'Stranger Things' documentary maker calls Conformity Gate theory 'bizarre'
What's the story
The final season of Netflix's hit series Stranger Things, which aired earlier this month, has left fans wanting more. A theory called Conformity Gate suggested that an additional episode was in the works. However, despite these speculations, no such episode was produced. To quench fans' thirst for more content from the show, a behind-the-scenes documentary titled One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 was released.
Director's perspective
Documentary aims to provide closure and insights
Martina Radwan, the director of the documentary, told BBC Newsbeat that she found the Conformity Gate theory "a little bizarre." She said, "Why would they withhold that?" but understood it could be hard for fans to say goodbye after a decade-long journey. The two-hour documentary aims to provide closure and insights into the writers' room and production process of Stranger Things 5.
Production challenges
'You can't write everything ahead of time'
The documentary reveals that Ross Duffer and Matt Duffer, makers of the series, were under immense pressure while wrapping up the show. This stress is evident when they are still working on the final episode's script during filming. Radwan explained that on a project this big, "you can't write everything ahead of time." She added it's normal practice in TV and film to write while shooting.
Insightful revelations
Documentary showcases writers' room debates and character development
The documentary also captures writers debating whether creatures should appear in the final battle against Vecna and the Mind Flayer. It also reveals how the main cast has grown over the years as characters and actors. Radwan said, "It was important to really show the longevity and also how everybody developed individually, but also with each other as a group."
Production insights
'Stranger Things' production scale and pressure revealed
The documentary underscores the massive scale of Stranger Things. Radwan added, "I think having access to the writer's room is a real gift and a privilege that the brothers gave us." "I mean, this is a massive ensemble cast and to cover 19 character developments, it's quite a feat and an accomplishment." The documentary is available on Netflix.