As the world eagerly anticipates the next offerings from the Duffer Brothers, known for their iconic series Stranger Things, a new supernatural drama titled The Boroughs has emerged from the shadows. Initially labeled as “Stranger Things at a retirement home,” this description, while catchy, does not fully encapsulate the show’s essence. According to the creators themselves, The Boroughs promises to carve its own niche within the genre while maintaining thematic connections to its predecessor.
The Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross, revealed during the Next on Netflix 2025 event that The Boroughs is fundamentally about a disparate group of characters confronting “otherworldly evil,” similar to the dynamic in Stranger Things. However, what sets this series apart is its unique setting—a tranquil retirement community in the New Mexico desert—giving the narrative an intriguing twist that shifts the focus from youth to the experiences and challenges of older protagonists.
In The Boroughs, the ensemble cast includes seasoned actors such as Alfred Molina and Geena Davis, who bring a wealth of experience to their roles. This strategic casting adds depth to the narrative, allowing for rich character development that often gets sidelined in traditional horror offerings. The show centers on a group of “unlikely heroes,” raising questions about the dynamics of age, experience, and heroism.
As Matt Duffer noted, the protagonists in The Boroughs will be riding golf carts instead of bikes, symbolizing a shift in perspective in how stories about resilience and courage are told in contemporary media. These characters, often dismissed due to their age, are given the opportunity to shine in a genre that frequently prioritizes youth and vigor. This narrative shift not only broadens the appeal of the series but also fosters a sense of inclusion, making it relatable to a wider audience.
At the heart of The Boroughs lies a compelling storyline about the battle against time—an existential threat that resonates deeply with those in their later years. The official tagline, indicating that the characters must prevent an otherworldly force from taking away their time, emphasizes the urgency and poignancy of the narrative. This thematic depth is likely to elicit a more profound emotional response from viewers, inviting reflections on mortality and the value of the time we have.
It is also noteworthy that the creators intentionally highlight these themes, suggesting that audiences can expect a blend of humor, awe, and emotional moments woven throughout the series. By navigating these complex emotional territories, The Boroughs endeavors to challenge the conventions of horror while also offering a heartwarming story about resilience and camaraderie among a group of elderly misfits.
In addition to The Boroughs, the Duffer Brothers introduced another intriguing project titled Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen. This series will delve into the chaos and anxiety of a couple’s tumultuous week leading up to their wedding. While distinct in its focus, this new series shares a kinship with The Boroughs in terms of exploring human emotions tangled with horror elements.
Haley Z. Boston, the executive producer and showrunner, is poised to bring her vision to life with a fresh narrative style that takes a more relatable approach to exploring the dread that accompanies committed relationships. “Bad things do happen” serves not just as a literal plot point, but as a philosophical reminder of the unpredictability of life.
The Boroughs and Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen are both scheduled to premiere in 2026, as the Duffer Brothers simultaneously wrap up the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, set to debut in late 2025. The brothers showed palpable excitement about their upcoming projects, pledging that viewers can expect a thrilling combination of entertainment, emotion, and something truly unique.
In a media landscape often saturated with formulaic horror narratives, The Boroughs stands out for its ambitious premise and diverse casting choices, promising to deliver an enriching viewing experience that underscores the importance of storytelling at all ages. This could be a transformative chapter in the horror genre, reflecting real-life challenges while simultaneously entertaining audiences with supernatural thrills. With both series on the horizon, one can only speculate on the innovative storytelling that awaits.