The stakes have never been higher in Hawkins as the penultimate chapter of the Stranger Things saga has finally arrived. In Volume 2, which covers episodes five through seven, the Duffers have masterfully shifted the focus toward a more psychological and cosmic brand of horror. The central mystery of the kidnapped children has evolved into a race against time, as the group realizes that the Upside Down is merely a “bridge” to a far more dangerous realm known as the Abyss.
Max Mayfield continues to be the emotional anchor of the series, and Sadie Sink’s performance remains a standout. In Volume 2, we see Max navigating the “mind prison” of the Abyss, acting as a protector and guide for the younger children. Her scenes are some of the most visually and emotionally arresting in the series, particularly as she finds a sanctuary in Henry Creel’s past to keep herself and Holly safe. Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven also shows immense growth, displaying a tactical maturity as she teams up with Kali to find a way to dismantle Vecna’s lair. El is no longer just the “weapon” of the group; she is the general leading them into the final battle.
But the absolute revelation of Volume 2 is Nell Fisher as Holly Wheeler. I have spent a lot of time on Trevor Decker News discussing why Fisher was the perfect choice for an expanded Holly, and these episodes prove it. Fisher brings a “quiet confidence” to Holly that is vital for her survival in the Abyss. Her portrayal of the youngest Wheeler as a brave, self-reliant hero is fantastic. Watching her yank a tentacle from her face and navigate Vecna’s desert-like homeworld is a masterclass in child acting. Fisher holds her own alongside the series veterans, ensuring that Holly isn’t just a victim to be rescued, but a hero in her own right.
The narrative twists in this volume are mind-bending, from the revelation that the Upside Down is an unstable wormhole to Will’s shocking discovery that he was the “builder” manipulated by the hive mind for years. The tension between Dustin and Steve adds a raw, human element to the chaos, culminating in a “you die, I die” pact that has fans on the edge of their seats. As we move toward the series finale on New Year’s Eve, the performances by Fisher, Sink, and Brown have set a gold standard for what this show can achieve. Hawkins is on the brink of merging with the Abyss, and these three powerhouses are the only thing standing in the way.