Two Stranger Things season 4 episode titles have been revealed. Upon its premiere in 2016, Stranger Things became a near-instant hit with audiences. The 80s-set Netflix series spent its first season focusing on the disappearance of young Will Byers (Noah Schnapp), the emergence of an enigmatic and extremely powerful young girl named Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), and both of their connections to a dangerous realm known as the Upside Down. Since then, Stranger Things has returned for two additional seasons, with a fourth on the way.
Stranger Things season 3 premiered on Netflix in July 2019, and ever since then, fans have eagerly awaited the arrival of season 4. However, much like several ongoing productions in 2020, it has been delayed. Production on the season began earlier this year, but was quickly shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic. For months, work remained on hold, but fans were thrilled to hear Stranger Things season 4 finally began filming this month. At this time, most plot details are still being kept under wraps, but perhaps fans can glean some clues from this newly-revealed information.
The Stranger Things writers' room has their own social media account, where teases and behind the scenes looks are often shared. Last year, the account revealed the season 4 premiere is titled "Chapter One: The Hellfire Club," and now fans have the names of the next two episodes: "Tick Tock Mr. Clock" and "You Snooze You Lose." Presumably, they're also considered Chapters 2 and 3.
The first of the new titles, "Tick Tock Mr. Clock," certainly feels rather ominous, as though something momentous is approaching. The second is less so, instead going for a lighter feel. Of course, fans of Stranger Things know that even the most lighthearted of moments can turn dark in an instant, so everyone might be better off bracing for the worst. Though season 3 seemed to put an end to the Upside Down, set photos tell a very different story. Additionally, not every character will begin season 4 in a good place: Early Stranger Things season 4 teasers confirmed Jim Hopper (David Harbour) is currently being held captive in a Russian prison.
Fans are largely expecting Stranger Things season 4 to focus on Hopper's rescue, though it might take the others some time to realize he's actually alive and in danger. The previous season concluded with Will, Eleven, and Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) leaving their home of Hawkins behind, so the first order of business in season 4 is to bring them back. Perhaps the ticking and tocking is in reference to the countdown to them returning to Hawkins. All will be revealed when Stranger Things finally returns.