Stranger Things’ Will Byers Twist Was Thrilling, But Even More Powerful If You Rewatched Season 2

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Spoilers ahead for Stranger Things Season 5.

The first part of the fifth and final season of Stranger Things is now available on Netflix. The initial four episodes include the show’s most shocking death and conclude with a major reveal: Will Byers possesses special abilities. The sequence was particularly impactful, and I found it even more enjoyable after revisiting the first two seasons beforehand.

The first four episodes of Stranger Things Season 5 are packed with action and unexpected twists. A major highlight is Will finally embracing his abilities – he discovers how to use his connection with Vecna to defeat three Demogorgons and rescue his friends. This moment felt even more impactful after revisiting Season 2 beforehand.

Will’s Flashback Scenes Were Established Back In Season 2

In the fourth episode, “Sorcerer,” Maya Hawke’s character, Robin, opened up about her own coming out experience to Will, encouraging him to accept himself. Will has faced bullying for being different throughout the series, even before he publicly came out. However, Robin’s words also seem to hint at Will’s ongoing connection to the mysterious Upside Down.

Before Will takes action, the show flashes back to his childhood. We see heartwarming moments like him coloring with Joyce, building the fort Castle Byers with Jonathan, and first meeting Mike. These scenes not only show us what Will was like before he disappeared, but also add another layer of meaning to his story.

Although the flashbacks felt fresh and heartfelt, we’ve actually learned about all of these moments before. Back in Season 2, when Will was under the Mind Flayer’s control, his family and friends tried to help him recall his memories. Joyce shared a story about him coloring a spaceship for her, Jonathan reminisced about building Castle Byers after his father left, and Mike explained how they first became friends – even recalling meeting on the playground swings in kindergarten.

I remembered this scene clearly, so when Will’s memories appeared on screen at the end of Episode 4, I was genuinely shocked. It’s a detail that some viewers might have missed because it’s been so long since Season 2, but I immediately recognized it. It really highlights how carefully the Duffer Brothers are crafting the story for the show’s final season.

The fifth and final season of Stranger Things is now rolling out on Netflix. The first four episodes are available now, with three more coming on December 25th, and the series will conclude with the final two episodes on December 31st. So far, no major characters have died, which is making fans anxious about what’s to come for their favorites.

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2025-12-03 01:08