Chapter Six: The Spy

Netflix has really varied with its shows, but 'Stranger Things' to me is one of its hits. In their prime, it, 'The Crown' and 'House of Cards' (despite its terrible final season) were absolutely brilliant. Season 1 is excellent and Season 2, while a slow starter (unlike its first season) and with one of the show's worst episodes in it, was very nearly as great on the whole and did quickly build momentum. Season 3 on the whole felt like a different show.

"Chapter Six: The Spy" is one of the best episodes of Season 2, very like its previous episode and on the same level in brilliance. It is also one of the best, most exciting and most intense 'Stranger Things' episodes, that builds upon what the previous episodes showed, progressed both the mystery and the characters and also leaves one pondering with questions waiting to be answered later on. Nothing filler-like here at all and leaves one excited for what's to come.

Everything is superb in "Chapter Six: The Spy". The production values are superb. Very stylish and atmospheric, with some truly beautiful images that one can't believe such high quality comes from a Netflix show. Not to mention the highly impressive special effects that put a good deal of big budget films in recent years to shame. The music has a wonderful 80s nostalgic vibe while also being quite haunting, enhancing the atmosphere beautifully.

Also incredibly impressive is the beautifully balanced writing. That has a lot of thought and intrigue, with the usual brains and heart. The storytelling is tremendously engaging, atmospheric and never simplistic or convoluted. Loved the intimate and un-noisy relationship writing (had no problem with Nancy and Jonathan's story here) and the episode also shines in the suspenseful and intense action. Especially the showdown and the ending, which is one of the most intense of the whole show. It is rich in affectionate nostalgia (reminiscent of Stephen King's depiction of childhood), poignant emotional impact and suspenseful turns in the more mysterious elements.

Furthermore, the character writing is spot on. Dustin and Steve have really progressed as characters and very quickly. As is the acting, particularly from the younger cast.

Overall, outstanding. 10/10.

This episode was dark and exciting! The pieces that were set up are moving with great effect! The foundation is laid for a great finale!

Nice homage to Aliens near the end!

Best episode yet man Such charisma and suspense till the last

Season two of "Stranger Things" is wildly uneven, to say the least. Episode 4 was brilliant, whereas episode 5 was - in my humble opinion - rather disappointing. Episode 6 is truly magnificent again, thanks to non-stop action, the reuniting of characters that belong together, surprising plot-twists, genuine emotional moments, marvelous film & music references, and the insertion of pure horror.

The narrow rescue of Sheriff Hopper in the Upside Down tunnels underneath the pumpkin fields has severe physical and mental consequences for Will. He's completely taken over by the spider-like creature and the doctors/scientists at the Hawkins' Lab even fear for his life. Nancy and Jonathan are euphoric after their "Justice for Barbara" actions with the conspiracy theorist Bauman and grow closer to each other. The unlikely duo Steve and Dustin are still looking for the rapidly growing Dart, and it has become quite clear now they are dealing with a baby-Demogorgon. They're joined by Lucas and Max, who clearly also grew closer to each other. Poor Dustin, he will not get the girl...

"The Spy" underlines why "Stranger Things" is righteously referred to as one of the greatest horror/Sci-Fi series of the last couple of decades. It's compelling, funny, occasionally scary, mysterious, and addictive. Season two is building up towards a phenomenal climax, I'm sure. "The Spy" is near-perfect from every angle, and also includes musical highlights ("Hammer to Fall" from Queen, "Blue Bayou" by Roy Orbison) and awesome film classic homages ("Alien", "Jaws", "Stand by Me", "Temple of Doom", ...)

I'm trembling in fear even now. Scary stuff for a TV show.

The dark atmosphere, the horror, the screams, the monsters - all amazing, all mind-blowing !

My heart's full of tension.