When I think of binging, much like you, I used to think of overindulging in pizza, ice cream or chocolate cake (my personal favorite). However, when I binge NOW, it’s to take a Big Bite out of new TV shows on NETFLIX like STRANGER THINGS 1 & 2. And though it may be a little less fattening to binge on TV than calories, this overindulging can also take a Big Bite out of your TIME, which doesn’t seem to matter much when you’re enveloped in delicious entertainment.
There is almost nothing quite as satisfying as a romp through the 80’s horror shows with six adorable, charismatic and precocious children as those you’ll find as the hero’s in NETFLIX returning hit show. The homage paid to Stephen King’s FIRESTARTER, Steven Spielberg’s ET and even, I think, a nod to the frightening monster in ALIEN, there is nothing Strange about Stranger Things attracting a huge fan club, of which I am proudly one.
This season we see El’s growth as she becomes a fiery, curious, indominable young lady. She is, as she’s always been, a delight to watch with the acting prowess of an older and seasoned actress. Her telekinetic powers stronger than ever. We also see much more of Will, who’s own capabilities add more drama and excitement to the show. He’s the focal point for the “monster”, and his Mom, aptly and adeptly played by Winonna Rider, although not as neurotic as in the first season, is still the doting Mom and protector for young Will. Our Sheriff, the anti-hero hero, is brilliant as a struggling foster Dad to Eleven, and we can sympathize with his frustration at attempting to contain and control a teenage girl. The rest of the group bring their own special elements to the show, and there is more character development for each member of our now infamous group of champions.
The story line gets off the ground a little slower this season as new players are introduced, however, by season five, I can guarantee your binge will be out of control, you’ll not be able to go to the kitchen for a snack to nibble on as it will now simply be impossible to stop watching! It was 3:00 am when I finally finished Season Two…Strange, it didn’t feel like a five-hour binge.
As El attempts to locate her Mom, Will tries to fight the “Monster” from overtaking him, Sheriff Jim searches for the meaning behind the dying pumpkins, Jonathan and Nancy find each other again, Joyce finds love, the boys find a new red-headed club member, the Shadow Grows and the plot thickens.
Funny that I’d recommended it to many family members who pooh-pooed me as a “scary show” freak and are now humbled and hosting STRANGER THINGS Binge Parties at home! Yes, vindication is mine.
If you’ve not had the opportunity to enjoy the soapy, sudsy, cliff-hanging STRANGER THINGS 1 & 2, do yourself a favor: get a blanket, your favorite snuggle buddy, and take a big Binge into STRANGER THINGS 2! That’s not Strange at all!