Chapter Two: Vecna's Curse

This episode is up there with in terms of fear factor and writing consistency. There are some iffy moments with Will and Mike, with Noah Schnapps doing nicely but being let down by Finn Wolfhard's one note delivery. El is being handled very nicely, I love how they addressed that she never had any emotional maturity, that just never was a thing for her. But everything is being handled with nuance and delicious suspense. Every character gets their scene, and they are mostly written nicely. This is going to be an excellent series if they end this properly.

We see the fallout from Chrissy's death, Michael arrives in California, and Joyce makes a discovery.

This is a strong episode with intriguing moments of storytelling.

The events in Hawkins get moving in quite compelling way. The scenes involving Dustin, Max, Steve, and Robin are quintessentially 'Stranger Things' and full of great entertainment. I love how they use the video store computer and the numerous Easter eggs and pop culture references involved.

The horror aspect is very well done again and we get a bit more information to keep it intriguing. There are plenty of creepy moments reminiscent of 80s horror like Nightmare on Elm Street, The Omen, and Hellraiser, for those who love the nostalgia.

What happens in California continues the Brian de Palma influenced arc of Eleven. This is a great tribute and compelling portrayal of bullying. The victimisation that went on in my school in the 80s was even worse than this portrayal. Sadly anyone who was not popular, white, attractive, heterosexual, able-bodied or tough enough to instil fear in others experienced some form of it. Personally though, I think it's time for El's story to move on from this in the next episode as it feels to me they have enough mileage from it. Millie Bobby Brown is exceptionally good.

Wynona Ryder and Brett Gelman are on great form in their scenes that indicate some big adventures are to come for their characters. This is another aspect of the overall plot that keeps the show interesting.

All performances and production values are top drawer.

This episode is another indication the Duffer Brothers are not messing around. Season 4 is on the verge of blowing away season 1. I don't recall ever watching a series that gave you science fiction, horror, suspense, high school drama and some comedy all rolled into one. After just 2 episodes of season 4, there hasn't been a slow moment. The scripts and scenes are tightly written and directed. My only down feeling of this particular episode was El's actions towards the end of the episode. I didn't expect that. But I suppose it's leading to something. Can't wait for eppy 3!!! I hear they get even better. Wow!

A solid start to Season 4. This season is totally different than I expected... The storyline is so much scarier and darker. The Cast wasn't lying about how the season's tone will be...

Got to know how Hopper survived but I'm not clear that the electricity or the power which splashed on other people were dead but how did Hopper Survive? I'm not sure about that... Anyways looking for up for more surprises.

A great follow up to the first episode! Also has one of the hardest lines of dialogue I've ever heard (see review title). Not much else to say but this season is already better than season 3 for me. Loving this so far!!