Chapter Eight: Papa

Volume 2 starts with a bang and doesn't let up! This is one hell of an intense episode, and doesn't ever take the foot off the gas. Every scene escalated into the next with emotional moment after emotional moment and tons of glorious payback in the end. I am beyond excited for the monstrous 2.5 hour finale next. This show is beyond great.

"Papa" sees Stranger Things dialed up to 12, delivering on all emotional points and plot points with gusto. Matthew Modine and Millie Bobby Brown are brilliant onscreen together, particularly Modine with his delivery and use of his eyes. The California group finally shows some life from it's actors, with Noah Schnapp knocking it out of the park, and Finn Wolfhard offering solid support (finally). The writing is outstanding, with a minimal amount plot holes and every move so far is in-character, showing that the Duffers really have learned from season three. A pleasant surprise was the Russia group proving themselves to be at times as riveting as the Hawkins group, although the chemistry of the Hawkins group is so compelling. However, the heart and soul of the story lives in Eleven and her journey, and boy does it deliver on all fronts. So far, phenomenal stuff from chapter two of Stranger Things. We are back, ladies and gentlemen.

As we continue from the end of Volume 1, it feels like we never left. The continuation is extremely smooth, and feels natural. This episode, while not having any really crazy moments, is still amazing. It has lots of tension and is a great prelude episode to the finale. As all of our characters suit up and prepare for the big fight against Vecna, you can feel the intensity and desperation of the situation our protagonists are in, and the ending scene is awesome. Great episode.

P. S it's also really funny.

I'm an old guy, not much for kid actors. I know there are some stereotypes here, but I find this bunch to be so much fun. I thought the story had to be told to get us ready for the finish of the season. With an ensemble cast we need to add meat to the story. They do this so well. If there's a weakness to the whole thing it would be how quickly they determine what they can do to stop this monster. Of course, then you dismiss the show. I'm always amazed at the limited attention spans of some of the viewers. It's as if there has to be a significant scene every few seconds to hold their gaze. I like getting deeper into characters and motivations. I also enjoyed the parallel plot in the USSR. What an amazing contribution to the film world.

Spoiler Free Zone!!!

I just have to say WOW. The quality of the series has drastically improved. I was left speechless with my jaw on the floor at the end. The Duffer Brothers have created another masterpiece episode, with all of the characters nailing their performances.

They better give some awards especially to Sadie and Millie because they frickin carried the episode with their amazing acting skills.

This is indeed the beginning of the end.