STRANGER THINGS Season 2 Episodes 5-9 Reaction | First Time Watch | Millie Bobby Brown
Quick Read
Summary
Takeaways
- ❖Bob Newby's death is a 'dirty' and deeply upsetting moment, despite his heroic actions.
- ❖Steve Harrington undergoes significant character growth, becoming a protective and brave figure for the younger kids.
- ❖Eleven's journey to find her 'sister' and subsequent return to Hawkins is a powerful and visually striking moment.
- ❖The Mind Flayer's 'hive mind' strategy, using Will as a spy, creates a terrifying and intelligent antagonist.
- ❖Nancy and Jonathan's decision to expose Hawkins Lab, though risky, ultimately leads to some accountability.
- ❖Max's stepbrother, Billy, is identified as a product of an abusive home, explaining his aggressive behavior.
- ❖Dustin's bond with Dart, the baby Demogorgon, provides a unique and ultimately heartbreaking subplot.
- ❖Jim Hopper's protective father figure role for Eleven solidifies his character's emotional depth.
Insights
1Bob Newby's Heroic Sacrifice and Emotional Impact
Bob Newby, initially perceived as a quirky new love interest, becomes an unexpected hero by using his computer skills to help the group escape the lab. His death, however, is met with significant emotional distress by the host, who labels it 'dirty' and believes it was unnecessary, suggesting it was a plot device to facilitate other character relationships.
The host repeatedly expresses her love for Bob, calling him 'my hero,' 'so smart, so cute, so amazing,' and 'MVP.' She is visibly upset by his death, stating, 'Why would you take Bob from me? I'm so pissed.' She later theorizes his death was to allow Jim and Joyce to be together. (, , , , , , )
2Steve Harrington's Unexpected Character Evolution
Steve Harrington transforms from a somewhat arrogant high school jock into a responsible, protective, and brave 'babysitter' for the younger kids. His willingness to confront danger and his growing bond with Dustin are highlighted as significant and positive character developments.
The host notes, 'Steve's a good guy, you know. He's sweet.' She later exclaims, 'Steve MVP man. Steve's coming in for the win.' and 'Dude, Steve's my hero. You're so cool.' She also appreciates his 'fearless' nature and his 'older brother' role for Dustin. (, , , , , )
3Eleven's Journey and Triumphant Return
Eleven's arc involves leaving Hawkins to find her biological mother and a 'sister' (Kali/Eight) with similar powers. While initially swayed by Kali's vengeful philosophy, Eleven ultimately chooses to return to her friends in Hawkins, arriving dramatically to save them from the Demodogs.
The host expresses concern about Kali being a 'bad influence on 11' () but celebrates Eleven's decision to return: 'I'm sorry, but I have to go back. My friends, my friends are in danger.' () Her arrival is met with excitement: 'Oh my god, it's 11. We're saved. 11. I love you.' ()
4The Mind Flayer's Strategic Threat and Will's Connection
The Mind Flayer is revealed to be a highly intelligent entity with a 'hive mind' that controls the Demodogs and uses Will Byers as a spy. This connection makes Will both a target and a crucial source of information, complicating efforts to defeat the monster without harming him.
The host notes, 'Poor Will has that thing inside of him.' () and later, 'He's a spy. If he knows where we are, so does the shadow.' () The children's understanding of the 'hive mind' and the plan to 'burn it out of him' are key plot points. (, )
Notable Moments
Bob Newby's death by Demodogs after heroically rebooting the lab's security system.
This moment deeply impacts the host, who views it as a tragic and 'dirty' plot point, highlighting Bob's unexpected bravery and the show's willingness to kill off beloved characters.
Steve Harrington's transformation into a protective 'babysitter' for Dustin, Lucas, and Max, wielding a nail-bat against Demodogs.
The host is highly impressed by Steve's character development, praising his bravery and new role, which contrasts sharply with his earlier persona.
Eleven's dramatic return to Hawkins, arriving just in time to save her friends from an onslaught of Demodogs at the Byers' house.
This is a triumphant and emotionally charged moment for the host, who had been anticipating Eleven's return and celebrates her powerful entrance.
Dustin's emotional farewell to Dart, the baby Demogorgon he had raised, before it is killed by Eleven.
The host expresses a mix of heartbreak and satisfaction, having previously speculated about Dart's potential loyalty to Dustin, making the creature's death a poignant moment.
Nancy Wheeler dancing with a heartbroken Dustin at the Snow Ball, boosting his confidence after being rejected by other girls.
The host views this as an 'MVP moment' for Nancy, showcasing kindness and empathy that significantly impacts Dustin's emotional well-being.
Jim Hopper adopting Eleven and fighting for her right to attend the Snow Ball, despite the risks.
This solidifies Hopper's role as Eleven's loving father figure, and the host praises his dedication and the emotional bond they share.
Quotes
"Bob is my hero. He is so smart, so cute, so amazing, everything. And like I love him."
"We have a lot of rules in our party, but the most important is friends don't lie. Never. Ever. No matter what."
"This isn't a prison, Jane. You're always free to return to your policeman or stay and avenge your mother."
"I may be a pretty shitty boyfriend, but turns out I'm actually a pretty damn good babysitter."
"If the brain dies, the body dies. I thought that was the whole point. It is, but he's connected to Will. If closes the gate and kills the mind flare's army, Will's a part of that army. Closing the gate will kill him."
"Out of all my brother's friends, you're my favorite. You've always been my favorite."
Q&A
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