9 Cleverly Hidden Easter Eggs You Missed in 'Stranger Things' Season 5 Volume 1

The fifth and final season of Stranger Things has finally arrived, and from the very first shot, it's clear that the Duffer Brothers have prepared a feast of nostalgia for fans.

This final season is not only an epic battle for Hawkins but also a sweeping, touching ode to 80s pop culture and the show's history.

1. 'Good Morning, Vietnam' and 'Pretty in Pink' on the Radio

Robin starts her morning show by referencing the cult comedy Good Morning, Vietnam, starring Robin Williams.

Her DJ name, Rockin' Robin, contains multiple layers of meaning: a tribute to the actor, a reference to the Bobby Day hit, and her own name.

For Vickie, Robin plays "Pretty in Pink" by the Psychedelic Furs and this choice is no accident. Back in Season 4, Vickie's style was based on Molly Ringwald's character in John Hughes's film, particularly Pretty in Pink, which inspired the song's title.

2. Ms. Harris Was a Teacher Not Only to Derek and Holly, but Also to the Duffer Brothers

Hope Hynes Love, the Duffer brothers' own high school teacher, played Ms. Harris, the kind of teacher every student could only dream of having.

Through this touching casting choice, the show's creators expressed their gratitude for her support and wisdom during their difficult journey of growing up.

3. Robin's Outfit Is an Homage to Wynona Ryder's Old Look

Robin's outfit in the hangar scene in Episodes 3 and 4 pays homage to the iconic look of a young Winona Ryder: a black leather jacket over a printed T-shirt.

4. Eleven's Tracksuit Is a Nod to 'The Goonies'

One of the most discussed stylistic choices was Eleven's workout outfit. Many viewers saw it as a nod to Superman's classic look.

However, the reference is much more subtle. A similar outfit, complete with bandana, was worn by Josh Brolin in the cult classic adventure movie The Goonies – a film that initially served as a key inspiration for the series.

As for the workout itself, its beginning might recall the self-defense theme familiar to viewers from the Rocky films. However, the Duffer brothers ultimately drew inspiration from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Rey's preparation for the final battle.

5. "The Turnbow Trap" Episode Hints at 'Home Alone'

The third episode of Season 5, "The Turnbow Trap," directed by Frank Darabont, sparked a wave of nostalgia among viewers worldwide.

In the episode, the Hawkins boys decide to bait the Demogorgon by transforming the mansion of the local rich into a trap house, reminiscent of Kevin McCallister's home in Home Alone.

Turnbow's son, the new fan favorite, Derek, also resembles Kevin's mischievous brother, Buzz.

6. Austin Millbarge Is a Reference to the Movie 'Spies Like Us'

Murray Bauman, a newly minted smuggler passing through military lines in Hawkins, introduces himself as Austin Millbarge. This alias isn't random, but rather a reference to the Cold War comedy Spies Like Us.

In the movie, the eponymous character, played by Dan Aykroyd, is sent to Pakistan and Tajikistan to create a distraction while the real agent works.

This role resonates perfectly with Murray's situation, as he too is forced to disguise himself and maintain a facade while covering more important operations.

7. 'Stranger Things' and 'Harry Potter' Are More Similar Than It Seems

Spanning nearly a decade, Stranger Things created a unique, nostalgic connection with viewers. It's no coincidence that the Duffer Brothers scheduled the series finale for Christmas, challenging Harry Potter's traditional festive screen presence.

This parallel proved prophetic; fans began searching – and finding – references to the wizarding saga, even where they might not have been intended.

After spending time in the Upside Down, Will touches his neck, just as Harry touched his scar.

Holly, nearly dragged away by a Demogorgon in the first season, increasingly resembles Ginny. Both share a secret "artifact" under their beds and an invisible friend: in Holly's case it is Mr. Whatsit, a polite ghost from the mid-20th century.

Will and Vecna's confrontation on the battlefield mirrors the duel between Potter and Voldemort in Deathly Hallows almost frame-by-frame, hinting at a similar final conflict.

Steve's car, stuck in the wall of the Upside Down, evokes associations with the Weasleys' flying Ford, which crashed into the Weeping Willow and fought in the Forbidden Forest.

8. You Can Actually Call the Number from The Missing Person's Report

If you call the number listed on the missing person's report from school, 765-303-2020, you will hear a recording from the Hawkins Police Department.

9. Holly's Kidnapping Is a Reference to 'Poltergeist'

Attentive viewers immediately noticed that the scene of Holly's abduction by the Demogorgon replicates the iconic moment from Poltergeist almost frame-by-frame: the spirit drags the girl away while she clings to the bed.

The appearance of the monster from the Upside Down also contains cinematic references: its movement across the ceiling directly references Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street and the ghost from Peter Jackson's horror film The Frighteners.