5 Stranger Things episodes that were too good

Stranger Things has managed to become one of the most popular television shows to have ever been made in almost no time. Its writing, performances, and production have not only struck a chord with a wide range of audiences, but have also impressed critics, making the show a favorite among most.

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The production value has been going up with every subsequent season, and the writing seems consistent too. Employing some of the best talent out there, Stranger Things has managed to set the bar really high in terms of quality of writing and filmmaking, while simultaneously appealing to the masses.

Here are some of the finest episodes of the show so far in terms of the stories they tell in themselves and as part of the larger story.

From The Upside Down to The Gate: Stranger Things episodes that knocked it out of the park

1) The Bathtub (Season 1, Episode 7)

A still from The Bathtub (Image via Netflix)

One of the most interesting things about Stranger Things is the way each of the many characters are written. There is a distinct vibe to each of them, the way they think, and their priorities.

In The Bathtub, all the different characters and groups in the show finally interact to piece together their findings and discover the evil behind what is happening in town. This episode also features a thrilling chase where a van is flipped. This one comes in the more climactic part of the season when Will, who until then does not enjoy as much screen time, gets to display some courage.

2) The Upside Down (Season 1, Episode 8)

A still from The Upside Down (Image via Netflix)

The Upside Down is the episode that follows right after The Bathtub. This one is also the finale of the season, making it a thrilling watch for everything that is resolved through it. Perhaps Steve’s transformation into a useful character who isn’t so bad after all is one of the best parts of the episode and the season itself.

Some blood is shed in this one as Jonathan and Nancy take on the Demogorgon. It also has the much-awaited getting together of Mike and Eleven, where he explains the concept of a crush to her and they end up kissing. Hopper too makes some sacrifices and comes to a compromise with Dr. Brenner.

While most shows leave abrupt cliffhangers to keep the audience hooked for the next season, Stranger Things is very clever in leaving a half-resolved climax that is emotional and sets up for another season. The Upside Down is everything you look for in a finale episode.

3) The Spy (Season 2, Episode 6)

A still from The Spy (Image via Netflix)

In a strange turn of events, this episode features Will being under the control of the demon and posing a threat to himself and those around him. This is probably one of the most well-executed twists of the season and the show itself. The dilemma of what the next plan of action is takes over the rest of the narrative.

The episode is fairly experimental in how it treats the boys’ interaction with the DemoDogs. The episode jumps between Will’s threats and the fight with the DemoDogs and otherworldly creatures. Will’s behavior becomes almost erratic, and the supernatural elements in this part of the story begin to get scarier by the minute. Despite covering a lot of different plotlines all at once, The Spy manages to be engaging and clear.

4) The Gate (Season 2, Episode 9)

A still from The Gate (Image via Netflix)

This one features the most awaited moment in the season - Eleven reuniting with the boys. However, it is amidst a lot of chaos and threat, making the moment a short one and immediately shifting to the more urgent matters.

As usual, the characters go on their individual missions to achieve a larger goal of having to shut the gate to the Upside Down. The Stranger Things season 9 finale makes the wait worth it. There is a wholesome interaction between Hopper and Eleven, where they both admit to behaving recklessly and Eleven then mobilizes her anger to fight the demon away.

Further, there are emotional takeaways of Mike and Eleven dancing together and finally being in a safe and happy space. The Gate gave Stranger Things one of the best finales any season had seen. The resolution in this one too is more satisfying than the first season.

5) The Massacre at Hawkins Lab (Season 4, Episode 7)

A still from The Massacre at Hawkins Lab (Image via Netflix)

The Massacre at Hawkins Lab is the finale of the first volume of Stranger Things' season 4, and it has multiple redeeming factors that make the entire volume worth the wait. The truth about Vecna’s real identity is cinematically revealed as the episode simultaneously explores Eleven’s past. Flashbacks of Vecna’s creation also unveil realities of the Upside Down’s origin.

In a sad turn of events, Nancy falls prey to Vecna, and a heroic Hopper fights the Demogorgon before he gets back with Murray and Joyce. Eddie’s trailer comes in handy when the kids create an escape from the Upside Down, which is used to rescue those trapped there.