The last episode of Stranger Things released, as of today’s date, is “Chapter Nine: The Piggyback,” the finale of Season 4. This epic conclusion culminated in a desperate battle against Vecna, leaving the fate of Hawkins, and potentially the world, hanging precariously in the balance.
A Deep Dive into “The Piggyback”
“The Piggyback” isn’t just the final episode of Season 4; it’s a nearly two-and-a-half-hour cinematic experience that ties together multiple storylines and sets the stage for the highly anticipated final season. The episode sees the main characters fragmented across the globe, each facing their own unique challenges in the fight against Vecna. From Eleven’s emotional confrontation with her past to the Hawkins crew’s explosive assault on Vecna’s physical body, “The Piggyback” is a relentless rollercoaster of action, suspense, and heartbreak.
Eleven’s Journey to Redemption
Much of the episode focuses on Eleven’s continued training with Dr. Owens and Dr. Brenner in the Nevada desert. She delves deeper into her past trauma, confronting One/Vecna in the Rainbow Room massacre simulation. This journey is crucial not only for Eleven’s personal growth but also for unlocking the full potential of her powers. Her ultimate victory over One, though a simulation, gives her the confidence and control she needs to face him in the real world.
The Hawkins Crew’s Desperate Stand
Meanwhile, back in Hawkins, Dustin, Lucas, Max, Erica, Steve, Nancy, Robin, and Eddie embark on a multi-pronged attack against Vecna’s physical form. Their plan involves creating distractions and exploiting Vecna’s weakened state while he’s mentally connected to Max. The tension is palpable as they navigate the dangerous landscape of the Upside Down, facing Demobats and other horrifying creatures.
A Heartbreaking Sacrifice
The episode’s most emotionally devastating moment is undoubtedly Eddie Munson’s heroic sacrifice. While distracting the Demobats to allow Dustin and Erica to escape, Eddie is mortally wounded. His death is a poignant reminder of the high stakes involved and the toll the fight against the Upside Down is taking on everyone.
The Aftermath and Looming Threat
Despite their efforts, the Hawkins crew is ultimately unsuccessful in fully stopping Vecna. Although Max survives, she is left in a coma, and Vecna successfully opens a massive gate connecting the Upside Down to Hawkins. The episode ends with a chilling visual of the landscape being transformed, cloaked in ash and the ominous presence of the Upside Down. This cliffhanger leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the final season.
Frequently Asked Questions About “The Piggyback”
This section addresses some of the most common questions viewers have after watching “Chapter Nine: The Piggyback.”
FAQ 1: What was Vecna’s ultimate goal in Season 4?
Vecna’s goal was to open enough gates to connect the Upside Down to Hawkins, effectively unleashing its destructive power on the real world. He sought to reshape the world according to his twisted vision, believing humanity was a plague that needed to be cleansed.
FAQ 2: Did Max actually die in “The Piggyback”?
No, Max did not die, although she came incredibly close. Eleven was able to reach into her mind and restart her heart, but Max is left in a coma. Her fate remains uncertain heading into the final season.
FAQ 3: Why was Eddie Munson such a beloved character?
Eddie’s popularity stemmed from his outsider status, his genuine kindness, and his unwavering loyalty to his friends. He represented the misunderstood and marginalized, and his heroic sacrifice resonated deeply with viewers. He went from a town pariah to a hero, proving that appearances can be deceiving.
FAQ 4: How did Eleven regain her powers?
Eleven regained her powers through a series of intense training sessions with Dr. Owens and Dr. Brenner, where she relived her past trauma and confronted One/Vecna in a simulated environment. This process allowed her to unlock the full potential of her abilities.
FAQ 5: What is the significance of the song “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” by Kate Bush?
“Running Up That Hill” played a crucial role in saving Max’s life from Vecna’s curse. The song resonated with Max’s feelings of isolation and guilt, creating a powerful connection that allowed her friends to reach her and pull her back from the brink. Its power resided in its ability to resonate with personal emotional struggles.
FAQ 6: What are the four stages of Vecna’s curse?
The four stages of Vecna’s curse are: a headache, nosebleeds, vivid nightmares, and finally, physical possession leading to death. Each stage is marked by increasingly intense and disturbing symptoms.
FAQ 7: What is the connection between Henry Creel, One, and Vecna?
Henry Creel is the original human form of One, the first child experimented on by Dr. Brenner. After attempting to kill his family and being subdued by his father, he was placed under Brenner’s control. Ultimately, he became the being we know as Vecna after Eleven banished him to the Upside Down.
FAQ 8: How did the Russian prison play a role in the events of Season 4?
The Russian prison held Demogorgons and other creatures from the Upside Down, which were being experimented on. Hopper’s imprisonment there, along with Joyce and Murray’s mission to rescue him, inadvertently contributed to the overall chaos and threat of the Upside Down. Hopper’s escape also weakened the Russian research, giving Vecna an advantage.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of the grandfather clock?
The grandfather clock is a symbol of Vecna’s power and his connection to the Creel House. It appears in the minds of his victims as a sign that they are being targeted. Its ticking serves as a haunting countdown to their demise.
FAQ 10: How does the Upside Down mirror Hawkins?
The Upside Down is a dark and distorted reflection of Hawkins, frozen in time on the day Eleven first opened the gate. It serves as a breeding ground for monsters and a source of immense danger. Its mirroring effect allows Vecna to manipulate events in the real world.
FAQ 11: What loose ends remain heading into the final season?
Several loose ends remain, including Max’s comatose state, the full extent of the Upside Down’s influence on Hawkins, and the ultimate fate of Eleven and her friends. The final season will need to resolve these issues and provide a satisfying conclusion to the entire series.
FAQ 12: When is the expected release date for Stranger Things Season 5?
As of today, there is no confirmed release date for Stranger Things Season 5. Production was delayed due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Speculation currently places the release sometime in 2025.
Looking Ahead: The Final Showdown
“The Piggyback” serves as a powerful prelude to the final season of Stranger Things. With Hawkins teetering on the brink of destruction and Vecna poised to unleash his full power, the stakes have never been higher. The final season promises to be an epic battle between good and evil, where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. It is the culmination of four seasons of character development, plot twists, and terrifying monsters. The upcoming resolution promises to be unforgettable.