Will’s exploration of his sexuality.
The episode featured Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) attempting to maintain control of the Upside Down, while Max (Sadie Sink) and Holly (Nell Fisher) presented a formidable challenge, ultimately leading Vecna to recognize Will Byers’ (Noah Schnapp) access to his mind.
Fortunately, Max managed to return to Hawkins, but Holly was trapped deeper within, as all the kids – except Derek (Jake Connelly) – turned against her. The remaining group then focused on devising a strategy to neutralize the principal antagonist.
Dustin Henderson (Gaten Matarazzo) unearthed crucial information, revealing that the Upside Down was actually a bridge connecting our world to a place teeming with exotic matter, a location known as The Abyss. Vecna’s ultimate goal was to merge the two worlds, a plan the group had to thwart.
Before engaging in battle, El (Millie Bobby Brown), influenced by Kali (Linnea Berthelsen), concluded that they couldn’t save the world and return. Kali instructed Eleven (now known as “El”) to retreat for her own safety.
A significant development occurred when Will, spurred by a conversation with Vecna, realized he had unknowingly contributed to the creation of the Upside Down through his mind being possessed years earlier. Driven by this realization, he confronted his fears and came out to his loved ones, receiving their unwavering support as they prepared for a final, desperate confrontation.
Max, having emerged from a two-year trance, reunited with Holly, initially attempting to convince her she too could return from the Upside Down – a mission that ultimately failed due to Vecna’s persistent hold on Holly. Max eventually reconciled with Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), regaining her strength while utilizing a wheelchair.
Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) primarily focused on resolving his ongoing issues with Dustin, while contemplating a specific plan implemented at the episode’s conclusion. Robin Buckley (Maya Hawke) relayed the truth about the unfolding events to Vickie (Amybeth McNulty). Erica Sinclair (Priah Ferguson) aided Mr. Clarke (Randy Havens) in understanding the events in Hawkins.
The backstory of Henry Creel (now Vecna) was revealed: Max and Holly witnessed him in a cave assisting a man before he was fatally shot by an unknown assailant, whom he then murdered. The remaining portion of the episode showcased Vecna’s attempts to manipulate the situation, with Holly, Max, and Will complicating his scheme, culminating in Vecna conducting a séance and taking control of the children.
Key relationships shifted during the episode, including the breakup between Mike Wheeler (Noah Schnapp) and Nancy Wheeler (Winona Ryder), triggered by his inability to articulate his feelings. Jonathan Byers (Charlie Heaton) also revealed long-held secrets to Nancy, leading to their separation. Will’s coming out was supported by his friends, and Steve acknowledged his continued friendship with Dustin.
The episode also offered resolution for long-standing tensions between Steve and Dustin, as well as expanding the audience’s understanding of the origins of Vecna and his connection to the events unfolding.