The ‘Stranger Things’ finale makes the jump to the big screen: Netflix unexpectedly changes plans
The creators of ‘Stranger Things’, Matt and Ross Duffer, intend to close out their hit Netflix series with a bang.
The fifth and final season of Stranger Things is fast approaching, and all signs point to it being one of the biggest entertainment events of the year. Millions of fans around the globe are eagerly awaiting the last episodes of the hit Netflix series, which is expected to shatter records. The show’s creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, are well aware of the anticipation - and they’re planning something unprecedented to mark the occasion.
In a surprising move, Netflix has confirmed that the series finale of Stranger Things will be released not only on its streaming platform but also in movie theaters. That’s right - the final episode will hit the big screen in more than 350 theaters across the United States and Canada, with additional locations and countries expected to join the celebration of the Upside Down.
When can you watch the ‘Stranger Things’ finale?
The theatrical premiere will coincide with the streaming release in North America on December 31, 2025, and screenings will continue through January 1, 2026. This won’t be a one-night-only event - fans will have at least two days to experience the epic conclusion in cinemas.
What makes this announcement even more remarkable is that Netflix had previously ruled out a theatrical release, reportedly at the request of the Duffer Brothers themselves. But things have changed. Following the Duffers’ decision to leave Netflix for a new film deal with Paramount - a studio known for its theatrical releases - the streamer has reversed course.
“Something we’ve dreamed about for years”
The creators couldn’t be more thrilled. “We’re beyond excited that fans will have the chance to experience the final episode of Stranger Things in theaters,” the Duffers told The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s something we’ve dreamed about for years, and we’re so grateful to Ted [Sarandos], Bela [Bajaria] and everyone at Netflix for making it happen. Getting to see it on the big screen, with incredible sound, picture and a room full of fans, feels like the perfect - dare we say bitchin’ - way to celebrate the end of this adventure.”
This move sets a historic precedent, blending the worlds of streaming and cinema in a way that’s never been done before. While some series have had theatrical runs after their TV premieres, Stranger Things will be the first to debut an episode simultaneously in theaters and on a streaming platform.
Stranger Things season 5 - release dates in full:
For now, viewers can catch up on the first four seasons of Stranger Things on Netflix. The fifth and final season will be released in three parts:
- Volume 1: (Episodes 1–4): November 26, 2025
- Volume 2: (Episodes 5–7): December 25, 2025
- Finale: (Episode 8, titled The Rightside Up): December 31, 2025
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