The final episode of Stranger Things Season 4, “The Piggyback,” is a sprawling, emotionally charged, and ultimately devastating culmination of the season’s escalating horrors. Vecna’s meticulously planned invasion of Hawkins succeeds, leaving a physical rift tearing through the town, signaling a new era of intertwined realities and ushering in the final battle for the fate of humanity.
The Aftermath of Vecna’s Victory
“The Piggyback” doesn’t offer a clean resolution. Instead, it delivers a painful victory with significant losses and a palpable sense of dread. The episode is a masterclass in building tension, expertly interweaving multiple storylines that converge in a desperate attempt to stop Vecna’s machinations. While Eleven, Mike, Will, Jonathan, and Argyle confront Vecna in his weakened state in the Nina Project lab, Nancy, Steve, and Robin lead the charge in the Upside Down against his physical form. Dustin and Eddie bravely defend Hawkins from the demobats, but tragically, Eddie sacrifices himself to buy the others time.
Ultimately, Eleven manages to overpower Vecna, seemingly destroying his physical body. However, the final scene reveals the true horror: Vecna’s attack has succeeded in opening four gates, cleaving Hawkins apart and allowing the Upside Down to bleed into the real world. A field of dead plants and ash coats the town, a chilling prelude to the impending doom foreshadowed by Will’s lingering connection to the Mind Flayer. The season ends on a bleak note, leaving viewers with a cliffhanger that promises an epic final confrontation in Season 5.
Key Moments and Character Arcs
The finale is packed with pivotal moments. Eleven’s journey reaches its zenith as she finally confronts her past and embraces her power to protect her friends. Eddie Munson’s heroic sacrifice cemented his place as a fan favorite, proving that even in the face of prejudice and fear, genuine goodness can prevail. Max, though seemingly defeated by Vecna, is kept alive by Eleven, albeit in a coma, leaving her fate uncertain. The complex dynamics within the group are further explored, highlighting the enduring strength of their bond even amidst unimaginable trauma. Will’s subtle but significant realization that Vecna is still alive, connected to the Mind Flayer, sets the stage for his crucial role in the upcoming battle.
Analyzing the Cliffhanger
The closing scene depicting the fissure tearing through Hawkins is arguably the most impactful moment of the episode. It visually represents the complete integration of the Upside Down into the real world, a catastrophic event that will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences in Season 5. This cliffhanger expertly raises the stakes, leaving viewers wondering about the full extent of Vecna’s power and the devastating impact on Hawkins and its residents. The ominous red sky and the floating spores from the Upside Down create a truly terrifying and unsettling atmosphere, perfectly setting the tone for the final season’s apocalyptic showdown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Stranger Things Season 4 Finale
Here are some frequently asked questions about the last episode of Stranger Things season 4, providing further insight and clarification:
H3 Did Eleven truly defeat Vecna?
While Eleven seemingly destroyed Vecna’s physical form in the Upside Down, the ending suggests otherwise. Vecna’s consciousness likely still exists, connected to the Mind Flayer, and he orchestrated the opening of the four gates. Eleven weakened him, but he isn’t gone for good. Will’s reaction and the final scene’s apocalyptic landscape confirm this.
H3 Is Max dead?
Max is not dead, but she’s in a coma. Eleven uses her powers to keep Max alive after Vecna blinds her and breaks her limbs, but her long-term prognosis remains uncertain. Her survival hinges on Eleven’s ability to maintain her connection and possibly repair the damage Vecna inflicted.
H3 What was the significance of Eddie’s sacrifice?
Eddie’s sacrifice was a pivotal moment of redemption. He chose to fight and protect the town that had ostracized him, proving his inherent goodness and bravery. His death highlights the devastating consequences of prejudice and the unfairness of the situation he was placed in. It also bought valuable time for Nancy, Steve, and Robin to attack Vecna.
H3 What are the implications of the four gates opening in Hawkins?
The opening of the four gates signifies a complete breakdown of the barrier between the real world and the Upside Down. This allows the creatures and toxic environment of the Upside Down to seep into Hawkins, contaminating the town and endangering its residents. It also makes Hawkins vulnerable to further attacks and manipulation by Vecna.
H3 How does Will know Vecna is still alive?
Will’s connection to the Mind Flayer, established in previous seasons, allows him to sense Vecna’s presence and continued influence. He feels a tingling sensation at the back of his neck, mirroring his experience when the Mind Flayer was controlling him. This connection serves as a crucial warning sign for the group.
H3 What role did the Nina Project play in Eleven’s victory?
The Nina Project helped Eleven regain her powers and confront her repressed memories, specifically her involvement with One (Vecna). By immersing herself in the past, Eleven was able to relearn control over her abilities and ultimately become strong enough to fight Vecna. The project was essential for her personal growth and preparedness for the final battle.
H3 What is the significance of the Mind Flayer in Season 4?
While not directly appearing, the Mind Flayer’s influence looms large. Vecna is revealed to be the Mind Flayer’s “five-star general,” executing its plan to merge the Upside Down with the real world. The Mind Flayer is the ultimate puppet master, and Vecna is merely its instrument of destruction.
H3 What happens to Nancy, Steve, and Robin after attacking Vecna?
Nancy, Steve, and Robin are physically unharmed after their confrontation with Vecna, although deeply shaken by the experience. They return to Hawkins to find the town ravaged by the opening of the gates and the toxic atmosphere. They join the rest of the group in preparing for the final battle.
H3 What is the significance of the song “Running Up That Hill” in saving Max?
“Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush acts as a lifeline for Max, pulling her back from Vecna’s grasp. The song represents Max’s cherished memories and her connection to her friends, anchoring her to the real world and fighting against Vecna’s psychic intrusion. The song became a symbol of hope and resilience throughout the season.
H3 How does the ending set up Season 5?
The ending of Season 4 sets up Season 5 as the ultimate showdown between Eleven and Vecna, with the fate of Hawkins and potentially the world hanging in the balance. The complete integration of the Upside Down into the real world creates a new, dangerous landscape and raises the stakes significantly. Season 5 promises to be a darker, more intense, and emotionally charged conclusion to the Stranger Things saga.
H3 What happened to Argyle at the end?
Argyle, despite his comedic relief role, provides crucial support throughout the season. In the finale, he continues to be the designated driver, ensuring the group’s transportation and safety. While his direct involvement in the fight against Vecna is limited, his presence offers much-needed levity and a reminder of the normalcy they are fighting to preserve.
H3 Will there be more character deaths in Season 5?
Given the increasingly high stakes and the impending final battle, it is highly probable that Season 5 will feature more character deaths. The Duffer brothers have hinted at a more streamlined narrative focusing on the core characters, suggesting that some sacrifices may be necessary to achieve a definitive resolution. The survival of key characters like Max is also uncertain, leaving viewers anticipating a potentially heartbreaking conclusion.
Conclusion: The Dawn of the Final Battle
“The Piggyback” is a fittingly epic conclusion to Season 4, leaving viewers breathless and desperate for more. While the victory against Vecna feels hollow, the episode underscores the resilience and unwavering bond of the Stranger Things gang. As the Upside Down bleeds into Hawkins, the final battle looms large, promising a thrilling and emotionally charged conclusion to this beloved series. The earth may have shattered, but the fight is far from over.