The episode concludes with a "One Month Later" epilogue set during Christmas. While Will appears to have returned to normal life, he secretly coughs up a slug-like creature and experiences a brief vision of the Upside Down, indicating he is still connected to the dimension.
: The final battle sequence utilized heavy strobe lighting effects. While some viewers found it stylistically "cool," others reported it was difficult to watch or caused physical discomfort. Legacy and Aftermath Stranger Things - Season 1Eps8
: While hiding at Hawkins Middle School, Eleven and the boys are cornered by Brenner’s agents and the Demogorgon. In a climactic sacrifice, Eleven uses the last of her strength to disintegrate the monster, vanishing along with it. Production & Trivia The episode concludes with a "One Month Later"