Episode Analysis

What was the grammatical move?

The grammatical move was a cross-cutting technique that alternated between Joyce communicating with Christmas lights and the police discovering a body in the quarry.

Describe, in detail, the specific move that you saw:

The scene cuts back and forth between Joyce deciphering the lights strung up on her wall—trying to communicate with Will—and the authorities finding what appears to be Will’s body. These cuts get quicker and more intense as the scenes unfold.

What was the effect? Why did the director choose to film it this way?

This cross-cutting builds suspense and emotional intensity. It shows how two realities—one supernatural and one grounded—are unfolding simultaneously. The director uses it to blur the line between reality and the unknown, emphasizing the horror and disbelief the characters experience.

Plot Summary (3–4 sentences):

In this episode, Joyce becomes convinced that Will is alive and communicating with her through electricity. Meanwhile, Eleven helps the boys search for clues, and the police continue their investigation. The climax occurs when a body resembling Will’s is discovered, devastating the community and confusing the narrative. The episode ends with viewers questioning whether Will is dead or trapped elsewhere.

How did one of the film elements contribute to the understanding of the plot?

The use of lighting, particularly the flickering Christmas lights, conveys that there’s a supernatural force at work. This visual cue helps the audience understand that Will may be alive in another dimension, even as his supposed body is found in the real world.

How did one of the film elements contribute to the development of one of the characters?

Joyce’s interactions with the lights show her transformation from a grieving, desperate mother to someone who is willing to trust the unexplainable. Her belief in the supernatural sets her apart from the rest of the town and shows her strength and resilience in the face of doubt