This article was originally published on absolutelyconnected.com and has been republished here with permission.
It is no secret that our time is one in which there is an abundance of media, particularly films and television programs. There are many high-quality series out there, and even though they’re not all well-made, we can’t get enough of them. We frequently stay up late watching our favorite television shows. One such program is the currently airing, fourth and penultimate season of Stranger Things. Netflix broke with convention and split the fourth season into two parts. The first was made available on May 27th, and the second will be available on July 1st. The wonderful first seven episodes have inspired a ton of memes on the internet in response to volume one and in anticipation of volume two.
Didn’t see that one coming
Everyone was confused by Max’s character journey in a show that is all about friendship. Recently, she has been more distant and avoids social situations frequently. The authors have suggested that it has only been Max and her Walkman since the StarCourt fire.
We adore it when authors develop characters we can identify with. At the start of season four, Max is a character to whom every introvert can connect. However, the second half of the Tweet is something that extroverts also do, so we are not so sure about that. Max is being cheeky looking at a shirtless Steve!
The funniest sidekick
There are some series with fantastic main characters but underwhelming side characters, which makes their scenes uninteresting. There are also series with funny minor characters but really lifeless main characters over time.
However, when you are in luck, there are shows like Stranger Things, where each and every cast member is equally outstanding. Every moment is eagerly awaited by the audience, and even the little characters, like Erica, are adored! We just can’t get enough of her sass! For Lucas, Erica is the stereotypical “annoying little sister” and a source of annoyance. The character is brilliantly portrayed by Priah Ferguson.
Unintentional comedy
It is a pretty intense scene when Chrissy passes away. It is at this point that Vecna’s abilities are first shown to us. However, despite how serious it was, there was some humor. Have you seen it?
Eddie panics when Chrissy doesn’t wake up. The flashing of all the lights around him heightens the eerie atmosphere for both Eddie and the audience. But it is pretty funny how he screams, “I don’t like this, Chrissy, wake up!” when she is unconscious. Eddie then witnessed Chrissy’s horrible murder while she hovered in the air, and was traumatized by her passing.
Poor Joyce
Our hearts belong to Joyce, who is portrayed by the charming Winona Ryder. Her character has faced numerous challenges in life, yet she keeps going. Her reaction to witnessing Will go through all of that must have been awful.
Who would have imagined that the woman who hurriedly strung Christmas lights in season one would be undertaking a covert rescue mission in Russia! She’s working hard to get Hopper back, but she has no idea what her kids are doing. If she only knew that her son drives under the influence! Or that El willingly went back to the lab!
What self-control?
Stranger Things’ first season premiered in 2016. The second season was released in 2017. Two years later, in 2019, the show’s third season was released, and three years later, in 2022, the fourth season followed.
We did not consider how quickly we would binge it. The issue with Netflix releasing the entire season at once is that we allow our excitement to determine how quickly we watch, which is typically a binge of nine hours. Like gambling and other behavioral addictions, binge-watching activates the part of our brain responsible for “reward” functions, producing dopamine and making us feel very good.
Time flies
We just discussed how each season of Stranger Things has taken a very long time to come out, and how we are still waiting for the final volume. Although a little overstated, this describes how things have altered since the first season.
When they first started watching the program back in 2016, many viewers were teenagers. Now that they are all grownups, they are all watching the show’s penultimate season. Many “kids” and pre-teens who have just started watching the show are present beside them. These teens grew up with the characters which makes the story all the more special.
The iconic duo
We are happy that the two can finally work together because fans did not get to see much of these two together in the previous season. They are both such strong, independent women; we believed they would make an unstoppable team. But the authors disproved our assertions.
This is right on the money! Robin is a quivering ball of energy, while Nancy is cool, quiet, and collected. In retrospect, we are not sure what we anticipated, but it was not the meeting that we had all hoped for. At least they appear to be improving their interpersonal skills now.
Stan
There are numerous canon romances in Stranger Things, such as El and Mike or the romance between Joyce and Hopper, but there are a lot of additional couples that fans are rooting for. The best illustration of that might be Eddie and Chrissy.
Our hearts just melted as they smiled at each other in the candid forest scene following that awkward initial exchange. They have a charming conversation when Eddie reminds her that they performed in the same middle school talent show. In a completely different matter, doesn’t Eddie resemble a younger version of Robert Downey Jr.? We think so!
Can’t believe it
Stranger Things is a fictional series. As much as we’d like to think differently, we wouldn’t see such unusual things in real life, which makes it evident because so many strange things are happening. Therefore, there are a lot of implausible elements in the show, such as creatures, special abilities, etc.
What’s the most implausible aspect of a fictitious show featuring monsters, extraterrestrial species, and magical abilities? It is Steve Harrington continuing to be single! Seriously, how is it possible for such a great guy to be single? We hope he finds the one or goes back to her soon.
You’ll be missed
There are several memorable characters in Stranger Things. Sadly, it appears that the writers have decided to include one character that the audience grows to love before losing them every season. It was Barb in season one. The endearing Bob appeared in season two.
As for Alexi from season three, who could forget? With such a sweetly innocent look, he was an instant hit. We’d like to pause for a second to honor all of the fantastic characters that the program has murdered off. There are no guarantees in Stranger Things, any character can die if necessary for the story.
Jealousy
Although they never say it out, Dustin and Steve are close friends. The way Dustin acts when Steve is present makes it clear that Steve treats him like his little brother. It started with bully-turned-babysitter Steve Harrington and unapologetic nerd Dustin Henderson and ended up in a close friendship.
Therefore, Steve’s resentment after observing Dustin hanging around with Eddie is largely understandable. After all that, he might as well be accusing Dustin of cheating, but we believe it is a little too harsh in response to Dustin meeting a new acquaintance. Dustin can have as many friends as he wishes!
Good for Steve
The show’s third season is where the possible romance between Robin and Steve ended. We didn’t all want it, and it was unexpected. It’s okay, though. We have no resentment toward it whatsoever. But we do feel bad for Steve.
However, it appears that Robin and Steve have gotten closer in season 4. In fact, it’s incredibly sweet that Steve seems to have Robin as a co-parent. It’s hilarious how well they both care for the kids. Because they work together, they already have good team player skills. They also have very honest communication, which is fundamental for a friendship.
Eddie ftw
One of the half a dozen fresh, enduring characters that the fourth season introduces is Eddie. Since people can’t stop praising the eccentric young adult, the writers and casting directors did a fantastic job creating the characters.
Joseph Quinn, who portrays Eddie, deserves a lot of praise for bringing the role to life. Even though he only made an appearance in this season, it seems like he has been living in Hawkins with us all along. Quinn was born in 1993 in London, England. He attended drama school at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, graduating in 2015.
Really?
We anticipated seeing the gang mature given the significant time between each season, but several of them caught us off guard. They have matured, but because Will’s family now resides in California, they have also grown apart.
There will inevitably be some drift within the group, and that’s exactly what we witnessed with Mike and Will, who are great friends. Although the reunion scene was lovely, there was some youthful angst between the two. Mike must also sustain a long-distance relationship with Eleven, and on her side his love letters are not saying what she wants him to say to her.
And another one
Aside from the fact that Steve Harrington is unselfish, kind, sweet, hilarious, and all the other wonderful things, one of his best qualities is that he’s a little stupid. He’s not incredibly dim, but he may be a little naive at times. And, as much as we hate to tell it, he likes it!
In actuality, the combination of his idiocy and all of his other characteristics is what makes his persona so well-known. He may be a little unaware, but we adore him all the more for it. Sadly, the girls don’t perceive him the same way we do.
Literally the same
These scenes from Strange Things and SpongeBob SquarePants resemble one another quite a bit, don’t they? The level of energy in both of these stills is out of this world, and we’re not just referring to the parts where Max and SpongeBob are floating! Only the word “amazing” will do.
The Stranger Things scene comes to mind. There are a lot more “feels” than usual in that sequence. Seeing Max’s life on the line rendered us absolutely incomprehensible and emotional. Literally! Just the fact that it was not left as a cliffhanger for the upcoming episode makes us happy.
At all costs
Relationships and pairings were already discussed, however we neglected to bring up the ship names that fans give the couples. Even though the names sound strange when taken out of context, aficionados can identify the duo relatively fast. Jopper is, of course, Joyce and Hopper.
Although we are unsure of what the second volume will hold for us, we can be confident that it will be a wonderful journey packed with drama and suspense. Because of this, fans zealously defend their favorite characters in the hopes that they will make it through what volume two has in store for them.
A new perspective
Sincere to say, Stranger Things’ fourth season has changed our viewers’ perspectives on memes. Many of these memes used to make us laugh, but today they appear to be funnier, sadder, and more relatable all at once. This particular meme is so spot on for this storyline that it is chilling.
We are compelled to view everything through the lens of Stranger Things. The challenges that our favorite characters have gone through remain front and center in our minds and hearts, especially after that emotionally charged volume one. After volume two, who knows what memes will be different for us.
Which song is playing?
True, most of us are familiar with Sadie Sink from her depiction of Max in the Netflix series Stranger Things. Therefore, it seems as though she is still Max when you see her in any other show or on any other music video. Every other character on every other show also experiences that.
Recently, Sadie Sink made an appearance in Taylor Swift’s “All of Me” music video. As a result, Max is clearly seen in that footage. We can’t help but assume that she is listening to “All of Me” on her Walkman as we switch back to the show.
Revenge
Bullying must stop. Even though this is nothing new, it is nevertheless important to mention. Sadly, Jane was bullied quite a bit in Stranger Things’ first volume of the fourth season. It was difficult to see someone who has already gone through a great deal of hardship have to deal with more.
We do not support violence, but when El defended herself, we could not help but applaud. We won’t lie – we applauded when she put Angela in her place, even if she went about it the wrong way. In a rage, Eleven punches Angela in the nose, breaking it.
The one ship that won’t sail
Robin and Nancy make a great team since Robin is constantly excited while Nancy always presents a calm and cool demeanor. Although it might have just been us, did it first appear like Robin was making advances toward Nancy?
Sadly, Nancy has just recently accepted to be friends with her and has no interest in a romantic connection. Even while we are aware that there is absolutely no likelihood of them connecting or sharing a moment, we still wish it were possible! We never know what might happen, after all! However, Robin seems to be smitten with her bandmate Vickie.
Technically no spoilers
We adore those posts taken out of context. They are a wonderful method for fans to interact without actually giving away any surprises to others who come across such posts. For allusions that are taken out of context, this image of Peter Griffin in a crumpled heap surely meets the description.
You already know the joke here, even if you only watched the first episode of volume one. The authors, filmmakers, and producers wasted no time in teasing the fans about how grim this season will be because Vecna is a cruel character. This season is much more adult and explicit.
Appreciation post
We completely concur with this tweet. Steve Harrington is an outstanding work of art. In addition to being a well-written character, Joe Keery also dazzled everyone with his acting abilities. One of the most enjoyable aspects of Stranger Things is certainly Steve Harrington.
Given how excellent the show is, the creators undoubtedly had an idea for Steve’s persona. We don’t know if they anticipated Steve Harrington becoming the role model that he is now, given how much he has changed since season one. From prepi superficial bully to complex character with multiple layers. Steve is definitely a fan favorite.
Technically no spoilers part 2
Once more, we have a fantastic out-of-context Stranger Things post that provides spoilers without actually giving away any actual plot points. To be completely fair, the image is already somewhat strange when taken away from its original context, but now there are many other feelings we experience when we look at it.
Our eyes suffer and our bones hurt while looking at this picture. Even though Vecna is a fictional character, the special effects were quite impressive. The horror category belongs to the series without a doubt. We no longer want to look at it, let alone think about it.
Liberating
The confrontation between Max and Vecna, in our opinion, is the best moment thus far this season. The music, dance, and set design were all breathtaking! It’s not just us, either. The popularity of Kate Bush’s song “Running Up That Hill” has soared.
The song was first released in 1985, but because of Stranger Things, it reached the top 10 charts in over thirty nations in 2022. Did you know that the show’s producers had to make a special request of Kate Bush in order to obtain the authorization to utilize her music? It’s fortunate that she enjoys the program.
Chills down the spine
The start of season four was really strong. Given the three prior seasons that helped to make the show the success it is now, we would naturally expect nothing less. However, the tone was set immediately away, so we had to prepare for what was to come.
Vecna was not someone we wanted to tangle with even before we learned his name. Though the Demogorgon and Mind Flayer were equally intense, the writers were eager to get started now that we are more familiar with the setting. Vecna is this season’s enemy and evil to fight; a truly frightening one.
Nothing left to do
Normally, the delay between seasons is agonizing, but because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it took three years instead of one, and we were impatient to start season four. Even while we understand that it wasn’t their fault, waiting three years was beginning to get on our nerves.
After waiting, we were given access to seven episodes, which the majority of us watched in under a day! We’re aware that there is nothing to be ashamed about, but we can’t help it. We ought to take our time and savor the show after all the effort its producers put into crafting it.
Vecna’s curse
Taking viewers back in time is one skill that Stranger Things has mastered. Fans are taken back to the 1980s through stage design, costuming, and props, among other things. Another important aspect is music, particularly in the most recent season. Simply ask Max.
She was technically saved by Max’s buddies, but Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” should also get some credit. Naturally, when the kids figured out how to escape Vecna’s spell, all we could think about was what song our buddies would have to blast to save us. It also introduced us to some 80’s classics and hottest singers.
Finally!
When Hopper and Joyce began dating, it was one of the best events in the entire series. They make a great pair, and it was terrible to witness them split up in the third season due to otherworldly events. We shed a lot of tears in those season three finale’s scenes.
Anyway, we always had a sneaking suspicion that they might return at some point. Fortunately, they did—even if it was in the midseason finale. The reunion was worthwhile even though it took some time to get them back in one other’s arms. Joyce really proved her love to Hopper.
Just facts and nothing else
We cannot argue with the facts being stated in this meme. Without a doubt, Steve Harrington is the best babysitter on the show—and possibly on any TV program. To Steve’s dismay, he fits the part so well that he continues getting dragged back in.
He is kind, encouraging, and selfless. Steve drives the gang about and puts himself in risk whenever necessary to keep them safe. Could he possibly be more adorable? We have a lot of arguments, but we believe that this is sufficient to support the claim. And he became super close with one of the kids, Dustin.
Everything else can wait
For three long years, we have been waiting for this first volume of the fourth season of the show. Naturally, everything else could wait until now!
Perhaps the Sims exaggerate a little. Yes, mama needs to give the baby some love as well, but we think you get the idea! It’s time to free up your schedule for a day-long binge when one of the best series is finally released!
A sensible review
Alex Zalben, a writer, articulated what we were unable to. This is essentially what we would be saying if we added together the entire first volume of the season. We were really blown away by Season 4, and we can’t wait for the publication of the second volume.
On that topic, after seeing the second volume, we’re likewise unsure on what to do. Who knows when season five will arrive?
True stuff
Although we agree with this fan’s stance, we must disagree on one point: ssweettheartt is not the only person who supports Steve Harrington. Of course there are us, but judging by the number of posts praising Steve, he has a sizable following.
Therefore, it follows that there must be a problem with the universe if there are no supporters of Steve Harrington. There will always be a Steve fan club!
This year’s top tracks
For those who are unaware, Spotify Wrapped is a compilation of the music you have listened to most frequently this year. For a song to truly be on the list, it would need to be played frequently. Kate Bush’s song “Running Up That Hill” will undoubtedly be on several Spotify Wrapped lists.
This 37-year-old song has reached the top of the charts in the UK thanks to its growing popularity!
A complete shocker
We’ve discussed how excellent the first volume is, but we’ve barely touched on the wild revelation in the mid-season finale. The huge build-up, which hinted at Vecna’s origins and how everything connects, was worthwhile.
There have been numerous plots, characters, and other elements, but Vecna’s plotline stands out among them all as the most compelling. He is the common element throughout the majority of the season four storylines so far.