Stranger Things

:

Season 3
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Jul 15, 2016
Season #: 5, 4.5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 448 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 320 out of 448
  2. Mixed: 62 out of 448
  3. Negative: 66 out of 448

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  1. rolfmikkel
    Jul 10, 2019
    3
    Well, i really wanted to like this.. After two good seasons, that both held their own in form of quality- season 3 is merely a shadow of its predecessors ..

    -Hopper is a caricature of himself. He went from caring guardian that would do everything it takes to protect the town and the ones he loves. Now he is just loud, obnoxious and overall a horrible person. - Stranger things was    Well, i really wanted to like this.. After two good seasons, that both held their own in form of quality- season 3 is merely a shadow of its predecessors ..

    -Hopper is a caricature of himself. He went from caring guardian that would do everything it takes to protect the town and the ones he loves. Now he is just loud, obnoxious and overall a horrible person.

    - Stranger things was always inspired by other movies, but had their own twist that made things interesting. There is no more interesting twist, just the same old formula and blatant rip offs from other movies(Terminator, Alien, and tropes from previous seasons).

    Mindflayer infesting other people was cool, but often ruined by childish moments as the rest of the season was. Stranger Things was always childish but funny at the same time, now it’s just cringe because it’s implemented at the wrong moments( Dustin singing)

    - Characters screaming all the time and being excess versions of themselves.

    - Lucas’ sister, no comment needed here- but jesus christ...

    + Billie’s performance

    + Mindflayer and hosts

    + Sometimes more mature and more gory, but this is ruined by all the unecassary moments.

    Season 4 needs to be really good for me to give this show another shot.    … Expand
  2. kirkender
    Jul 4, 2019
    3
    "Regressive, Boring Things" is a more apt title. Its filled with rehashed tropes with zero commentary or evolution. Its nostalgia without applying a modern perspective to remove the problematic elements. 100% of the women characters have zero depth and Eleven is basically a mentally disabled "make-out" doll who speaks broken sentences but otherwise retains nothing from her previous lifes"Regressive, Boring Things" is a more apt title. Its filled with rehashed tropes with zero commentary or evolution. Its nostalgia without applying a modern perspective to remove the problematic elements. 100% of the women characters have zero depth and Eleven is basically a mentally disabled "make-out" doll who speaks broken sentences but otherwise retains nothing from her previous lifes trauma. The editing is choppy, derivative and frenetic. Scenes jump constantly with no tact or intent. Mild commentary on issues (small town business killed by big mall) is uninformed, and inaccurate. The worst offender - the "strange" - is such a hodgepodge of other better sci-fi / horror that all the tension and surprise is known at the beginning of scenes. Is this one based on Alien? Yes. Is this one Invasion of the Body Snatchers? Yes? Close Encounters? You betcha - without any building or even competent replication. Its soooo boring.… Expand
  3. EmperorZoltan
    Jul 15, 2019
    3
    Felt like a **** teen romance fan fic. Stranger things 3 Is haphazardly edited, over egged and far more concerned with trying to pull unearned nostalgia or emotional strings than tell a scary, interesting story

    There's an episode in season 2 that had a bunch of random characters from another city. Everyone hates that episode. And this season felt like a full show of nothing but that.    Felt like a **** teen romance fan fic. Stranger things 3 Is haphazardly edited, over egged and far more concerned with trying to pull unearned nostalgia or emotional strings than tell a scary, interesting story

    There's an episode in season 2 that had a bunch of random characters from another city. Everyone hates that episode. And this season felt like a full show of nothing but that.

    Character plots are all over the place and constantly stamp obtop of another as the worst editor I've ever seen tries to smash each disconeccted story arc into one another. But if that wasn't bad enough, just as things become interesting or tense, they cut away to a different set of characters, draining all tension with yet another 80s reference or emotional scene. I don't know who was in charge this season but something was definitely off.    … Expand
  4. liquefire
    Jul 12, 2019
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't write many reviews but when I do it's because what I watched was just so awful.

    Throughout this season there is feeling of filler content and dragging stuff out.

    This season centers around a mall.

    Also, it centers around a military complex under a mall.

    Worst of all, it centers around a Russian military complex under the mall which the US military has no clue about until the last few minutes of the series.

    Also, you have what amounts to a poop monster running around town on July 4 without anyone noticing it because....... everyone is at the fair, where a russian assassin walks around with a gun in plain sight and yet ... no one notices.    … Expand
  5. OmGemz
    Jul 15, 2019
    0
    I’m a huge fan of Stranger things... this season was awful. I’m sure youll watch it either way to see for yourself but if any person on the show sees this, just know I’m extremely disappointed with the story and dialogue. They should have stopped while they were ahead.
  6. dannyt986
    Jul 23, 2019
    0
    Seasons 1 and 2 had decent character development and the scary monster plot kind of fitted the 80's retro schtick. Season 3 really should never have been made is the nicest thing I can think to say about it.
  7. MFT
    Jul 11, 2019
    3
    I loved previous two seasons and im not sure what happened here but third season turned out to be incredibly, agonizingly boring. Plot barely chugs along with nothing actually changing. In fact entire seasons major event's and all of the plots could've been compressed in one episode and the rest is just a filler of usual mistrusts, misunderstandings and obnoxious kissing scenes. I can'tI loved previous two seasons and im not sure what happened here but third season turned out to be incredibly, agonizingly boring. Plot barely chugs along with nothing actually changing. In fact entire seasons major event's and all of the plots could've been compressed in one episode and the rest is just a filler of usual mistrusts, misunderstandings and obnoxious kissing scenes. I can't say that that the show is now bad but it was very boring. So much so that i found myself skipping some of the scenes and still nothing has been lost or changed.… Expand
  8. Berik
    Jul 14, 2019
    5
    Unfortunately Season 3 is quite a drop off in quality in comparison to the first two seasons. The show was never a work of realism, but it wasn't cliché... until now.

    The first red flags that come up are the overwhelming amount of characters. Most of the main cast from season 1 has become filler as only a few characters actually matter in this season. The stakes feel lower than before,    Unfortunately Season 3 is quite a drop off in quality in comparison to the first two seasons. The show was never a work of realism, but it wasn't cliché... until now.

    The first red flags that come up are the overwhelming amount of characters. Most of the main cast from season 1 has become filler as only a few characters actually matter in this season. The stakes feel lower than before, and a lot of potential from season 2 (the other psychic children) is completely thrown away in favor of a story about mind snatchers and teenagers who have become run of the mill whiny bastards.

    This time, Russians have decided to build a facility under a mall to open a portal to the upside down! And this enables the great monster from season 2 to return! And if that sounds underwhelming to you, than you are absolutely right! The Russians fit in the cold war theme of the 80's, but add nothing to the plot than being an irritating inconvenience. The monster, which had demon dogs in season 2, does basically nothing once it has emerged. It bites someone, walks around while growling, and is incapable of destroying a house... despite the fact it can literally tear massive trees out of the ground!? **** SO DUMB!

    Also, i was stunned by the amount of 'last minute saves when it appears someone will die.' It was so juvenile, so overwhelmingly often that you never actually believe someone will die anymore. In fact, all the main characters have Drogon levels of plot armor. So stupid.

    The amount of boring, unnecessary dialogue in this season is off the charts! It feels like this season was mostly made to increase Milly Bobby Brown's portfolio, rather than to actually make a good show.

    Watching this season was quite boring, and disappointing considering the first 2 seasons were so good. It was underwhelming. I give this season a 5/10.    … Expand
  9. Magic120
    Jul 14, 2019
    0
    More of the same, the series go downhill every new season... Tha singing part in the last episode is disgusting
  10. SolidSovereign
    Jul 5, 2019
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first few episodes start out very slow, after episode 4 the action picks up to a relative speed. The whole season is very predictable though allowing no room for surprises. The overall story of this season is the weakest out of all of the seasons. Far to much time was spent on characters that weren't established very well. Characters were forcibly separated to cause suspense and set up story dynamics that didn't make much sense in the first place. The forced separation caused a lack of interaction between fan-favorite characters. The antagonist of this season is the weakest and most uninteresting yet (even though technically its the same thing). The ending is weak and very cliche. Overall the season is very disappointing 1/10… Expand
  11. garmonbozia
    Jul 7, 2019
    5
    We’ve been down this road before. “Stranger things” season 3 is more of the same. It is entertaining at times, but mostly it recycles the same plot lines and the same events from previous seasons. It lacks originality. It moves too slow (it hasn’t got a story for 8 hour-long episodes). It has too much annoying product placement scenes. It lacks excitement and mystery. The Upside Down seemsWe’ve been down this road before. “Stranger things” season 3 is more of the same. It is entertaining at times, but mostly it recycles the same plot lines and the same events from previous seasons. It lacks originality. It moves too slow (it hasn’t got a story for 8 hour-long episodes). It has too much annoying product placement scenes. It lacks excitement and mystery. The Upside Down seems to be a dull place. For the third time characters are dealing with a slightly different, yet the same “monster”. The ending shows that the creators have even more of the same in store for season 4. Again a monster we’ve already seen and more Russians. Something strange happened with the actors (or is it bad writing?). Too much yelling (“It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia” style). A lot of dialog seemed unnatural, and some of the acting was odd – like you knew that actors were “acting” – which is never good. Noah Schnapp who was one of the best things and a true star of the second season (the worst season so far), in season 3 had nothing to do besides touching his neck and “feeling the presence of the monster”. Hopper was one of the most likeable characters in the first season – now he’s mostly annoying. Mike was also very mediocre. With puberty came bad acting? Or is it again - bad writing? Hawkins seems to be abandoned by all of its inhabitants – I get it - they were all at the funfair. And nobody worked in the mall, all of the people left within two minutes, because two Russians told them so. And all the **** that happened seemed to have zero effect on the people and the world around them. Yes, we saw a TV report, but still all of the people act like nothing happened. Loads of people died, a monster destroyed the centre of the town and three months later, people are OK with it. Where is the army? The FBI? the CIA? This town should be under 10 years quarantine and people removed from the area. Soldiers with guns on the streets. Two major characters “died”. The one that died for real (it’s a shame), the one that “died” (fake death) – was too obvious, and creators denied his emotional farewell with the end credits scene (5 minutes later). He’s dead, but not really – anybody surprised? Having written all of the above - this season was better than the previous one. It’s a popcorn entertainment, full of mediocre jokes, mediocre plot solutions, and a story that isn’t forth 8 hours of your life (six at best). It’s an OK season, but creatively stale. Time to stir things up Duffer brothers. Make The Upside Down Exiting and mysterious again. Ditch the flower-faced monster.… Expand
  12. mjl14
    Jul 6, 2019
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. SPOILERS
    Stranger Things 3 had a sick opening scene and post credits scene that can push the narrative in a really cool direction but unfortunately, everything in between was a cheesfest. The first season was so eery and serious, with slight comedic effects.Season two got goofy and now Things 3 is just a straight up teen dramaedy, not a sci-fi horror.I wanted to see a serious, mature show, not this. It's too bad cuz there is so much potential with a cool plot like this but they just focus too much on corny character development.And I feel like the Mind Flayer stuff is just straight up randomness and the Duffer Brothers refuse to hint at what the Upside Down is all about.They should've made this an anthology series, would've been way better.    … Expand
  13. Captiosus
    Jul 6, 2019
    6
    I feel like I'm in my own personal Upside Down when I hear family and friends praising season 3. After watching it over the span of two nights, I was left wanting. The show feels like it's staining to remain fresh.

    The Russian plot point (a literal deus ex machina) was poorly set up, only tangentially linked by comments in the prior two seasons. It felt like they were struggling to come    I feel like I'm in my own personal Upside Down when I hear family and friends praising season 3. After watching it over the span of two nights, I was left wanting. The show feels like it's staining to remain fresh.

    The Russian plot point (a literal deus ex machina) was poorly set up, only tangentially linked by comments in the prior two seasons. It felt like they were struggling to come up with an idea to terrorize Hawkins a third time and "What about the Russians!" was the best idea they could come up with. Character progression is decent but predictable and full of typical teen tropes that they don't even attempt to hide. The 80's references have gone from being a background setting to being front-and-center, in-your-face - often feeling more like you're watching a commercial for 80s products than a show themed in the 1980s. And it took maybe 30 minutes to realize this entire season was "inspired by" Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Terminator, as they essentially lift the elements from these movies whole cloth and plug them into their own script like fan fiction.

    It's hard to fully articulate my feelings in words because they're just so "meh", so I can best describe my thoughts this way: Unlike season 1 and most of season 2 (which had a sophomore slump and some low points like Elle's solo adventure), I found the vast majority of season 3 utterly forgettable. Very little of what happened is consequential and literally the only thing that will matter going forward into season 4 will be elements of the epilogue.    … Expand
  14. flametail23
    Jul 13, 2019
    5
    This season was alright. Quite slow to begin with, with a few highlights sprinkled throughout and a predictable ending.
  15. HSM1
    Jul 6, 2019
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Every single scene is an advertisement for coke. There is even a point where it becomes part of the story.… Expand
  16. leopoldfrank
    Jul 6, 2019
    5
    If season 1 was the E.T. of TV series then this season was the Adventures in Babysitting of TV series.
  17. Satanski
    Jul 7, 2019
    0
    My god, what did they do to this series... This season is just unwatchable teenager crap. Also, i'm so fed up with political correctness. I'm done with it
  18. strangel0ve
    Jul 4, 2019
    4
    Further, if not at all necessary proof, that season one was a fortuitous event, its heavy reliance on themes and techniques of certain kind of movie masterpieces of certain era is what gave it its charm and emotional depth. It also mitigated all the inherent sillines. Now I don't even know whats going on in this show, nor do I care.
  19. RustyRhino
    Jul 4, 2019
    3
    If I was asked to sum up this series in one word it would be "Upsetting". The overtly political jabs they throw at capitalism and the current era we are in is so blatantly obvious it's ridiculous. I understand Netflix is getting "Woke" but come on entertainment is there to enjoy keep that **** out of it I don't give a damn about what side of the aisle you are on. The characters seem boringIf I was asked to sum up this series in one word it would be "Upsetting". The overtly political jabs they throw at capitalism and the current era we are in is so blatantly obvious it's ridiculous. I understand Netflix is getting "Woke" but come on entertainment is there to enjoy keep that **** out of it I don't give a damn about what side of the aisle you are on. The characters seem boring and kinda just dull now no growth what so ever. I was bored halfway through each episode and it started to drag on and on and on and on. I am also a little disturbed that they had KIDS make out that much on set could have done those scenes a little more tactfully.… Expand
  20. Kannibal
    Jul 5, 2019
    8
    Not the strongest season but still better than most things on TV. Overly heavy-handed with its message and the story is bloated but thoroughly enjoyable and Millie Bobby Brown's performance is commendable.
  21. ali_arkani
    Jul 7, 2019
    6
    This season was packed with thrill and excitement, but the story and setting was too used up. You can't make an unlimited number of shows with the same story, villains and heroes before you make your audience bored and Duffer brothers need to acknowledge this!
  22. greenisgood
    Jul 18, 2019
    6
    The Main Cast that we followed through 2 seasons are better even as teenagers in turn giving us satisfying character interactions, this was the high point for me through out the season. Unfortunately The main aspect of the show which was the most excellent in it's maiden outing 'The Season's Writing' seems to be deteriorating over the course of time.

    TL;DR - A disappointment compared to    The Main Cast that we followed through 2 seasons are better even as teenagers in turn giving us satisfying character interactions, this was the high point for me through out the season. Unfortunately The main aspect of the show which was the most excellent in it's maiden outing 'The Season's Writing' seems to be deteriorating over the course of time.

    TL;DR - A disappointment compared to Excellent S1 and almost on par to S2, my score is result of 'Overall Story Arc' Writing that seems to be slipping downwards and no furtherance of anything with the Upside Down other than closing another portal. Needs get back to the Amazing Lore and Tight Writing that propelled this show to its fame in the first place.

    The Good...
    Everyone from the past seasons along with the new additions to the team were well written, save Lucas's sister which we will get to later; but for the most part character writing/arcs was the best thing in this season. Murray Bauman's Straight to the point was my personal favorite as it is still refreshing this time around as well.
    The cinematography/VFX were polished akin to a nice new coat of paint and wax on your trusted ride... Even though I see a lot of people saying the Nostalgia Milking was overdone, this was not the case; thankfully not yet. In fact I was in awe at the level of detail that went into the creation of of 80's feel. In short Character Writing, Production Design as well as Music were the most positive parts of the season, and I did not mind the inspirations from The Blob and The Thing for our creature designs.

    Now The BAd...
    I Think it is safe to say Arnold's character from T2 is probably the most over used cliche across all forms of media period. Seeing it used to an extent of a parallel main antagonist was really getting to me. The fact that this decision was consciously taken makes me worried about the future of the show hoping we do not devolve from the excellent imaginative lore of S1, aka the Upside Down and its ecology does not get lost amidst generic money making cliches.
    Some of the teen drama, though understandable considering the age was bordering on being bad cliches. Thankfully it just about held itself from overdoing it and we got down to brass tacks before it got nauseating, they need to balance it out better for future seasons.

    As for weak characterizations Erica Sinclair really reminded me why I generally dislike super cliched characters of child actors, all the more surprising since S1 and S2 were primarily kids that I absolutely Wanted to be friends with because of how well they were written. She was so one note through out, it would have helped to see some kind of fear or any other emotion from her during the course of the season. Maybe being dialed to 11 considering her age seemed like a good idea, but that is exactly why it also was the sore thumb; everyone else was given complex and believable writing wonder why they left her out. I do not believe for a second it was just for humor, because the rest of the cast were pulling off humor as well as individuality pretty well.
    Hopper seemed a bit; for the lack of a better term dumb this time around. The side plot of an experienced police officer and father to a second female child unable to find a way to have a proper birds and bees conversation or a Man to Man with Mike; instead devolving into a 'Stay Away From My Daughter' meathead was jarring. After 2 seasons Hopper seems to have regressed rather than grow.

    This was a quite a disappointment compared to S1 and almost on par to S2, my score is a result of 'Overall Story Arc' Writing that seems to be slipping downwards and no furtherance of anything with the Upside Down other than closing another portal.
    Also Maybe find smarter ways to inculcate the Product Placement, because other than the 'New Coke' which was kinda a big deal at the time considering the history behind the 'New Coke Recipe' debacle; product logos seemed very IN Your Face this time around.
    Hopefully we get back to the Amazing Lore and Tight Writing that propelled this show to its fame in the first place.    … Expand
  23. srtafozex
    Jul 5, 2019
    8
    Thank you, Duffer brothers, for this science fiction masterpiece. This season, the screenplay comes more mature, with smart strategies and breathtaking moments. One of the best new seasons of american television, alongside Big Little Lies
  24. UncleWillard
    Jul 7, 2019
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Criticism for this has been pretty spot on; the Duffer Brothers sacrifices story for action and effects. This was always a YA sci-fi/horror story slathered in 80s nostalgia, but the action and nostalgia were amped up at the sacrifice of story and character development. At times this is downright smarmy and disgusting (Dustin and Suzys rendition of Neverending Story for example).

    Newcomer Robin (Maya Hawke) is a welcome addition, as is more of Brett Gelman, but I really wish they would have fed Erica (Priah Ferguson) to the monster in the first episode. What an annoying character. Same goes for Max with her faux Riot Girrl act. Hopper and Wills mom are comical and hammy, while the older kids, Nancy and Jonathan are practically absent (barring a stupid feminist narrative around Nancy's desire to be a reporter though she was hired as a receptionist).

    Hopper was reduced to kind of a Bluto-esque neanderthal with a hero's heart, so I guess that ends the romantic tension with Eill's mom (can't be bothered to remember her name). But did he die or go through the portal for season 4?


    And Billy symbolizes the death of toxic masculinity? He's a douchebag, but ultimately sacrifices himself for...something? Maybe Max will develop beyond her live/hate relationship with boys?

    For all the lights and action, it felt like not much happened. This barely feels connected to the series. Almost a summer spin-off of Stranger Things. Like eating dessert first before an otherwise bland and formulaic meal.    … Expand
  25. EerieDemonble
    Jul 6, 2019
    4
    "Meh" is the only way I can describe this season. And it was first time I watched half of the season using fast forward button...
    Main story and sub plots are just weak. Many new characters are outright cartoonish. No new lore about shadow dimension. And there is WAY too much comedy this season. It's hard to take horror or drama parts seriously when there is jokes and puns every 5 min.    "Meh" is the only way I can describe this season. And it was first time I watched half of the season using fast forward button...
    Main story and sub plots are just weak. Many new characters are outright cartoonish. No new lore about shadow dimension. And there is WAY too much comedy this season. It's hard to take horror or drama parts seriously when there is jokes and puns every 5 min.
    At least acting was good    … Expand
  26. Xazoir
    Jul 6, 2019
    3
    Overall very weak season, i was watching it and i didnt give a damn care about what was happening on the screen. The obvious s**t about political correctness and forcing agendas just throw me more distant from the show. Netflix have withstand that kind of s**t in first two season, but in the third they went full Netflix agendas. Whole season felt ultimatly forced. Certintly not waiting forOverall very weak season, i was watching it and i didnt give a damn care about what was happening on the screen. The obvious s**t about political correctness and forcing agendas just throw me more distant from the show. Netflix have withstand that kind of s**t in first two season, but in the third they went full Netflix agendas. Whole season felt ultimatly forced. Certintly not waiting for another season and not recommend to anybody to watch it. Waste of time.… Expand
  27. Voodoo123
    Jul 6, 2019
    7
    +Great cast
    +Excellent cinematography
    +Noticeable increase in production value -Screenplay services the bigger budget effects at the expense of higher quality writing. As much as I did enjoy watching S3, I couldn't help but feel the spectacle got in the way of the character development this time around... There were too many forced 'team up 80's style' moments and not enough of the    +Great cast
    +Excellent cinematography
    +Noticeable increase in production value
    -Screenplay services the bigger budget effects at the expense of higher quality writing.

    As much as I did enjoy watching S3, I couldn't help but feel the spectacle got in the way of the character development this time around... There were too many forced 'team up 80's style' moments and not enough of the slower paced dramas that made the first season so appealing to me. I get the feeling if the Duffers had moved to a different cast (maybe even location) more could've been done to serve a good horror / drama rather than service an audience with more of what worked last time. Don't get me wrong folks, the quality is superb and if you enjoyed the first couple seasons this is essential viewing.    … Expand
  28. darkside2922
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. spoiler: Aunque la temporada empieza como si fuese un drama adolescente pues no es así ya que al avanzar con los episodios nos damos cuenta que la historia no fresca pero da algo porque continuar episodio a episodio la historia es interesante ya que te da algo (no nuevo) pero interesante como que los villanos ahora son rusos y la nueva bestia (billy)apenas voy dos días y ya acabe la serie en fin yo le doy diez de diez ya que me apasiona la serie.… Expand
  29. asgard24
    Jul 5, 2019
    8
    This season starts very low on its first two episodes. The characters feel disassociated, and very disconnected, and there’s really no mystery or nothing interesting to see than the gang being jerks with each other. But after episodes 3 and 4 the season starts building that so called tension we all expected. There were still many plot fails and the season overall wasn’t good enough to beatThis season starts very low on its first two episodes. The characters feel disassociated, and very disconnected, and there’s really no mystery or nothing interesting to see than the gang being jerks with each other. But after episodes 3 and 4 the season starts building that so called tension we all expected. There were still many plot fails and the season overall wasn’t good enough to beat the first one, but overall, despite its awful start and its multiple errors, this season holds up to the hype it built, and for a good part, it was a step into the right direction after season 2, which could not give the series the sequel it deserved. Not saying this season is what season 2 should have been, but I can say it’s not as overwhelming as it’ predecessor.… Expand
  30. arkhlongstride
    Jul 9, 2019
    0
    Femminism and memes non stop. Nope. Also screams, lots of screams. S01 was nice, 02 sucked. This is a joke
  31. Cinos
    Jul 7, 2019
    9
    Strong season 3. Loved the addition of the new characters. Wish they would have done more (or anything) with the upside down realm. But towards the very end me and the wife got teary eyed over the emotional conclusion. Not a perfect season but out right enjoyable. Damn Russians!!
  32. Lambo442
    Jul 11, 2019
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Very entertaining as usual and beautiful to look at, but a few elements put me off a bit. Firstly, the whole gang are seperated throughout most of the series. It feels weird with Dustin being missing from the dynamic. Then, things are just getting a bit rehashed and old. They have to close another gate? Come on. More secret facilities? It's a bit unoriginal now. The whole 'reaching out to Billy through one of his childhood memories' thing was a bit lame. Eleven describes details from the memory to him that he wouldn't even remember. So yeah, Billy's just damaged really, so now we have empathy for Billy.
    Then, when Hopper supposedly dies, there's no investigation, nobody in the community seems fussed. A depressing note to end it on too. Plus Hopper is irritating throughout the whole season. All he does is yell at Joyce Byers.
    You also get the impression that the sets are just being used for background eye candy, which feels a bit contrived. Like Starcourt being all Neon and lit up at night for the action.
    Entertaining, but dissapointing.    … Expand
  33. Cylfuria
    Jul 7, 2019
    0
    Violence, gore, teenage sex, feminism, Russians, product placement, spousal abuse, statutory rape fantasies, man babies, woman haters, terrible writing, and everything you can usually expect from Hollywood/Netflix, wrapped up into a nice neat little package of nostalgia. No thanks. Season 1 was great. Season 2 was good at best. Season 3 is like Game of Thrones Finale Bad. Like, Star WarsViolence, gore, teenage sex, feminism, Russians, product placement, spousal abuse, statutory rape fantasies, man babies, woman haters, terrible writing, and everything you can usually expect from Hollywood/Netflix, wrapped up into a nice neat little package of nostalgia. No thanks. Season 1 was great. Season 2 was good at best. Season 3 is like Game of Thrones Finale Bad. Like, Star Wars The Last Jedi Bad. Okay, maybe not THAT bad. But still, it’s a huge waste of time. Skip it and watch something much better, like The King’s Speech, also available on Netflix.… Expand
  34. ArturReview
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    The best season of the show, with outstanding effects, acting and emotional and powerful moments. The new characters are fun and a good addition to the show, the ones I loved the most were Alexei and Robin.
  35. Jdank
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    The Duffer Brothers hit another one out of the park and kept the Stranger Things train moving full steam ahead. The kids are older and the stakes are greater and we get some new great cast additions
  36. jneeley
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    What.A.Season.

    The writing is fantastic as are the characters we know and love. As of right now, this is the best Stranger Things season to date.
  37. Theghostgamebr
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Netflix now scoped for the fun, I wont say anything more. You just Must Watch it, it's whorth it believe me.
  38. Littlegizmo
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Its epic good scary fun crazy strange weird... wow .. i want more ... thank you
  39. weverson
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Stranger Things new season is brilliant and AMAZING. The best season yet .
  40. afaman
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Amazing show! The season development is perfect and it's incredible what they have done to the show
  41. Yourmumsbills
    Jul 6, 2019
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Season 3 is an improvement on season 2, but that's not saying much as season two was, to be honest, a bit of a mess. The things season 3 gets right, it really gets right. The comedy is well written and funny, The Steve and Robin relationship is great fun as is the pairing of Joyce and Hopper. As for the rest, well its all a bit messy. Max is just snappy and annoying which becomes irritating very quickly, Eleven has very few lines at all, and if it wasn't for her powers she would be an entirely useless character. Dustin has some great screen time and as always is very well played, but the deliberate seperating of all the characters seems forced which leaves all the other kids almost superfluous to the story. And the story is where it all falls apart. Russians in a huge underground lair is so cliche and James Bond like, it's laughable (not in a good way) And that is basically the whole 8 episodes. We get a lot of explosions, gore a group of adolescents that haven't been allowed to grow up out of their kids clothes and haircuts and a lot of Russian bad guys (Including a ridiculous Terminator like character) but nothing about the upside down, what it is, why it's there etc. Basically nothing we actually want to see. I just wish they had spent more time writing a decent story and less time on trying to cram in 80's nostalgia references and product placement (blatant and quite awful, some episodes just feel like ads for coke and burger king)

    But you only need to get about half way through the season to realise that they're trying to stretch this out to ensure a fourth and even fifth season (lets face it, they'll milk this cash cow as long as possible)
    And by the time you get to the end you already know whats coming and it's all a bit of an anticlimax.    … Expand
  42. eagleeyeviking
    Jul 8, 2019
    7
    “Stranger Things” offsets a slow start with a triumphant, emotionally satisfying ending. The plot is fantastic, the characters are wonderful as usual, and the theme of growing up is handled well.
  43. namon295
    Jul 7, 2019
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Was good but didn't love it like I did the first two seasons. The best part of previous seasons were the kids and the chemistry they shared, and things were just too frantic for the personal moments to come out in 3. Hop and Joyce were reduced to Starsky and Hutch.

    It was one thing to relive the 80s in a subtle way that felt natural, versus product placement with an 80s paint job every five seconds and thrust into your face. The whole Russian story line was just too absurd, even for a show whose foundation is built on crazy. And most of all the innocent and sweet relationship between Mike and Eleven as well as Eleven and Hopper's relationship was lost this time around in the name of manufactured angst filled drama.

    It definitely wasn't as bad as the latest seasons of Walking Dead or Game of Thrones season 8 by any means, but I can't help but be a little let down either.    … Expand
  44. LuminousBeing
    Jul 9, 2019
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Where to begin? The Duffers have lost their way I fear this time. When they announced way back when that season 3 was going to be "bigger", "more action packed" and "spectacular" I already began to worry. I think the best way to approach this review might be to simply list my issues with it in point form:

    1) Hopper, my favorite character, who used to be the last bastion of reason, is now reduced to a caricature of himself, explosively reacting over nothing at times, inept at others, confusing at best. He just isn't Hopper anymore, and don't give me that "well now he has a daughter, and it's later and they've changed" line. Ridiculous.

    2) Speaking of caricatures, how about all of the kids? Wearing the same clothes and sporting the same haircuts of their 11-year-old former selves, they digress constantly into typical catchphrases and motivations that nobody can understand. What's up with Eleven? Sucking face, and staring ominously with a raised hand is her present skill set, oh, and "dumping your a$$", thanks to the superficial advice of her new shallow friend "Maxine", who many will remember as the previously deep, well-developed character "Mad-Max" who was pretty much enemies with Eleven. Mike, the shy and caring introvert is now an obnoxious arse, and Lucas, known for his derring do, is pretty much a panty-whipped weakling when he's not busy farting. Thank god at least Dustin seems to have escaped the re-writes relatively unscathed. Steve Harrington now lets others take charge and prances around comically in a sailor outfit. Nancy is annoying and her partner Jonathan barely says a word, or completes an action.
    Joyce knows there's a Russian plot immediately because her fridge magnets don't stick...never mind trying some other magnets, no, just drag Hopper up to Hawkins lab to be conveniently ambushed by... you guessed it, a Russian! What was he doing there? I don't actually care now that I think about it.

    3) The Russians. Ok I think the stupidity of this premise speaks for itself. Somehow what seems to be between 20-30 Russian nationals have built a giant base under the local mall, and guard it in broad daylight with machine guns. Not once does one of the mall managers ask, "say...where did this extra loading dock come from? I didn't put that here!" How did they transport all the building materials there? One brick at a time in cardboard boxes stamped "Toys R' Us"?

    4) Postmodernist propaganda. As others have already mentioned, the show is infused with man-hating propaganda. Every guy is a bumbling idiot who takes a back seat (sometimes rudely) to the women, all of whom know the solution to everything instinctively. When I saw this BS in the Last Jedi, I decided to cut ties to the Star Wars franchise. This is good-bye to Stranger Things for me.

    5) Erica. When I heard she was going to be prominent in season 3, I was stoked. In season two she had some really funny lines, and I expected the makers to develop her, to turn her into essentially what would have been a new facet of the gang. But no. She is completely one-dimensional, an annoying, ugly little sarcastic, insulting gargoyle who simply won't shut up long enough to let you assess if she may or may not have any motivations, other than crapping on the rest of the cast, that is.

    Add to all of this, choppy, irrational editing, terribly inappropriate soundtrack choices (where's the panic-inducing analogue synth tension? Instead we're treated to something resembling a John Williams score for most of the season, that is, if John Williams had been hit in the forehead with a golf ball flying off a KobraKing driver.), over-reliance on sfx, and scenes that try to be funny but drag on so long I wondered if it wasn't some kind of Family Guy sketch. Oh really, Smirnoff? You want strawberry, ok well let's kill a significant percentage of the show's running length on that mind-numbing idiocy. Joyce and Hopper have sexual tension? Well how about making that happen organically through clever writing instead of having Murray screaming it from the back seat of a car after almost zero development in that direction? This kind of decision making with our beloved characters is rampant this season, there are just too many instances to list here.

    In conclusion, if you watched the first two seasons and were only interested in some cool creatures and a sci-fi/supernatural element, combined with 80's nostalgia, you may be ok with this teeny, paper-thin crap. If, however, you were drawn to Stranger Things because you, like me, realized that the Duffers pulled off something of a miracle in this day and age (a show actually driven by story telling and a strong cast of characters, full of emotion and real drama combined with great ideas and brilliant acting), you might feel like puking your Eggos all over your flat-screen.    … Expand
  45. xDWx
    Jul 8, 2019
    4
    This show is very... ok. Not terrible, just vastly overrated. Season 3 has more gory moments than scary ones, which made it less interesting. So many of the episodes feel like they're treading water with the relationship melodrama. The big monster seemed kind of generic, and I felt the end fight to be underwhelming. I also didn't appreciate the way this time around they chose to turnThis show is very... ok. Not terrible, just vastly overrated. Season 3 has more gory moments than scary ones, which made it less interesting. So many of the episodes feel like they're treading water with the relationship melodrama. The big monster seemed kind of generic, and I felt the end fight to be underwhelming. I also didn't appreciate the way this time around they chose to turn all the male characters into buffoons for most of this season (very trendy in Hollywood these days), but at least they all went more or less back to normal for the big group battle in the last two episodes.

    I feel like there was so much wasted potential. I wish they would have done something more clever with the Russians or zombies, but the show seems to be more about making '80s references than in doing something original with them.

    On the positive side, the way they manage to replicate '80s period dress and settings is pretty impressive. I always enjoy Brett Gelman's character, and I thought Maya Hawke was pretty decent as a newcomer actress. There's also a surprise song in the last episode that made me genuinely laugh out loud.    … Expand
  46. Teddynz
    Jul 10, 2019
    3
    Too much pc nonsense, so tired of it infecting tv shows, it really does wreck them.
  47. RogueExperience
    Jul 7, 2019
    10
    Best season of Stranger Things yet! New characters, new interests, more action, more drama!
    Great show that only gets bettter!
  48. ROAR11
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    I thought this was better than all the previous seasons. No wasted episodes, great story, great characters. Just a fun summer horror. It's always borderline cheesy, but it's really not at all. Its ridiculous, but don't take it too seriously and you have a fun 10 episodes to watch. Every bit as good as the previous seasons if not better.
  49. pablo_delRey
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    I looooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooved it it was super good thanks netflix
  50. Hackattaque
    Jul 7, 2019
    7
    Stranger Things Season 3 does a pretty solid job of squeezing more thrills and spills out of a group of characters and an 80s setting that we have become VERY familiar with by now. But despite excellent plotting and some chilling scenes, the final act is predictable and the retro references veer very close to self-parody.

    Almost all the action takes place in the outside world this time    Stranger Things Season 3 does a pretty solid job of squeezing more thrills and spills out of a group of characters and an 80s setting that we have become VERY familiar with by now. But despite excellent plotting and some chilling scenes, the final act is predictable and the retro references veer very close to self-parody.

    Almost all the action takes place in the outside world this time around, which allows for some bright and colourful sets like the new Starcourt Mall and the spooky Soviet military base. It also allows for the full horror of the Mind Flayer to get a lot of screen time: After initially seeing shadows and shots of icky tentacles, we get some full-on action/sci-fi fights with it in frame.

    I have to admit I kind of missed the Upside Down, even if for plot reasons it makes complete sense to not have it play a big part. Without spoiling too much, this season is all about the demon’s attempt to take over Harcourt, now that his own world is barred. It’s a real joy to watch the horror side of things build up, as some nasty and unsettling incidents around town alert the gang to danger. But it’s a shame the most unique visual and narrative part of Stranger Things is minor here.

    As great as the first half of the season is, by the time the inevitable confrontation rolls around, you’re left pining for the one major thing missing: hair-raising emotional stakes. Winona Ryder really carried the first two seasons as a desperate mother on the edge, with her son Will in mortal danger. This time around that’s not the case; Will barely features. The only character who is personally right in the firing line is Billy, yet nobody seems to truly be fighting for him — not even his sister. Without that deep emotional core, you’re left with a solid horror/sci-fi tale that tries to balance the gloom with ‘zany’ 80s antics. This show has never quite so shamelessly gone for a “Goonies” tone: sometimes it’s bearable, such as when teenagers high on laughing gas are interrogated by a Bond-movie-level Russian general, but too many times I was rolling my eyes. The finale’s singalong of a certain classic kids anthem was excruciating.

    After Season 1 rocked my world, and Season 2 unexpectedly impressed me almost as much, Season 3 feels like a merely competent follow-up that narrowly avoids ruining the franchise. It’s enjoyable, but any attempt at a Season 4 should come with a lot of work beforehand.    … Expand
  51. ParsiGame
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. so very good. and Millie bobby brown is the best. and i love it. and season 3 better than season 2.… Expand
  52. Reed618
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    I'm surprised this season hasn't got a higher score. I thought they handled the characters aging in a really fun way.
    The 80's vibe is still super fun and the whole group of plucky kids taking on dangers far beyond them thing works as well as ever.
    There are some new elements which may seem kind of cliched I guess but as long as the characters remain so lovable and tensions stay high    I'm surprised this season hasn't got a higher score. I thought they handled the characters aging in a really fun way.
    The 80's vibe is still super fun and the whole group of plucky kids taking on dangers far beyond them thing works as well as ever.
    There are some new elements which may seem kind of cliched I guess but as long as the characters remain so lovable and tensions stay high i'll keep looking forward to every episode the creators make :).
    I particularly enjoyed the addition of Robin. I'm also still a huge fan of Steve. The man was born to carry a scooper.    … Expand
  53. juniorcc27
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    the best season of the show. Great performances, incredible production, great quality photography. deserves several indications to emmys
  54. rodrigodsf
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    Breathtaking!
    This may just be the best show on Netflix. Everything is fantastic. The show is set in the 1980's, and that works well with the plot devices and really makes the show possible. The characters on this show are very well fleshed out, and they all feel like real people, even minor characters that are only present in 1 or 2 scenes. The pacing on the show is also fantastic. The    Breathtaking!
    This may just be the best show on Netflix. Everything is fantastic. The show is set in the 1980's, and that works well with the plot devices and really makes the show possible. The characters on this show are very well fleshed out, and they all feel like real people, even minor characters that are only present in 1 or 2 scenes. The pacing on the show is also fantastic. The show only tells the viewer little bits of information, enough that they know what is going on, but not too much that it just gives away the answers. This keeps the show interesting. The acting is great too... You have to watch it!    … Expand
  55. electricshaman
    Jul 7, 2019
    10
    It's good, not as good as the first but much better than the second. I say go for it.
  56. Underseamouse
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    The overall season is great. The season 3 is not better than previous seasons, the story is more primitive and simple. Some heroes are not necessary for the story (Will, Lucas) and overall there is nothing new for the world. But for now it's one of the best shows.Yep, season 3 didn't jump over his head, but overall it's great.
  57. titan221996
    Jul 9, 2019
    0
    Отвратительно!Сценарий, Стереотипы о СССР , Актёрская игра:Майк, Шериф , намного хуже стала постановка,затянутые сцены смысла у , которых ноль!Короче , всё очень плохо. Netflix иди в задницу за такой мерзкий сезон!
  58. AaronAction
    Jul 6, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I personally would give this a solid 8.5 or an B to B plus rating. The visual effects were pretty spectacular, and the settings like the fair were nistolgic of my own memories and childhood of watching the fireworks while riding a ferris wheel. The budget for this 8 chapter season is high and I would recommend that any one with Netflix watch this gem.… Expand
  59. Jakerbox
    Jul 7, 2019
    9
    First couple episodes are a little slower and definitely serve their purpose, which is to get everyone into the 1985 era again. There's some nice character building too, and Max and El go from frenemies to genuine friends which the series really needed. This season REALLY picks up the pace after those two episodes and the new threat against Hawkins becomes real and actually frightening.First couple episodes are a little slower and definitely serve their purpose, which is to get everyone into the 1985 era again. There's some nice character building too, and Max and El go from frenemies to genuine friends which the series really needed. This season REALLY picks up the pace after those two episodes and the new threat against Hawkins becomes real and actually frightening. Overall, the usual Stranger Things tropes (good old fashioned kid adventures, conflict in the friend group, and extremely creative solutions to problems WAY too big to be dealt with by kids) all make this season feel just the right amount of familiar while also expanding the world and magnifying the kids' impact on it. Also, Hopper keeps his place as the best Dad on television. Robin is the best new character. Easy recommendation.… Expand
  60. SKYs
    Jul 8, 2019
    9
    Ein bisschen schnell erzählt, hält aber die Klasse der letzten Staffeln. Und ich liebe dieses Russische Geheimversteck mit dem Aufzug...
  61. maxleresistant
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    Best season yet.
    Epic, fun and the VFX are amazing. The characters keeps getting better and more interesting. Loved every minute.
    This could be an amazing finale, but thank god it's not over yet. A big thank you to the amazing cast, crew and Netflix for this show.
  62. roarfente
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Amazing! Breathtaking! It's the best season yet. Everything is perfect and colorful. You must to watch it!
  63. popperfection1
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    The best season yet. Epic, fun and the VFX are amazing. The characters keeps getting better and more interesting. Loved every minute. Thank you, Duffer Brothers... Everything was perfect.
  64. aswal321
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Amazing series. Able to watch in one sitting. It bring emotions from every single character. It expresses and shows development between relationships between Hop and Joyce, Mike and Ele, Literally everyone. The plot and how the two group come together and everything is connected shows the how the two paths crossed. Utter perfection.
  65. Anjin-San
    Jul 8, 2019
    9
    All critics I've read about this show are subjective and not based on facts, but on mere opinions. I believe this show deserves a 9 because it performs a very thrilling, intense experience. Some characters are particularly charismatic, some of them are a little dull, but the general picture is pretty darn good. I enjoyed from start to finish, no way to get distracted from the action. AAll critics I've read about this show are subjective and not based on facts, but on mere opinions. I believe this show deserves a 9 because it performs a very thrilling, intense experience. Some characters are particularly charismatic, some of them are a little dull, but the general picture is pretty darn good. I enjoyed from start to finish, no way to get distracted from the action. A natural evolution of the plot, characters and environment.… Expand
  66. Spidersam
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Perfect Best season Best acting Best goosebumps Best vfx best TV series But usual story… Expand
  67. A-La1
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Amazing! Loved the soundtrack! The growth and the development of the characters amid three converging storylines was outstanding! Funny, touching, and entertaining all at once!
  68. mrmonster
    Jul 4, 2019
    9
    Stranger Things season 3 is the best of them all. The Duffer Brothers have pretty much mastered everything that makes this show great. It works on every level, as a sci-fi horror story and a drama at the same time. In short, everything about this works.
  69. CrimsonFlush
    Jul 21, 2019
    3
    Predictable and laughable beyond belief. I realize it's sci-fi, but we are expected to believe the Russians came to town and built miles of underground tunnels underneath a mall? In a years time? The tons of equipment and heavy machinery didn't tip off, anyone? El's Mary Sue abilities means no matter how dangerous the situation the kids get into, she's going to save them a la deus exPredictable and laughable beyond belief. I realize it's sci-fi, but we are expected to believe the Russians came to town and built miles of underground tunnels underneath a mall? In a years time? The tons of equipment and heavy machinery didn't tip off, anyone? El's Mary Sue abilities means no matter how dangerous the situation the kids get into, she's going to save them a la deus ex machina, ad naseum. There's no suspense when main good characters are never at risk of dying. I have little doubt that Jim Hopper will make a miraculous comeback in season 4. Sprinkle in some 80s pop culture here and their and the shows premise has become pretty tiresome.… Expand
  70. MrFlankster
    Jul 19, 2019
    10
    Season 1 and 2 are good. Season 3 is GREAT. The writing is definitely better this season.
  71. Andremax
    Jul 16, 2019
    7
    Alright, Stranger Things 3 has the best season finale in all series, plots are still tasteful and easy to watch and characters that we love so makes us want to watch it even more. These cute kids now grown up and dares more difficult situations, what reflects on bigger quantities of blood and gore and much more sarcasm on series, lefting season even more dark. Ok about that, but theAlright, Stranger Things 3 has the best season finale in all series, plots are still tasteful and easy to watch and characters that we love so makes us want to watch it even more. These cute kids now grown up and dares more difficult situations, what reflects on bigger quantities of blood and gore and much more sarcasm on series, lefting season even more dark. Ok about that, but the biggest problem about ST3 is its predictable characters actions and fight scenes and a basic script that not surprises. In another words, you can enjoy with Duffer Bros. piece again, but don't expect nothing beyond you've already known.… Expand
  72. marcmyworks
    Jul 15, 2019
    9
    Season 3 is an amazing culmination of all the previous seasons as it incorporates ideas of 80s Sci-Fi films 'The Thing', 'Terminator' and 'The Blob'.
  73. FelicityFenwick
    Jul 12, 2019
    8
    A lot better than Season 2, and I love the addition of Hawke, but it's not exactly the return to Season 1 form that the critics had promised.
  74. LoletinAlexis
    Jul 16, 2019
    7
    Stranger Things: Season 3 is another success of the Duffer brothers, in which the chemistry between the characters is still excellent and, in general, a series very well spun.
    However, the repetitiveness and little innovation begins to affect a series that little by little begins to be a clone of each season with bigger bugs.
  75. ozofriendly
    Jul 8, 2019
    9
    Well done everyone involved! This was a big improvement on Season 2's somewhat awkward story.
    ST3 is more 8-Legged Freaks than Super-8, which to my mind is a very good thing. I think the Duffers struck the perfect tone, keeping the period-homage engaging and true to the corny, un-ironic narratives of 80's straight-to-VHS B-movies, but with deep characters developed to challenge the    Well done everyone involved! This was a big improvement on Season 2's somewhat awkward story.
    ST3 is more 8-Legged Freaks than Super-8, which to my mind is a very good thing. I think the Duffers struck the perfect tone, keeping the period-homage engaging and true to the corny, un-ironic narratives of 80's straight-to-VHS B-movies, but with deep characters developed to challenge the grubby, persistent tropes of the time - not unlike GLOW, in fact, which I also loved. I thought it was cleverly plotted, bringing everyone together for the most beautiful finale I've seen since GOTG2 :) Can't wait for season 4.    … Expand
  76. Scotta6
    Jul 12, 2019
    10
    Best season by far! So freaking good. It was amazing!!!!! You have to watch it. It was so hard not to binge watch this
  77. Thwomp
    Jul 8, 2019
    9
    This season has monsters straight out of a Resident Evil movie and it's GLORIOUS! Back to the season 1 roots of how it made horror and comedy work in tandem. Brilliant season. If you like horror with kid and adult humor (much like the new movie, IT) then you will love this as well.
  78. Timetoreview
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    Good job from the Duffer's brother and the cast! The visual, the acting and the plot was super entertaining! I want more from this franchise.
  79. klzb3
    Jul 10, 2019
    9
    This season gave me everything I wanted from Stranger Things. Fun, over the top, beautifully shot, full of the best tropes but done in a fresh, fun way. Loved it.
  80. Alger
    Jul 11, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Although the show progressed slowly throughout the first few episodes, when it picked up, it really put me at the edge of my seat with the action packed scenes like Hopper beating the pulp out of the mayor. The interactions between characters was also very entertaining, such as Joyce and Hopper with their subtle hints at feelings for each other or Mike and Eleven with their problematic relationship. This season of stranger things also managed to pull at my heartstrings with Hopper's death, and his note to Eleven. The separation between Will and Eleven with the rest also managed to make me teary eyed as well. Overall, this season of stranger things was spectacular and heart wrenching.… Expand
  81. MateusAdriel
    Jul 12, 2019
    8
    Uma das melhores temporadas de strange things sem falar que ST é uma das melhores séries no catálogo da Netflix
  82. Pedroiuy
    Jul 12, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A melhor série que a netflix produziu , essa temporada mostrou ser umas das mais emocionates das três temporadas , parabéns netflix pelo belo trabalho .… Expand
  83. Gabrielvieira
    Jul 15, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This season is a beautiful message about change. Interesting to bring this subject into a nostalgic series starring for several generations. I really enjoyed the maturing arc, especially Will (who was not prepared to grow up because he lost part of his childhood dealing with Inverted World things, about his sexuality, and implicitly) and Eleven (who knew more of his powers and learned to make his own decisions, becoming more independent of Hopper and Mike). This season we can understand the motivations of the Mind Eater as it adapts to our world. The monsters became very gore and the production was creative with them this year. They repeat the same way of building the story (three well-defined acts, different arcs investigating part of the mysteries and then everyone joining) and bet on what went right beforehand (Steve and Dustin, Erica, Billy and Mrs. Wheeler, etc.). But the totally new setting and the new themes with the maturing of the characters disguise it. And at least they did not repeat the end of Eleven solving everything and brought greater consequences. My favorite arches were the Scoops Troops, which have an incredible dynamics, and Nancy's, finally understood the character, and addressed a relevant issue until today only from the point of view of that time. The bow of Joyce and Hopper was the weakest for me, brought cool characters (Mr. Clarke, Murray, Alexey, The Terminator, etc.), but it had many holes and did not have a compelling motive. The production bought a mall closed in Atlanta and rebuilt in the 80's style, it was an incredible scenario, exaggerated in the merchandising, but they knew to explore the consequences in the life of the characters and in the environment, in the town of Hawkins, addressing an important question of that time. I had no problem with the plot of the Russians. If Americans were experimenting with trying to access another dimension, it makes sense for the USSR not to be far behind, it well represents that race between the two superpowers and brewing reference productions of the era when it was very common to vilify the Russians.… Expand
  84. BhavyaDave
    Jul 15, 2019
    10
    This is best season from Netflix I have seen so far. This show just plays with your emotions. It can make you laugh, anxious, frustrated and **** scared all at once. Another level direction and story building.
  85. TheQuietGamer
    Jul 14, 2019
    7
    Not a huge fan of the show's shift in tone. Gone is that dark, moody atmosphere inspired by the likes of John Carpenter and Stephen King. In its place are MCU levels of humor and a whole bunch of '80s sequel goofiness.

    The writing is what took the real hit this season though. The vast majority of the early episodes feel inconsequential and the two disparate threads invite the wrong kind    Not a huge fan of the show's shift in tone. Gone is that dark, moody atmosphere inspired by the likes of John Carpenter and Stephen King. In its place are MCU levels of humor and a whole bunch of '80s sequel goofiness.

    The writing is what took the real hit this season though. The vast majority of the early episodes feel inconsequential and the two disparate threads invite the wrong kind of mystery to the mix. Add in the butchering of several main, fan favorite characters and it's hard to not be disappointed with these 8 new episodes.

    Stranger Things is still enjoyable in this lesser form however. I laughed, got some feels there in the end, and the action is best this show has had thus far. The amount of nostalgia and references are still appealing even when it leans more into parody and 4th wall breaking territory than ever before. I want to see season 4 go back to its roots, but I can't deny that I still did have some fun with these characters yet again.    … Expand
  86. thisistheslam
    Sep 2, 2019
    8
    Stranger Things again thrives on its special something, that one intangible that makes a show a cut above average but you might be challenged to define what exactly that is. Season 3 delivers a nice bit of suspense, light horror elements, and good characters in a fun 80s package. I never felt like the season dragged or the direction was boring. I pursuing the idea of the Mind Flayer thatStranger Things again thrives on its special something, that one intangible that makes a show a cut above average but you might be challenged to define what exactly that is. Season 3 delivers a nice bit of suspense, light horror elements, and good characters in a fun 80s package. I never felt like the season dragged or the direction was boring. I pursuing the idea of the Mind Flayer that the show teased at the end of season 1 and at times in season 2 is a treat visually and for pacing. Eleven's journey to be a more powerful superhuman also lends a little extra fun to this sci-fi adventure. But it's the way it's all put together - the serious tone, the near-horror like visuals, the fun 80s setting, and the characters never feeling worthless that make this show so good. Season 3 continues the bar of excellence and while it may only have 1 more season I've never like the show Needs more seasons simply because things are usually tied up nice enough to let things be. Though make no mistake, I'm happy to have a couple more seasons if the quality remains this high.… Expand
  87. JulienJaden
    Aug 2, 2019
    4
    [This review contains no spoilers - it only mentions a few things that were not addressed in this season but arguably should have been.]

    Season 3 is the weakest season of Stranger Things by far (with the sole exception of any future seasons which are bound to be worse). Instead of continuing some of the themes and playing to the series' strength (irrational fear of Soviet agents, the    [This review contains no spoilers - it only mentions a few things that were not addressed in this season but arguably should have been.]

    Season 3 is the weakest season of Stranger Things by far (with the sole exception of any future seasons which are bound to be worse).

    Instead of continuing some of the themes and playing to the series' strength (irrational fear of Soviet agents, the mystery of the secret government research), as well as tying up loose ends from previous seasons (other "gifted children", the fate of "Papa"), they went for flashier content over actual substance, random characterless villains over fleshing out existing ones, and made strange decisions regarding the character development and behavior of most recurring characters.

    Arguably, making this season was already a mistake in itself instead of leaving Season 2 as the series' conclusion, which would have been fine in most regards. But the things mentioned above show major shortcomings of the script that were easy to avoid and would have drastically increased the quality of the season because they would have addressed themes and issues that were hinted at but left in awkward places during Season 2, therefore allowing the Duffer Brothers to definitively end the series in a convincing, satisfying way.

    As it stands, the post-credit tease (which is by far the biggest mistake of it all, because it renders both several storypoints and all efforts throughout the season completely moot - all for the sake of foreshadowing another season, making this the reason I'm lowering my score by two points more than I originally intended) suggests that this series will be milked shamelessly until its audience finally abandon it in disgust, and that just makes me sad.

    Make no mistake, it was entertaining to watch, but where Season 1 and 2 left me thrilled, my mind going over all the the mysteries they hinted at and flabbergasted at the brilliance of the whole package, this one left a sour aftertaste and the many instances of plain bad scriptwriting make it feel like somebody with only the vaguest idea of "the story so far" and only a fraction of the talent of the previous screenwriter/s took over and butchered this one.    … Expand
  88. bulger_paul
    Aug 1, 2019
    6
    Disclaimer, there is one mild spoiler in this review, which I very clearly warn I'm about to reveal before talking about it. I do't talk much about the actual plot and mystery in this season, but I do talk about a character reveal some might consider spoilery. Anyways,

    Stranger Things: Season 3 is not without a lot of very strong moments, but something about this season really failed to    Disclaimer, there is one mild spoiler in this review, which I very clearly warn I'm about to reveal before talking about it. I do't talk much about the actual plot and mystery in this season, but I do talk about a character reveal some might consider spoilery. Anyways,

    Stranger Things: Season 3 is not without a lot of very strong moments, but something about this season really failed to capture the "magic" in the first two seasons, and it's hard to put my finger on just what that missing element is. For starters, this season seems very stylistically different from the first two seasons. The first two seasons were willing to simply "sit" for extended periods of time, letting tension build, drenching every episode in mystery and atmosphere with an incrementally building dread. It took its sweet time developing characters and world building and revealing its secrets. Season 3, on the other hand, is moving at a much more frenetic pace. Its chock full of abrupt, jarring transitions, its mysteries lack a certain "strangeness" to them, its mysteries are too quickly unraveled, there isn't as much interplay between its characters, and it feels less centered around its characters than it did in the previous season, etc. That being said, though, there are some moments I absolutely adored, most of them revolve around Robin, who is by far my favorite addition this season has brought in. I adored Maya Hawke's chemistry with Joe Keery, I adored the way their relationship progressed throughout the series, and I absolutely adored their moment together in the bathroom during her (SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER) coming out moment, immediately after Steve professes feelings for her, and the minutes that follow is one of the most wonderful and fulfilling completely platonic moments I've ever witnessed between two characters of the opposite sex in any series ever. So, I'm not going to prematurely declare that Stranger Things has lost its way, but I am going to call season 3 a very slight misstep. I hope the writers are able to recapture the magic and mystery of the first two seasons by season 4.    … Expand
  89. frankrog29
    Aug 9, 2019
    5
    The Duffer Brothers have lost their touch. Stranger Things was never a great show, but it was at least entertaining. However, season 3 is a slog. I kept waiting for it to get good but it never did. The show seems to have no raison d'etre now. It used to be fun to watch, but now it just feels like a chore.
  90. Variag01
    Aug 22, 2019
    1
    Too much nonsense and stupidity. The show should've ended after it's second season
  91. kenzedd
    Sep 22, 2019
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was really disappointed by this season. I think the writing has had an overall drop in quality. (not to mention missing plot threads from season 2 like the demogorgon in the fridge or the other test subject) TLDR at bottom.

    Stuff like 4 teens and a child breaking into a super secret Russian base, walking through a main hub in sailor outfits completely unnoticed was beyond unbelievable. It was tooo campy and tropey. And so much of the writing has just become total cliché. Like literally just terrible lines of dialogue and overdone scenes.

    The show used to take 80s tropes and play them out in a more modern, innovative way. Now it just throws them at you like its a game of dodgeball. Gorey 80s zombie flicks, Russian terminator, aggressive product placement, 80s music scenes,typical "Hello Doctor" interrogation with the "you Bastards!" thrown in... And it's all shallow and without thoughtfulness.

    Character arcs are a mess. Like all of them except Steve and Robyn. They all start interesting, and then disappear for the action after a few episodes... Which would be fine except that all the action is punctuated by total ridiculousness. Any intensity that is built up is destroyed, like the Dusty and Suzie sing song, or the extended Robyn and Steve drugged up scenes in the middle of the most intense moments. If you're going to break up the action with something, could it please be meaningful dialogue? We get so little of it, and so many unfunny try-hard "memeable" scenes.

    Billy is the worst case of underdevelopment. Like they just used him for plot. Show us a few scenes of a stereotypical childhood trauma and then a moment of redemption and it's all okay? Am I meant to forget that he's abusive to his sister and probably a racist? Where'd that go? Max has no issues with him now? What wasted potential for development.

    Also, why even bother with the drama for Alexei? Even the characters didn't give him a second thought literally minutes later. I really think Mr. Paranoid wouldn't have just casually and obviously brought him out in public anyway tbh. Totally ridiculous.

    What did I like? Seeing all the young actors hit puberty, grow like a foot taller and have deeper voices, hahaha. I can't belive that we actually all do that! TLDR: All in all I think they went for style over substance for a show which really had both just last season. I hope they redeem themselves for the next season...    … Expand
  92. Borgoros
    Sep 30, 2019
    3
    Not as good as the first and second season for a lot of reasons already mentioned.
  93. abvilla
    Jul 17, 2019
    0
    me borraron mi comentario por mencionar al lobby del innombrable... buena serie, pero la arruinaron debido a algo por lo que se me censurará.
  94. MasterRiley
    Aug 27, 2019
    10
    Stranger Things: Season 3 is a fantastic continuation of the beloved series. This season feels tonally different from the first two, due to it taking place in the summer rather than the fall. This is great though, as it allows the show to have a lot more fun with the characters and presents some of the best comedy in the entire series. Its also very dark at times as well and presents someStranger Things: Season 3 is a fantastic continuation of the beloved series. This season feels tonally different from the first two, due to it taking place in the summer rather than the fall. This is great though, as it allows the show to have a lot more fun with the characters and presents some of the best comedy in the entire series. Its also very dark at times as well and presents some of the scariest scenes in the show so far. For most of the season, the characters are separated into different groups as they go on different journeys. The pairings of characters really allow for great comedy and drama as they interact with each other. There are a lot of standout characters this season that get really satisfying character development. If you enjoyed either of the previous seasons I can’t see why you wouldn’t like this one.… Expand
  95. Davrosdaleks1
    Aug 25, 2019
    9
    Although the last two seasons had done a great job encapsulating the eighties, this manages to refresh the concept. Now the show gets to do "summer" eighties, "pop" eighties. A lot of this take place at the mall, and there is also a county fair, which are both pretty good settings. To be honest, the show has never looked better.

    Don't want to spoil anything, buy some new interesting    Although the last two seasons had done a great job encapsulating the eighties, this manages to refresh the concept. Now the show gets to do "summer" eighties, "pop" eighties. A lot of this take place at the mall, and there is also a county fair, which are both pretty good settings. To be honest, the show has never looked better.

    Don't want to spoil anything, buy some new interesting elements are brought to the table. This is interestingly both the funniest and the darkest season. The two tones are balanced surprisingly well. Be forewarned that the horror aspect gets downright icky this time around. Season 3 is a lot faster paced than the previous season.

    The cast as usual is excellent. Joyce (Demi Moore), now that she doesn't have the immediate to worry about her son, and Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), now that she gets to interact more with the world, both get explored. Don't worry, we also get more of the great teamup of Steve (Joe Keery) and Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) without it being overdone, either. Robin (Maya Hawke), Steve's sarcastic new co-worker at an ice cream shop, is an excellent addition to the cast. There also a couple of other new cast members I really liked that I won't spoil.

    Overall, I thought this was better than season two and maybe on the same level as season one, it's been a while.    … Expand
  96. NobodyYouKnow
    Jul 21, 2019
    8
    The series is, in essence, an ode to Spielberg. It has a refreshing lack of cynicism which is almost completely absent from contemporary television. Like most of Spielberg's movies, it has a very simple message, but it wants to take you on a wondrous rollercoaster ride while telling it. And as long as you don't look for something deeper, Stranger Things almost completely succeeds. All it'sThe series is, in essence, an ode to Spielberg. It has a refreshing lack of cynicism which is almost completely absent from contemporary television. Like most of Spielberg's movies, it has a very simple message, but it wants to take you on a wondrous rollercoaster ride while telling it. And as long as you don't look for something deeper, Stranger Things almost completely succeeds. All it's really saying is relationships matter, and we should love and support those who matter to us.

    The few minor missteps are easily forgivable. Some moments don't ring true. One character in particular really missed the mark for me: Erica. She's perpetually sassy and unbelievably brave like a kid from a poorly written sitcom. And since she's not actually in a sitcom, they figured they could have her swear... way too much for a 10-year-old math whiz.

    Season 3 packs a surprisingly emotional punch in its final episode, again reminding me of Spielberg. The series is probably one of the most universally appealing I've ever seen, so if you haven't seen it yet (where have you been?!), do yourself a favor and binge.    … Expand
  97. whoischarlotte
    Jun 1, 2020
    9
    This is really by far the best season for me, the first was fantastic, the second was a letdown so the third season really exceeded expectations
  98. manningn15
    Jun 3, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Even though this season wasn't as good as season two I did like it better than season one and is another A+ season and is still my 2nd favorite Netflix original show and one of my favorite shows of all time. The acting was phenomenal again this season especially from Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, Dacre Montgomery, Joe Keery, Maya Hawke, Priah Ferguson, Natalia Dyer, Sadie Sink, Brett Gelman, Gaten Matarazzo, Finn Wolfhard, Alec Utgoff, Caleb McLaughlin, Charlie Heaton, Cara Buono, Jake Busey, Peggy Miley, Cary Elwes, Noah Schnapp, Michael Park and Francesca Reale. The visual effects were exceptional, creepy, scary, disgusting, disturbing, and awesome especially the Mind Flayer, the White Demogorgan, and the Hospital Monster. The writing and story were outstanding, throughout this season I laughed or I cried and it was either heartwarming or heartbreaking. The humor this season was really funny especially when Steve and Robin were loopy from the drugs. I still love the homage to 80's and 80's pop culture. The makeup and hairstyling was remarkable especially on Natalia Dyer, Cara Buono, Priah Ferguson, Dacre Montgomery, Joe Keery, Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, Gaten Matarazzo, Francesca Reale, Maya Hawke, Charlie Heaton, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Sadie Sink, and David Harbour. The costumes were stupendous especially the ones wore by Millie Bobby Brown, Dacre Montgomery, David Harbour, Priah Ferguson, Natalia Dyer, Joe Keery, Maya Hawke, Brett Gelman, Sadie Sink, Caleb McLaughlin, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo, Charlie Heaton, Cara Buono, Winona Ryder, and Peggy Miley. The sets were excellent especially the Starcourt Mall and the Secret Russian Base. The characterization was superb especially with Bill, Robin, Joyce, Steve, Karen, Erica, Eleven/Jane, Mike, Jim, and Nancy. Also the soundtrack and music was terrific especially the song that Dustin and Suzie sang together.… Expand
  99. Felindie
    Aug 5, 2019
    8
    Despite some weak moments in the plot, the whole season was a very entertained one.
  100. GrantD243
    Jul 27, 2019
    9
    Season three's story is more tight and simple than the previous two, but it's also much more original than season two and the best executed out of the three. The acting, writing, and horror elements are all a step up. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
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Awards & Rankings

75
#75 Best TV Season of 2019
4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2019
97
#97 Most Shared TV Season of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. The Independent
    Reviewed by: Al Horner
    Jan 3, 2020
    80
    Stranger Things 3 practices what it preaches: instead of the pure nostalgia of previous seasons, the Duffer brothers break brilliant, terrifying new ground here.
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  2. The Telegraph
    Reviewed by: Ed Power
    Jan 3, 2020
    60
    Over-familiarity is the biggest issue in an eight-part series that refuses to stray from the Goonies-meets-Stephen King formula. ... Stranger Things is on more solid territory addressing the growing pains its teenage protagonists.
    Read full review
  3. The Guardian
    Reviewed by: Lucy Mangan
    Dec 4, 2019
    80
    It’s a real and joyful return to form for the show that has been taken fiercely to the hearts of people who weren’t there the first time round and, perhaps even more fiercely, by those who were. The brothers continue to play with, reference and occasionally lift all the things that made the Johns, Carpenter and Hughes, and the Steph(/v)ens, King and Spielberg, enduringly great and mash them into something equally fun, racy and frightening as hell for us all on the small screen. It’s almost like being young again.
    Read full review
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