Stranger Things Finale Goes Big: Exclusive Two-Hour Screening in Theaters

The two-hour series finale of Stranger Things, titled The Rightside Up, will premiere on Netflix and in more than 350 movie theaters on December 31, starting at 5 p.m. PT and 8 p.m. ET, playing through January 1, 2026. This marks the first time an episode of a Netflix series will also be exhibited theatrically. Details on the precise theaters will be announced at a later date, according to an announcement from Netflix. Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer expressed interest in having the feature-length finale simultaneously premiere in theaters when it drops on the streamer on New Year's Eve. "People don't get to experience how much time and effort is spent on sound and picture, and they're seeing it at reduced quality," Matt said. "More than that, it's about experiencing it at the same time with fans." Ross added, "Because the fans could be there with other fans, and experience it as a communal event." The decision to release the series finale in theaters is a significant move for Netflix, which has traditionally focused on streaming content. However, the Duffer brothers' vision for the finale's theatrical release is in line with the show's nostalgic and retro aesthetic, which often pays homage to classic sci-fi and horror movies of the 1980s. By releasing the finale in theaters, Netflix is giving fans the opportunity to experience the show's epic conclusion on the big screen, with a cinematic sound and picture quality that is typically reserved for feature films. The Stranger Things franchise has been a cultural phenomenon since its debut in 2016, with a dedicated fan base that spans the globe. The show's blend of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age themes has resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a staple of modern pop culture. The decision to release the series finale in theaters is a testament to the show's enduring popularity and the Duffer brothers' commitment to delivering a memorable and impactful conclusion to the series. As the release date approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience the series finale on the big screen. With over 350 theaters participating in the theatrical release, fans will have multiple options to catch the finale in a cinematic setting. The precise theaters participating in the release will be announced at a later date, but fans can expect a wide range of locations to be included. The theatrical release of Stranger Things' series finale marks a new chapter in the show's history, one that will allow fans to experience the epic conclusion in a unique and memorable way. As the Duffer brothers have stated, it's about experiencing the show with other fans, and creating a communal event that will be remembered for years to come.