The Duffer Brothers are on the verge of captivating audiences once again with their new Netflix series, The Boroughs. Transitioning from the Upside Down suburbs of Hawkins, Indiana, to the sunny landscapes of New Mexico, the creators of the beloved Stranger Things have revealed details of their upcoming project during the Next on Netflix 2025 event.
Set within the vibrant scenery of a retirement community, The Boroughs offers viewers a fresh twist on the brothers' signature storytelling style. "The Boroughs probably shares the most DNA with Stranger Things because it’s about a group of misfits who fight an otherworldly evil. Only unlike Stranger Things, it’s set in a retirement community, so that's something different. This time our misfits are a little on the older side. They ride golf carts, not bikes," explained Matt Duffer, highlighting the series' distinctive setting.
The narrative revolves around these unlikely heroes who must unite to thwart otherworldly forces intent on stealing their most cherished possession: time. The surreal blend of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments is anticipated to resonate as strongly as the previous series.
The eight-episode series boasts an impressive cast featuring the likes of Alfred Molina, known for his role in Spider-Man: No Way Home, alongside Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, and Bill Pullman. Each brings their flair to the diverse characters set against the backdrop of New Mexico's desert. Matt Duffer shared his excitement, stating, "It stars Alfred Molina, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, Bill Pullman, and a host of other screen icons who we’re obsessed with."
Fans are understandably eager as the Duffers have built their reputation on producing content seamlessly blending nostalgia with creative narratives. The brothers are well-known for their affinity for spinning tales centered around strong thematic elements, world-building, and complex character arcs. This approach is anticipated to be on full display as the plot and character dynamics begin to unfurl.
The Boroughs is not the only project on the horizon for the Duffer Brothers. They are also working on another original series titled Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen. This wedding-themed horror story, according to Ross Duffer, explores the anxieties surrounding lifelong commitments, adding yet another layer to their impressive portfolio.
With filming for The Boroughs already underway, the release is slated for 2026, just after the much-anticipated fifth season of Stranger Things, which fans can expect later this year. The timing suggests Netflix is primed for continued engagement with the Duffer Brothers' brand of suspense and adventure, even as they close the chapter on their groundbreaking series.
Looking to the future, there's much speculation about how The Boroughs will differentiate itself from its predecessor. Will it maintain the same nostalgic feel but with a more mature perspective? Matt Duffer's reflections suggest they aim to balance familiarity with innovation. He remarked, “We’ve seen the first three episodes, and we’re really pumped about it. It’s fun, scary, and touching too, and we can’t wait for you to see it.”
While fans of Stranger Things may feel sadness at its impending conclusion, the anticipation for The Boroughs signals the Duffer Brothers' continuing legacy. Their knack for storytelling, combined with the intriguing premise and renowned cast, promises to keep audiences coming back for more as they navigate the boundaries of suspense, horror, and heart.
With both The Boroughs and Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen on the horizon, there’s no doubt the Duffer Brothers are poised to sustain their presence as influential creators at Netflix, appealing not only to nostalgia but also to the universal themes of time, love, and heroism.