Even ‘Stranger Issues’ Hasn’t Modified Netflix’s Thoughts on Theaters

The Stranger Things finale hit theaters on New Yr’s Eve. But regardless of doing fairly good with that one-day launch, it appears Netflix nonetheless isn’t a fan of the theatrical expertise when it doesn’t must be.

Due to the forged’s contractual phrases for residuals, there aren’t field workplace numbers to report for screenings, however Deadline and different shops reported the finale made $25 million-$30 million price of concession money in its 620 screenings throughout North America. That concession cash technically means the episode beat out KPop Demon Hunters as Netflix’s highest theatrical proprietor for 2025. The finale can also be a specific win for AMC, which didn’t display screen KPop throughout that film’s time(s) in theaters, however reported greater than half of all Stranger Issues followers watched it at an AMC theater.

You’d suppose this may be excellent news because the streamer’s trying to snatch up Warner Bros.—which had a pretty strong huge display screen run in 2025—and honor that studio’s coverage of putting its movies in theaters, however sources talking to Deadline declare Netflix is contemplating a 17-day window for any of its potential movies. That’s lower than half of the 45-day customary adhered to by WB and different Hollywood studios, and AMC and different theatrical chains would very a lot want that customary maintained. Exhibitors would additionally love for extra theatrical runs from Netflix, with the Stranger finale working as a doable “olive department” to assist get that ball rolling.

But when that alleged 17-day window occurs, it’d “steamroll” the movie show enterprise and be unhealthy for everybody basically. At time of writing, Netflix hasn’t disclosed any strikes it goals to make ought to it get to accumulate WB, as a substitute preserving to its stance in December that issues will presently be business as usual. However frequent sense and the streamer’s own past will let you know that issues will probably be something however, and ultimately, that different shoe will drop.

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