Last month, it was reported that Netflix has filmed the award-winning stage production Stranger Things: The First Shadow for release on the platform.
The story explores Henry Creel’s origins decades before the events of the flagship series. The play, which originated in London’s West End and later transferred to Broadway, takes place in 1959 and follows a young Henry navigating high school life in Hawkins, Indiana, while also featuring younger iterations of Joyce Byers, Jim Hopper, and Bob Newby.
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According to Collider, producers reportedly paused live performances to ensure the filmed version retained its principal cast, including Tony nominee Louis McCartney in the role of Henry. The decision allows Netflix to preserve the original staging before cast changes occur later in the Broadway run. Public performances have since resumed.
The First Shadow has earned strong reviews for its technical stagecraft. With a runtime approaching three hours including intermission (although performances vary), the filmed edition will presumably stream as a single feature-length presentation, although a release date has not been disclosed.
At the same time, speculation about a Stranger Things movie continues to circulate online. The rumor gained traction after comments from Holly Wheeler actress Nell Fisher, who addressed the subject during an appearance on Absolute Radio (via TikTok).
“I have not heard anything. I have not heard anything,” she said. “I mean, I think it's every day the internet comes up with some theory or other, but, you know, who's to say.”
Netflix has made no announcement regarding a feature film. The next spinoff from the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down is Stranger Things: Tales From '85 , a 3D animated series that premieres on April 23.
The First Shadow is now running in the West End and on Broadway. Stranger Things seasons 1 — 5 are now streaming on Netflix.
Have you seen The First Shadow? Let us know in the comments!
