Netflix unveiled the opening sequence of Stranger Things Season 5 on Thursday, giving fans a chilling look at Will Byers’ original disappearance. The first five minutes, released during Stranger Things Day, revisit November 12, 1983, just six days after Will went missing. In the scene, Will (Noah Schnapp) is seen trembling in the Upside Down, singing The Clash’s “Should I Stay or Should I Go” before being attacked by a Demogorgon and dragged to Vecna. The moment sets the tone for the final season, which promises to answer long-standing questions from Season 1.
Return to Hawkins and the Upside Down
The premiere episode, titled “The Crawl,” opens in the eerie forest of the Upside Down. Will Byers attempts to escape a Demogorgon before being captured and confronted by Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower). Vecna delivers a cryptic message: “You and I, we will do such beautiful things together, William.” A tentacle then attaches to Will’s face, injecting a mysterious substance into his body.
This flashback sequence marks a narrative reset, bringing the story full circle to its original mystery. The final season will consist of eight episodes, with the first four dropping on November 26 at 5 p.m. PT, followed by three on December 25 and the finale on December 31.
Quotes and Reactions From Creators
Series creators Matt and Ross Duffer spoke to Entertainment Weekly about the decision to begin the final season with Will’s story. “So much of the season was built around the idea of coming full circle,” said Matt. “We answer the two biggest questions from Season 1: What is the Upside Down, truly? And why was Will taken?”
Ross added, “You’ll start to learn more about what happened and what the connection is to all of this and Vecna.” The Duffers emphasized that Will’s character will be central to both the emotional and plot-driven arcs of the final season.
Fan Expectations and Narrative Stakes
The release of the first five minutes has reignited fan excitement, especially around Will Byers’ role in the series. After being sidelined in recent seasons, Will’s return to prominence signals a deeper exploration of the Upside Down and its origins. The scene also reinforces Vecna’s threat level, setting high stakes for the final episodes.
With the show’s conclusion approaching, viewers are anticipating answers to unresolved mysteries and a satisfying resolution to the Hawkins saga.
What’s Next: Episode Schedule and Finale Date
Netflix confirmed the release schedule:
- Episodes 1–4: November 26
- Episodes 5–7: December 25
- Finale (Episode 8): December 31
The cast, including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, and David Harbour, will return alongside Schnapp and Bower. Promotional events and behind-the-scenes features are expected throughout December.
