The highly anticipated release of Season 5 Vol. 2 of “Stranger Things” has caused quite a stir among fans and critics alike. Following its premiere on Dec. 25, the show has faced a wave of negative reviews, resulting in a significant drop in its Rotten Tomatoes score from the 70s down to 56%. This marks a sharp decline compared to the previous seasons, with Season 4 holding an 89% score, Season 3 at 86%, Season 2 at 90%, and Season 1 at 96%.
The backlash against the show seems to have intensified after the airing of the penultimate episode titled “The Bridge.” In this episode, Will Byers, portrayed by Noah Schnapp, comes out as gay to his friends in a heartfelt monologue as they prepare to confront the formidable Vecna from the Upside Down. Surprisingly, “The Bridge” has become the lowest-rated episode of “Stranger Things” on IMDb, with a score of only 5.4 out of 10. This episode received over 96,000 user reviews on IMDb, significantly more than most other episodes this season.
Elon Musk, known for his outspoken opinions on various topics, chimed in on the controversy surrounding the show. In response to criticism about a character coming out as homosexual, Musk commented that “the culture is changing” and expressed his belief that such themes are unnecessary and forced on audiences who simply want to enjoy sci-fi entertainment.
The phenomenon of review bombing by so-called “toxic fandom” is not uncommon in the entertainment industry. Actors in popular franchises like “Star Wars” and “Lord of the Rings” have often faced discrimination and harassment online. To combat this, studios have implemented specialized focus group testing and social media training for their talent.
While some viewers have taken issue with the portrayal of Will’s sexuality in “Stranger Things,” others have criticized the show for its slow pacing, weak plot development, and uninspired writing. Critics have noted that the series has failed to evolve its characters as they age, relying heavily on clichés and references to maintain its appeal.
Despite the mixed reception, Noah Schnapp’s poignant portrayal of Will’s coming out experience has resonated with many viewers. The actor himself was deeply moved by the scene and praised his castmates for their support during the emotional filming process. As the final episode of “Stranger Things” approaches, fans are eager to see how the series will conclude its latest season.
