“Stranger Things” Season 5 Faces Criticism for Downplaying Post-Apocalyptic Reality
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Despite a dramatic season 4 finale featuring ominous portals and widespread destruction, the latest installment of “Stranger Things” is drawing scrutiny for its portrayal of life in Hawkins, Indiana, as surprisingly normal. The second volume of season 5, now streaming on Netflix, has sparked debate among viewers who feel the show is minimizing the impact of the ongoing supernatural threat and military occupation.
The latest episodes contain spoilers for “Stranger Things” season 5, episode 6 — “Chapter Six: Escape from Camazotz.”
Robin’s Happiness Overshadowed by Unrealistic Calm
Among the compelling character arcs in “Stranger Things” is that of Robin Buckley, played by Maya Hawke. Introduced in season 3, Robin has become a fan favorite, navigating both supernatural mysteries and personal growth alongside Steve Harrington (Joe Keery). In season 5, she’s found both professional fulfillment as a DJ at Hawkins radio station WSQK and romantic happiness with Vickie Dunne (Amybeth McNulty).
However, this newfound joy is quickly tempered by the show’s apparent reluctance to acknowledge the dire circumstances surrounding Hawkins. As one observer noted, the narrative often features supporting characters “pretending that nothing is wrong,” despite the clear and present danger. In “Chapter Six: Escape from Camazotz,” Robin attempts to explain the supernatural situation to Vickie at the hospital, only to be met with the assumption that she is using drugs.
“It’s great to see one of the best ‘Stranger Things’ main characters finally get her career and romantic life together,” the source continued, “even if it’s in a military-controlled situation where the threat of Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) looms above all.” The frustration lies in the show’s decision to portray Vickie as yet another character who fails to recognize the obvious strangeness unfolding in Hawkins.
A Town in Denial After the Upside Down’s Incursion
The season 4 finale, “The Piggyback,” depicted catastrophic portals tearing through Hawkins, causing significant damage and solidifying the Upside Down’s influence. Yet, season 5 seemingly dismisses this pivotal event as a mere “earthquake,” according to media reports within the show’s universe.
The disconnect between the on-screen devastation and the town’s reaction is jarring. Despite the visible military presence, the ruins, and the metal strips used to seal the chasms, “every non-main character seems to have just accepted the military presence and the assorted weirdness, and goes on about their day as usual.” This narrative choice, while perhaps consistent with the show’s established pattern of keeping the general public largely unaware, feels increasingly contrived.
“It’s uncomfortable to see the show turn Vickie into yet another example of a supporting character who refuses to believe a main character about the supernatural situation of the town’s predicament despite all that’s happened,” a critic commented. While Vickie does eventually come to understand the truth, the initial denial highlights a recurring issue with the show’s handling of its supporting cast.
The show’s desire to maintain a semblance of normalcy is understandable from a narrative perspective. However, the lack of widespread panic, fear, or even curiosity among the residents of Hawkins strains credibility. It begs the question: how can a town so directly impacted by interdimensional rifts simply carry on as if nothing has changed?
“Stranger Things” season 5, vol. 2 is currently streaming on Netflix. Despite its flaws, the series continues to captivate audiences, but the handling of its post-apocalyptic setting remains a point of contention for many viewers.
