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The finale of Netflix\u2019s blockbuster series \u201cStranger Things\u201d gave movie theaters a much needed jolt, generating an estimated $20 to $25 million at the box office, according to multiple reports. <\/p>\n
Matt and Ross Duffer\u2019s supernatural thriller debuted simultaneously on the streaming platform and some 600 cinemas on New Year\u2019s Eve; holding encore showings all through New Year\u2019s Day. <\/p>\n
Owing to the cast\u2019s contractual terms for residuals, theaters could not charge for tickets. Instead, fans reserved seats for performances directly from theaters, paying for mandatory food and beverages vouchers. AMC and Cinemark Theatres charged $20 for the concession vouchers while Regal Cinemas charged $11 \u2014 in homage to the show\u2019s lead character, Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown. <\/p>\n
AMC Theatres, the world\u2019s largest theater chain, played the finale at 231 of its theaters across the U.S. \u2014 which accounted for one-third of all theaters that held performances over the holiday. <\/p>\n
The chain said that more than 753,000 viewers attended a performance at one of its cinemas over two days, bringing in more than $15 million.<\/p>\n
Expectations for the theater showing was high. <\/p>\n
\u201cOur year ends on a high: Netflix\u2019s Strangers Things series finale to show in many AMC theatres this week. Two days only New Year\u2019s Eve and Jan 1.,\u201d tweeted AMC\u2019s CEO Adam Aron on Dec. 30<\/a>. \u201cTheatres are packed. Many sellouts but seats still available. How many Stranger Things tickets do you think AMC will sell?\u201d<\/p>\n It was a rare win for the lagging domestic box office. <\/p>\n In 2025, revenue in the U.S. and Canada was expected to reach $8.87 billion, which was marginally better than 2024 and only 20% more than pre-pandemic levels, according to movie data firm Comscore.<\/p>\n