Netflix Just Lost Its Big Hitmakers For One Stupid Reason

Netflix does whatever it can to keep its biggest creators producing fresh work. David Fincher has directed movies and TV shows for the platform since , are still set to premiere on Netflix. However, the Duffers are likely to shift their focus to feature films moving forward.

Paramount recently merged with Skydance, and the new company has emphasized the importance of theatrical films. Netflix, conversely, has always considered theatrical releases a low priority, something done only to qualify for awards or satisfy part of a deal with a big-name director. According to Belloni, Paramount’s differing strategy played a major role in the decision.

Losing the Duffer Brothers is a blow to Netflix, but maybe it’s the shock the company needs to realize theatrical movies aren’t going anywhere. The upcoming Netflix adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia will have an exclusive theatrical window. If it’s successful, we may just see a change of heart for the streaming-first company.

Stranger Things Season 5 Part 1 premieres November 26, 2025, on Netflix.