Chapter Four: The Sauna Test

This reviewer was concerned after episodes 1-3. Very concerned. Then "The Sauna Test" brings the full fun of watching Stranger Things back Full Force!!

I have to admit, this episode put in the middle of my seat with goosebumps.

After a rocky start to the season it finally feels like we're back. This episode has the main cast split into 3 groups, with each group trying tackle a different aspect of whatever is menacingly haunting Hawkins.

While it still feels like Dustin and Steve are stumbling on solutions to their problems too easily thanks to Robin, Joyce and Hopper are getting their hands dirty and tracing clues with some gritty detective work which is great, and the rest of the kids are (in vintage Stranger Things style) cleverly coming up with plans to find out what exactly is going on and who's behind it.

The formula is pretty similar to that which we've seen from Stranger Things in the previous 2 seasons, but the writers have thrown in a few curve balls to keep things fresh, and there's definitely a darker tone than we've seen before. The pacing in this episode is great and the acting, as per, is phenomenal. Hopefully the rest of the season is like this and not like the first 2 and a half episodes.

Intense, really great episode, I wasnt sure about 3 season but this is just insanely good! they pretty much nailed it!

Things are hotting up now in each of the four main plot threads; El and the gang, the ice cream crew, Jim and Joyce, and Nancy. All of them pointing to the same events viewed from a different facet, providing some payoff for the build-up to-date.

Some great action pushing the story along apace and now, at the halfway mark, it is clear what we are facing. We get to see eleven using her powers in earnest in contrast to their frivolous use in the previous episode.

There are many fabulous individual performances, notably Priah Ferguson as the sassy, streetwise Erica who exploits helping to her advantage.