You know whats Not on Roids, the Duffer Brothers’ explanation for why that excruciatingly long Will Byers coming-out scene in Stranger Things needed to exist. Seriously, folks, they doubled down! After facing a tidal wave of criticism – some citing “wokeness,” others just pointing out that Noah Schnapp looked like he was reciting tax code – the creators decided to…explain it more?
Apparently, according to Ross Duffer, Will’s prolonged declaration of his sexuality wasnt just about representation; it was vital for defeating Vecna. You see, Vecna represents all the dark thoughts and evil of society, and our heroes must “embrace themselves” to vanquish him. Matt Duffer piled on, declaring that coming out was Will’s final step and hes essentially the key to Vecnas downfall. Its a fck you to Vecna!
Let that sink in. A scene widely considered clunky, awkwardly performed, and including characters Will barely knows, was supposedly crucial for saving Hawkins from interdimensional horror. The Duffers are earnestly suggesting that awkward teenage exposition is some kind of cosmic weapon?
Look, the intentions were probably noble – exploring themes of acceptance and bravery—but good intentions don’t erase bad execution. It doesnt change the fact that it dragged on forever! And frankly, blaming Vecna for a poorly-written scene feels like an insult to both Vecna and anyone who ever suffered through it.
