Stranger Things: Tales from '85 (literal translation: Stranger Things: Stories from '85) is a 2026 American animated fantasy horror film series created by Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer (the Duffer Brothers). The film premiered on the Netflix movie platform on April 23, 2026.
Stranger Things: Tales from '85 is an animated spinoff series in the universe of the cult series Stranger Things, which Netflix plans to premiere in 2026. Although the original "„Stranger Things“" (Strange things) concludes with its final fifth season in late 2025, this animated title will continue the adventures in the familiar world of Hawkins in the winter of 1985 with new mysteries and monsters – while maintaining the spirit and atmosphere of the original series.
The action takes place between Season 2 and Season 3 of "„Stranger Things„", in the cold winter of 1985, when Hawkins is once again threatened by paranormal phenomena. Characters familiar from the original series - such as Elle (Eleven), Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will and Max - are drawn into a new adventure in which they must unravel a mystery terrorizing their town and face new supernatural threats, including creatures we have never seen before.
Animation will allow the creative team to "let their imaginations run wild" and introduce monsters and supernatural elements that would be more difficult to realize in a purely live-action format, without the effects and budget constraints of a traditional television show.
The series is being developed by showrunner Eric Robles, and the creators of "„Stranger Things„", Matt and Ross Duffer, are executive producers along with Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen. The animation is being handled by Flying Bark Productions, a studio known for work such as What If…? and other animation franchises.
The style of Stranger Things: Tales from '85 is inspired by Saturday morning animations from the 80s, with the idea being to capture the retro feel and atmosphere of the era, but with modern visual techniques. A rich visual design and a highly saturated palette are planned, mixing CG animation with elements reminiscent of classic animation style – as an homage to the favorite series of the 80s generation.
Stranger Things: Tales from '85 is the first animated spinoff in the series and promises to combine the nostalgic elements of the original with a new vision and adventurous spirit. It's a great chance to return to Hawkins in the 80s and experience new mysteries with beloved characters - this time in an animated form that is not limited by the physical framework of live-action and offers freedom in creating supernatural monsters and mysteries.
