Netflix
While July 4 weekend is usually associated with hitting the beach and crushing about 16 White Claws, Netflix has decided to make a statement about the power of their programming by dropping Stranger Things 3 — arguably the biggest show they’ve ever had — on Independence Day. Talk about a flex.
Following the one-year gap between Stranger Things and Stranger Things 2, Netflix took almost two full years to produce Stranger Things 3, as the third season of the hit sci-fi series comes about 21 months after Stranger Things 2 first hit the behemoth streaming service.
Given the increase in profile — and therefore budget and cast list — the lengthy production of this upcoming third season was a necessary — dare we say Upside Down-level — evil for the nostalgia-soaked smash.
And if the reviews for Stranger Things 3 are any indication, the nearly-two-year wait was well worth it, as the beloved Netflix series has reportedly hit yet another creative high point:
Rotten Tomatoes: “Vibrant and charming, Stranger Things transforms itself into a riveting — if familiar — summer ride that basks in its neon-laden nostalgia without losing sight of the rich relationships that make the series so endearing.”
indieWire: “By doubling down on relationship stories, Season 3 of “Stranger Things” delivers an oft-charming, deeper-than-expected, and ultimately enjoyable new chapter.”
Newsday: “Reliable, durable and comfortable, “ST3” is what you’d expect and certainly what you want, if what you “want” is seasons 1 and 2, with a few big twists along the way.”
Decider: “It’s a dazzling season that doubles down on what the show does best and fixes its past hiccups. Stranger Things 3 is simply thrilling.”
Den of Geek: “Stranger Things season 3 more than lives up to the legacy its predecessors have established. In fact, the Independence Day storyline surpasses last season’s Halloween-themed outing in many ways, although some aspects defy comparison.”
ComicBook: “Despite its rocky start, the creators and performers find a way to pull off the impossible and deliver the best season yet, all while honoring their loyal fan base and challenging them to want more from a series known for playing it safe.”
Stranger Things 3 will hit Netflix at 3 a.m. EST on Thursday, July 4.