Stranger Things Season 5 finale is coming to theaters but Netflix viewers are divided

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Netflix has finally announced that the last episodes of Stranger Things‘ fifth season will be shown in some cinemas, giving fans a chance to see the series’ ending on a larger screen. However, this news has created mixed reactions from viewers.

Stranger Things is a massive hit for Netflix, so fans are eagerly anticipating the fifth and final season. After a three-year wait, the first part of the season will finally arrive on November 26, 2025.

The story will continue with a second part on Christmas Day 2025, and conclude with a final episode on New Year’s Eve 2025. Despite discussions, the creators and Netflix have confirmed that the final episode will not be released in theaters.

Things have taken an unexpected turn. While initially a streaming-only release, Netflix now plans to show the final episode in cinemas at the same time – a decision that’s proving controversial.

Netflix viewers “torn” over Stranger Things theatrical release

The upcoming final season of Stranger Things has fans divided. Some are excited about the possibility of seeing it in theaters, but others don’t think it’s a good idea. They’re concerned about the extra cost on top of their subscription and potential distractions from other moviegoers, especially since it’s scheduled to release on New Year’s Eve.

Someone shared on Reddit that they don’t understand why people go to see it in theaters, especially with New York prices. They’d prefer to watch it at home where they won’t be bothered by noisy viewers.

One person questioned why they’d pay an extra $20 to see a movie in theaters when they’re already paying $20 to watch it at home. Another added that they appreciate being able to pause and rewind when streaming, something you can’t do in a movie theater, and also use the pause button for bathroom breaks.

One fan expressed excitement about seeing the finale in theaters, preferring the immersive experience of a large screen and superior sound quality compared to watching at home.

I’d much rather go to the theater than a family event, and the only time it’s been a problem is when it’s for something like a children’s film, such as the Minecraft movie.

Someone in the center of the group said they were unsure whether to see the movie in theaters or at home. They wished they could watch it at home initially and then go to the theater for a second viewing the next day.

I just prefer watching it alone, or with people I know well. I worry about strangers being more interested in romantic pairings than the story itself, or reacting loudly during emotional scenes. I’m really used to the comfort of watching it at home.

I need some time to consider this. I get really upset when characters I like – El, Lucas, Robin, Erica, and Mike, especially – are in serious danger or get hurt.

Someone else agreed, explaining that movies are designed to get reactions from a crowd – things like dramatic pauses after important lines. This show, however, seems made for people watching by themselves or with just a few friends, so it doesn’t rely on those big, communal moments.

Honestly, the thought of being surrounded by really loud, emotional reactions during a showing just isn’t my thing. I’m excited to see the movie eventually, but I think I’ll watch it from the comfort of my own home first – I prefer a more relaxed experience!

What to know about Season 5 finale cinema release

Here’s the plan: the final installment will be shown in over 350 theaters across the US and Canada beginning December 31, 2025, at 5pm Pacific Time. It will become available on Netflix at the exact same time.

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The film will be available to watch both at home and in cinemas until January 1, 2026. You could even watch it at home and then go see it again on the big screen! The only question is whether you’ll have the energy to do both on New Year’s Eve.

The creators of Stranger Things, Matt and Ross Duffer, shared their excitement about bringing the final episode to theaters. They’ve wanted to do this for years and are thankful to Ted, Bela, and the team at Netflix for making it a reality.

Seeing it on the big screen with amazing sound and visuals, surrounded by fellow fans, feels like the ideal way to mark the completion of this journey.

We don’t yet know which cinemas will show the finale, but the streaming service says they’ll soon share details about how to get tickets and where it will be shown.

While you wait, you can explore predictions about which Stranger Things characters might not survive the final season, learn about the possible time jump in Season 5, and see what other TV shows are scheduled to premiere in 2025.

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2025-10-23 19:28