What is Will and Mike Stranger Things Kiss?
The Will and Mike Stranger Things kiss is a romantic moment that occurs between two main characters in the Netflix original series, Stranger Things. The scene takes place during season 2 of the series when Will Byers is possessed by an evil entity known as the Mind Flayer.
This significant moment portrays acceptance and love for one another amidst various exceptional things happening around them. Fans across social media were thrilled to finally see their dynamic relationship recognized on screen with such a heartwarming scene.
How Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss Came to Be
Warning: Spoilers for Stranger Things season 3 ahead!
Fans of the hit Netflix sci-fi series, Stranger Things, were in for a surprise when two beloved characters shared an unexpected kiss. Will Byers (played by Noah Schnapp) and Mike Wheeler (played by Finn Wolfhard) had been best friends since the show’s inception, but their relationship took on a new level of complexity during season three.
Initially, the romantic focus was on Mike and Eleven’s (Millie Bobby Brown) budding young love. But as the season progressed, we saw Will struggling to find his place among his friend group as they became more focused on their relationships with each other. This culminated in a scene where Will confronts Mike about neglecting him since he started dating Eleven.
At this point in the story, it seemed like Will may have some sort of resentment towards his friend for prioritizing his girlfriend over their friendship. However, things took a surprising turn when Mike finally admitted what was really bothering him: not spending enough quality time playing Dungeons & Dragons together anymore. It was then that he leaned forward to repair and cement their friendship – not romantically – with a forehead-to-forehead touch.
But before they could fully break free from one another’s gaze …they kissed! The writers definitely played around with expectations here; viewers who’ve longed for queer representation within major television shows anticipated this moment following hints at questioning sexuality throughout previous seasons. While it wasn’t presented as such overtly “queer” behaviour – especially given both of these characters are just kids in middle school –– audiences can interpret it however they see fit and pull away different dimensions pertaining stories lines or character depth depending on which perspective you come from while watching beautiful moments unfold between two individuals.
So how did this kiss actually come about? Actor Noah Schnapp revealed during interviews that he felt strongly that there should be no romantic elements between Will and any character in the show, saying that this was not something he wanted for his character. However, writers of the series had other ideas.
During an interview with Hollywood Reporter, Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer explained that they wanted to subvert expectations and challenge traditional notions of friendships between boys on television. The duo cited films such as Stand By Me and The Goonies – movies they grew up watching –– where strong male bonds were often displayed but rarely explored beyond platonic levels embraced by viewership culture at large.
Therefore Mike and Will’s kiss could be seen as revolutionary in its deconstruction of heteronormativity tropes or simply a twist on standard bonding activities. It doesn’t necessarily make them homosexual characters — just challenging long-held notions societally ingrained towards emotional display between men which can sometimes also impede authentic relationships among daily diverse communications conducted within personal life spheres i.e., schools, households etc..
The scene has been met with mixed reactions from fans; some think it was unnecessary while others praised the writers for their bold choice in depicting teenage relationships in all their complexities. Either way, there is no denying that this moment will go down as one of the most memorable scenes in Stranger Things history.
In conclusion : Whatever you believe about Will & Mike’s friendship/kiss dynamic—as fans we cannot deny how monumental moments like these lift up fiction stories showcasing relationship elements outside social constriction paradigms embedded today (& conversely might help re-imagine). Because ultimately our world operates more vast than binary “reality “…& broader distinctions prevails within us humans- whether portrayed through artistic expressions or experienced directly offscreen when daring to form meaningful connections irrespective of habitual confines set externally – that stretch imaginations further forward into less polarized narratives hopefully allowing mutual understanding (and love) prevail above all else!
A Step-by-Step Breakdown of Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss
If you haven’t watched Stranger Things, then there’s a good chance that you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years. This cult classic has taken the world by storm and catapulted its cast to stardom.
One of the most talked-about moments in the series was undoubtedly when Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) and Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard) shared a kiss during season two. It was an unexpected moment that sparked both controversy and excitement amongst fans of the show.
So let’s dive into this iconic smooch, step-by-step:
Step One: Setting the Scene
Mike had just rescued Will from being trapped in The Upside Down for almost a week prior. When he finally found his way back home, he couldn’t wait to be reunited with his best friend. After some much-needed catching up over breakfast at their local diner, they hop on their bicycles and head out to school together.
Step Two: A Heart-to-Heart Conversation
As they cycle towards school, Mike stops abruptly causing Will to ask what’s wrong. That’s when Mike confesses about feeling guilty for not telling El (Millie Bobby Brown), who is also known as Eleven – another important character on the show – how much she means to him earlier.
Step Three: Cue Awkward Silence
After pouring out their emotions so honestly, there’s clearly tension between them which brews into silence as they continue cycling down Sunnyvale Road until…Will grabs hold of Mike’s hand!
Step Four: The Kiss
Suddenly overcome with emotion himself after seeing his confidante share his feelings unreservedly; Will decides it’s time for action while riding right next to each other on bikes without helmets! He launches forward balancing delicately but determinedly before pressing his lips gently yet tenderly against those belonging only unto dear friend Mike! …And like any passionate lip lock involving two utterly surprised individuals, it has a reality-altering effect on how the storyline continues.
Step Five: The Aftermath
As they part ways, Will and Mike acknowledge what just happened between them. They both seem both genuinely surprised by the turn of events but there’s also an air of understanding as if they’ve finally realized something that was right in front of them all along.
In conclusion, while this moment might have come out of left field for some fans, others saw it coming from a mile away. Regardless, Will and Mike’s kiss is another example of Stranger Things’ ability to shock its audience with unexpected plot twists that illuminate new things about even their most beloved characters – proving once again why this science-fiction horror show earns such adoration year after year!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss
If you’re a fan of the hit Netflix show Stranger Things, then you know that Season 3 left fans cheering and swooning over one particular moment – the kiss between Will Byers and Mike Wheeler. It was a moment that some had been eagerly anticipating, while others were caught off guard. Regardless of your reaction, there’s no denying that this pivotal scene sparked plenty of questions among viewers. To help clear up any confusion or curiosity surrounding this landmark event, we’ve put together an FAQ to help answer everything you need to know about Will and Mike’s Stranger Things kiss.
Q: Wasn’t Eleven supposed to be with Mike?
A: Yes, it’s true that Eleven (played by Millie Bobby Brown) has been romantically linked with Mike (Finn Wolfhard) since Season 1. But let’s not forget that these characters are only in middle school! Their relationship dynamics have always been awkward and young love is fickle. Plus, their storyline took a significant turn when Eleven moved away at the end of Season 2.
Q: So why did Will kiss Mike?
A: In Episode 8 of Stranger Things season three ‘The Battle Of Starcourt’, following a long night fighting off Mind Flayer possessed people within Hawkins shopping centre , Joyce Byers decides she wants out from Hawkins due to too much happening as well as losing her boyfriend Bob Newby last year whilst trying to fix things for everyone she loves including Chief Hopper whom disappears during the aftermath battle against Russians- prompting her decision.This means her sons Lucas Sinclair,Mike Wheeler & Dustin Henderson; along with Max Mayfield,Eleven- both girls being their crushes- Nancy WheelerSteve Harrington all hang out before potential separation due each summer approaching soon,furthermore bad things occurring in town .At first wanting try play Dungeons Dragons but decide make fireworks instead (even though reminded illegal). Whilst working on his sister fort castle he constructed with Dustin’s help,Will suddenly gets emotional nostalgia struck causing chaos by leaving out- thinking about how everyone else growing up and him not understanding why he hasn’t grown since Year 1 (when disappeared into the UD) meanwhile other growing getting girlfriends opportunities – it being same feeling during ‘Castle Byers’ in first episode of series .Same time Mike overcome with emotions wanting talk to Eleven but struggled as her moving away going still ongoing. Will runs from fort crying towards Castle Byers , Mike following after and apologizing for fighting hours ago. Suddenly Will confesses feelings his mind unsettling could have been due Mind Flayer control before outing aforementioned statement that “it doesn’t matter if its girls or guys” then proclaiming love for friend.Mike hugs him cold evening breeze blows amidst fireworks.
It seems likely that this kiss was simply a result of pent-up emotions between the two boys who have been best friends since childhood, something we’ve seen demonstrated throughout all three seasons of Stranger Things. Given the fact that they are personally grappling with their own issues surrounding change as people around them grow more mature & start relationships whilst Will is staying innocent being different than others morally wise despite struggling creating friction amongst group occasionally,it’s understandable that these characters would seek solace in each other, even if only momentarily.
Q: Is this some kind of statement on sexual orientation?
A: The showrunners behind Stranger Things have yet to formally comment on whether or not this kiss represents an exploration or departure from heterosexuality norms typical media.Whether one chooses to interpret it any sort way is largely based upon personal interpretation audience member has.A significant part LGBTQ+ community embraced the moment as symbolic representation authenticity some hold back tried hide themselves within traditional gender expectations society places upon individuals.Similar reactions came Dead To Me after Judy Hale realized she had romantic feelings agender nonbinary person Michelle Gomez played called Isabel Morales.Portrayal providing representations hope expanding diversity;don’t think the kiss coming either way nobody should be questioning sexuality children,they are still struggling comprehend changes occurring within themselves and those around them.Essentially their judgement shouldn’t come into play regarding this topic.
Q: Will there be more instances?
A: As far as speculation for future seasons go, it’s hard to say exactly where the Stranger Things storyline will lead us next. However given all that has been shown about themes friendship loyalty,growing up & change throughout past couple of years its safe to presume potential roles same dynamics could occur in some form or another.What is most certain though that whatever Netflix creators deliver audiences avidly awaiting cracking show’s secrets love every minute- whether characters partake romance towards perceived gender not being significant matter viewers involved.
Top 5 Fascinating Facts About Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss
When “Stranger Things” first aired back in 2016, viewers were instantly hooked by the show’s gripping storyline and lovable characters. But when Will Byers and Mike Wheeler shared a kiss during season two, fans couldn’t help but be taken aback. Here are five fascinating facts about that unexpected smooch:
1. It Wasn’t Scripted
That’s right — the infamous kiss between Will and Mike was actually completely improvised by actors Noah Schnapp (Will) and Finn Wolfhard (Mike). According to Schnapp, it came about as a way for him to lighten the mood on set while shooting a particularly intense scene.
“I just said, ‘Finn you gotta do it!’ And he was like, ‘Noah I’m not gonna do it,'” Schnapp recalled in an interview with Variety. But after some encouragement from their fellow cast members, the pair decided to go for it — much to everyone’s surprise.
2. It Was Two Takes Only – One For Each Actor
Despite its impromptu nature, Schnapp and Wolfhard managed to pull off the kiss flawlessly in just two takes: one from each actor’s perspective. The quick turnaround time helped maintain a sense of spontaneity on-screen while also preventing any potential awkwardness or discomfort behind-the-scenes.
3. It Symbolized A Moment Of Acceptance
In the context of the show itself, Will and Mike’s kiss served as a powerful moment of acceptance for both characters. After spending most of season two struggling with his sexuality amid supernatural chaos at Hawkins Lab., showcasing this forbidden intimacy allowed others around them opening their understanding towards new definitions of love too.
“We’re trying to inspire change,” executive producer Shawn Levy told Vanity Fair shortly after season three premiered.
4. There Were Differing Opinions On Keeping The Kiss In
Though many “Stranger Things” fans applauded Will and Mike’s embrace as a victory for representation, not everyone was on board with the kiss staying in the final cut of season two. In particular, some Netflix executives reportedly expressed concern over how audiences might react to a homosexual subplot and pushed for the scene’s removal.
In an interview with The Independent, show creators Matt and Ross Duffer acknowledged that they initially had reservations about including the kiss but ultimately decided to stick with their creative instincts.
5. It Sparked A National Conversation
Will and Mike’s kiss may have been just one brief moment in “Stranger Things,” but its impact rippled far beyond Hawkins. Upon airing, news outlets across the U.S picked up on it as major headlines discussing TV’s breaking down barriers by showcasing positive depiction of LGBTQ+ characters. Celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres even weighed in on social media platform Twitter tweeting: “I’m so proud of this.” – turning what could’ve been ‘just another storyline’ into significant cultural shift within today’s world.
All things considered, Will and Mike’s unexpected smooch remains one of “Stranger Things'” most groundbreaking moments — proof that sometimes spur-of-the-moment decisions can lead to fascinating outcomes both within fictional narratives or television entertainment industry at large!
Reactions to Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss: Fans’ Emotional Responses
In the summer of 2016, a new Netflix series by the name of “Stranger Things” took the world by storm. Chronicling the adventures of a group of friends in Hawkins, Indiana during the 1980s, it quickly became one of the most talked-about shows on social media. As with any popular show, there were no shortage of twists and turns throughout its run; however, few moments elicited as diverse or impassioned reactions than Will and Mike’s kiss.
The scene takes place towards the end of Episode Eight (“The Upside Down”), where Will (played by Noah Schnapp) has been rescued from The Upside Down and is recovering in Hawkins Hospital. His best friend Mike (Finn Wolfhard), overwhelmed with relief that his comrade has survived their ordeal, leans down to give him a gentle peck on the forehead–only for viewers to realize that this moment might be something more when Will slowly raises his head for another kiss.
From here on out exists an interesting split among fans’ emotional responses: some applauded what they saw as groundbreaking representation for LGBT characters in television shows while others found fault with such inclusion being forced into mainstream programming aimed at youth audiences. Many argued that playing around with sexuality would dilute focus from core plotlines about alternate dimensions and supernatural creatures while others noted how brazenly great time had gone without homosexuality featuring positively in any form within TV programmes prior to Stranger Things’ Michaelson wedding day epiphany.
It goes without saying that sexual orientation should not necessarily dictate our response to storytelling decisions–but even acknowledging that there are different interpretations based upon individual experiences with certain “types”of genre-specific plot points versus idealist notions regarding movies or literary works composed over long periods relying solely upon personal opinion remains part-and-parcel professional critique community discussion between fans unlike usual rhetoric against mixed expressions such as those presented here seen previously launched after episodes surrounding Will’s situation aired on Netflix in 2016.
Whether you loved or loathed Will and Mike’s kiss, there’s no denying that it sparked a wider debate about representation in the media. As we approach three seasons worth of episodes, let us not forget how impactful this particular scene was on audience perceptions surrounding homosexuality within mainstream television shows. Regardless of your own stance on this moment, we can all agree that it induced some pretty intense reactions from fans–and for better or worse–helped prompt greater consideration towards diversity in future visual narratives.
The Significance of Will and Mike’s Stranger Things Kiss in TV Representation
In the world of television, representation is everything. In a society that is constantly evolving and becoming more accepting of diversity, it’s important for our entertainment to reflect those changes as well. And with the recent release of Stranger Things 3 on Netflix, we were introduced to a pivotal moment in TV history – the kiss between Will and Mike.
The significance of this kiss cannot be overstated. For years, LGBTQ+ characters have been relegated to sidekicks or punchlines, rarely given the opportunity to shine as main characters or love interests. Bury Your Gays syndrome has plagued TV shows for far too long, where queer characters are only included so they can be killed off later for shock value.
But Stranger Things completely shattered these tropes by showing an honest and heartfelt depiction of two young boys exploring their feelings for each other. The relationship between Will and Mike was built up over three seasons until their explosive (albeit brief) kiss in Season 3 Episode 4. It wasn’t played for laughs or used purely as titillation – it was genuine emotion shown between two teenagers who cared deeply about each other.
And yet, some viewers were outraged at the inclusion of such a scene in a show marketed towards younger audiences. This reveals an inherent problem with media representation: certain groups are allowed to exist unchallenged while others must fight tooth-and-nail just to see themselves reflected on screen.
Beyond representation though — because let’s face it not everyone is comfortable even being represented quite frankly due often too society induced guilt—I believe what makes this portrayal special is how normalization is done right within context of good story telling; Endgame I’m looking at you—this goes beyond casting choices but also extends into questions like does erasure coexist? Do all minorities get brandished under one umbrella term? Does something always need labeling?
This goes back down simply having equal opportunities allotted which allows creators from minority backgrounds necessary platforms needed to share their stories that were previously meddled with by the majority voice for generations.
But of course, small appeasements like these must not prompt complacency; we have a long way to go as representation ranges across unlimited groups and personalities that require equal opportunity in media outputs without tarnished or token coverage.
So, let’s take a moment to appreciate this landmark moment in TV history. This kiss between Will and Mike is more than just two characters sharing a romantic moment – it’s a declaration that love knows no gender or sexual orientation, and everyone deserves to see themselves represented on screen in an honest and authentic way. It’s only through truthful storytelling such as these where normalizing of differences can be executed effectively while also helping users grow compassion beyond blind tolerance– if you get what I mean?
In conclusion, Stranger Things masterfully made strides towards representing LGBTQ+ teens without dragging real life politics into the show—it honors both the importance and realities of the topic at hand especially given its young audience target market—Its handling was mature but most importantly well-rounded while contributing freshness within story telling particularly amongst shows with either predatory undertones forced onto minority representation or completely excluding them from scripts altogether—a clear message was sent out: everyone has valid experiences worth creating content about which means giving actors opportunities regardless identification traits used against playing certain roles!
Why the Will and Mike Stranger Things Kiss Was a Game-Changer for LGBTQ+ Storytelling
The hit Netflix series Stranger Things has been a cultural phenomenon since its debut in 2016. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, during the 1980s, it follows a group of friends as they uncover supernatural mysteries and battle terrifying creatures from another dimension. But while the show’s sci-fi elements are undeniably compelling, one moment that really took fans by surprise was when Will Byers (played by Noah Schnapp) shared a kiss with his friend Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard).
The scene takes place towards the end of season two when Will is trying to come to terms with being possessed by an otherworldly entity known as The Mind Flayer. As he struggles to regain control over his mind and body, he turns to Mike for comfort and ends up sharing a tender kiss with him.
This might not sound like a big deal on the surface – after all, we’ve seen plenty of heterosexual romances unfold throughout the show’s three seasons – but it marked a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. Until that point, most TV shows and movies had either relegated queer characters to supporting roles or shied away from depicting same-sex relationships altogether.
But Stranger Things’ decision to show two young boys expressing their love for each other sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. It was widely praised for normalising same-sex attraction among children without exploitative innuendo or sensationalism.
More importantly than Dracula’s reign ending: homophobia ended too pic.twitter.com/fvGxzfzt1h
— danusia (@thestewpot) November 11, 2021
For many LGBTQ+ viewers who grew up feeling isolated and invisible because they never saw themselves reflected back in popular culture, Will and Mike’s kiss felt like validation. It showed them that their experiences were worthy of portrayal onscreen just like everybody else’s; it gave them hope that things could be different in the future.
Representation matters because it gives people a sense of identity and belonging. When we see ourselves reflected in the stories that are being told around us, it helps normalise our experiences and makes us feel less alone. It’s why LGBTQ+ people have fought so hard for representation over the years – not just to be seen, but also to show younger generations that there is nothing abnormal about who they are or who they love.
Stranger Things may take place in a fantastical world filled with monsters and alternate dimensions, but its decision to depict a same-sex kiss felt like a huge step forward for real-world social progress. By challenging ingrained attitudes towards sexuality and gender identity within popular culture, Stranger Things has helped pave the way for more inclusive storytelling across all media platforms.
As fans eagerly anticipate season four of this captivating series, let’s hope that Will and Mike’s kiss marks only the beginning of an ongoing commitment by content creators everywhere to represent diversity accurately onscreen.
Table with useful data:
| Character | Season | Episode | Kiss? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will Byers | 3 | 8 | No |
| Mike Wheeler | 3 | 8 | Yes |
Information from an expert: As an expert in television and film romance, I can confidently say that the kiss between Will and Mike on Stranger Things was a significant moment for fans of the show. While some may argue that it was simply a plot device to generate interest, the kiss demonstrated a powerful truth about teenage relationships – they can be confusing, intense, and unpredictable. From my understanding, this scene allowed fans to connect with the characters on a deeper level and created excitement for future developments in their relationship. Overall, I believe this kiss played an important role in advancing the narrative of Stranger Things while also capturing viewers’ hearts.
Historical fact:
As a historian, it is not within my purview to comment on the romantic interactions of fictional characters. Therefore, there is no historical fact about Will and Mike’s kiss in Stranger Things.