Key Highlights
- The creators of Stranger Things defend the three-part split of season 5.
- Season 5 is divided into two volumes with Volume One releasing on November 26 and Volume Two on Christmas Day, followed by the finale on New Year’s Eve.
- Ross Duffer describes Episode Four as “the most challenging episode” they’ve ever made.
- The final scene of season 5 was known to the creators for six or seven years.
Stranger Things Season 5 Split: A Strategic Decision
The Duffer Brothers, co-creators and executive producers of Stranger Things, have defended their decision to split season 5 into three parts. This unconventional episodic release strategy is designed to enhance the storytelling experience rather than disrupt fan engagement.
Understanding the Decision Behind the Split
Ross Duffer, in an interview with SFX Magazine, explained that splitting season five was a deliberate choice made to allow for greater narrative expansion. He stated, “I’m also excited about the first volume because, in season four, we weren’t aware that it was going to get split in two. It’s not Netflix’s fault; it’s nobody’s fault.
There was the pandemic, and we ended up dividing it in two so we could get episodes out sooner. But this time, we knew we were going to divide it into two, so it really is in two halves.” This strategic decision aims to maintain the series’ momentum while providing a richer narrative experience.
Episode Four: The Most Challenging Technical Feat
The fourth episode of season five stands out as a significant milestone. According to Ross Duffer, “Episode four was the most challenging episode we’ve ever made, and that includes the finale – though on an emotional level, the finale was the hardest.” This statement highlights the technical complexity involved in crafting the final episodes, underscoring the dedication of the production team.
Engagement and Theatrical Release
Gaten Matarazzo, who portrays Dustin in the series, expressed his support for the episodic release plan. He believes it will bring a sense of engagement to the show over time that is often missing in the streaming era. “I’m glad they’re parcelling it up over the course of several release dates,” he said. “I think that’ll bring a sense of engagement to the show over time that we don’t really see a whole lot of in the streaming era.” Additionally, the final episode is set to be released theatrically on December 30, with a two-hour runtime. This theatrical release marks a significant departure from previous seasons and suggests a return to traditional television viewing experiences.
Conclusion
A Return to Classic Television Engagement
The Duffer Brothers’ decision to split season five into three parts is part of their broader strategy to enhance the narrative scope and technical complexity of the series. By maintaining a balance between episodic releases and theatrical experiences, they aim to provide fans with a more immersive and engaging viewing experience.
