STRANGER THINGS: Season 3
The strange definitely get stranger — for adults only.
Should You Watch It?
Season 3 remains a highly engaging science-fiction season. It is well-paced, well-acted, and supported by a score that fits the on-screen events seamlessly. Its 1980s props and costumes also add authenticity.
The content is not suitable for children or young teens. Most episodes contain strong language used by teenagers and children, along with violence, alcohol, stealing, and lying. There are also occult worldview issues, a false-religion reference, and one homosexual reference involving a teenage girl’s crush on another girl.
Adults may find worthwhile themes in the season’s strong value on helping others, its pro-capitalism worldview, and occasional Christian references. The practical answer: adults may watch, but families should keep children and young teens away.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESIn 1985, a group of teenagers and an adult from Indiana try to enjoy the summer while navigating new jobs, friendships, and romantic relationships.
But something is wrong. The interdimensional creature called the Mind Flayer may still be at large, while the Soviets conduct secret experiments beneath a shopping mall. Familiar faces and new characters must work together to protect the people they love.
Is It Any Good?
Four stars means this season is a strong piece of entertainment. It keeps the audience engaged through well-paced action, strong acting, and a score that coincides seamlessly with what happens on screen.
Viewers who appreciate the 1980s will also notice the authenticity of the props and costuming. The source review does not identify significant craft weaknesses.
The Worldview
Season 3 presents a strongly pro-capitalism worldview and places real value on helping others. It also includes some subtle Christian references. The season’s characters face forces that can be read as connected to the true evil forces Christians believe are at war on Earth.
The series also raises worldview concerns. It includes occult elements and a mention of a character connected to a false religion. Those elements do not erase the season’s positive themes, but they require discernment from adult viewers.
The season’s central conflict involves people protecting one another against evil. Scripture likewise reminds us that the deepest battle is spiritual: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness” (Ephesians 6:12).
The Content Guide
The specifics — spoilers included by nature — so you can judge for your own family.
Content Summary
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
The season places a strong value on helping others. What does loving your neighbor look like when helping becomes costly?
Mark 12:31 · Philippians 2:3–4The characters face forces that point toward spiritual evil. How should Christians think about spiritual conflict without becoming fascinated by occult ideas?
Ephesians 6:10–18 · 1 Thessalonians 5:21–22The season presents a pro-capitalism worldview. How can work, business, and material success be used to serve others rather than ourselves?
Colossians 3:23–24 · 1 Timothy 6:17–19Christian references appear alongside a false-religion reference. How can you recognize truth while treating people with patience and respect?
Acts 17:22–31 · 1 Peter 3:15The Final Word
Season 3 is polished, engaging science fiction with strong acting, authentic 1980s details, and positive themes about helping others. Its heavy content and occult elements make it unsuitable for children and young teens. For discerning adults, our verdict is WORTH WATCHING — ADULTS ONLY. For other family options, see.
