Today marks the premiere of Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 1 on Netflix, and after watching the first four episodes, I’m already feeling the mix of excitement and nostalgia that makes this show so special. Volume 1 picks up after the dramatic events of Season 4, and even in these opening episodes, it is clear that the stakes are higher than ever as Hawkins faces new dangers.
Volume 1 does a strong job of reintroducing familiar characters while hinting at the challenges still ahead. The writing balances suspense, humor, and heart in ways that remind you of why this show connected with fans in the first place, though reactions vary on pacing and tone. The atmosphere is tense and thrilling in many moments, and the visuals really bring Hawkins and the wider Stranger Things world to life as Volume 1 sets up the final arc.
One thing that stands out is how the show manages to make both old and new viewers feel at home. Whether it is the friendships, the mysteries, or the small moments of levity, these first episodes pull you right back into the world and make you eager for more. The Duffer Brothers even recommended re-watching key Season 4 episodes to follow along a little better in Season 5, including:
- Chapter One: The Hellfire Club
- Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab
- Chapter Nine: The Piggyback
It is clear that the creative team put a lot of care into crafting the start of this final season.
Volume 1 is a strong kickoff to what promises to be an unforgettable conclusion. For fans who have been following since the very first season, today’s premiere is a welcome return to Hawkins and a perfect reminder of why Stranger Things became such an iconic pop culture phenomenon.
