Netflix is once again ready to surprise Stranger Things fans around the world. While viewers are still processing the emotional ending of Stranger Things Season 5, the streaming giant has officially announced a brand-new documentary titled “One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5.” This in-depth behind-the-scenes film offers fans a rare, emotional, and technical look at how one of the biggest TV shows in the world came to an end.
For fans who have grown up with Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and the town of Hawkins, this documentary is more than just bonus content—it’s a farewell letter to a series that defined a generation. In this detailed article, we break down everything you need to know about One Last Adventure, including its release date, runtime, director, inspiration, trailer details, and why it’s a must-watch for Stranger Things fans and filmmaking enthusiasts alike.
What Is One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5?
One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 is an official Netflix documentary that takes viewers behind the scenes of the final season of Stranger Things. The documentary explores the years of effort, creativity, pressure, and emotional investment that went into crafting Season 5, which officially wrapped production during the festive period.
Unlike short featurettes or promotional clips, this is a full-length documentary that dives deep into the making of a modern television phenomenon. Netflix describes it as a detailed look at the “craft, chaos, and collaboration” behind the show’s final chapter.
This marks the second major Stranger Things documentary released by Netflix, following the behind-the-scenes documentary focused on Stranger Things: The First Shadow, the stage play released last year. However, One Last Adventure is far more expansive and personal, focusing directly on the original series and its emotional conclusion.
Netflix Release Date and Time
Netflix has confirmed that One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 will premiere globally on Monday, January 12th.
- Release Time: 12:00 AM PST (standard Netflix release time)
- Worldwide Availability: Yes
Unlike Stranger Things Season 5, which was released in multiple volumes with primetime drops, this documentary will arrive at Netflix’s normal global release time, making it instantly available for fans across different regions.
Runtime and Format
The documentary has an official runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes, making it a feature-length experience rather than a quick behind-the-scenes recap.
This extended runtime allows the filmmakers to:
- Cover the full production timeline of Season 5
- Explore emotional moments from the cast and crew
- Showcase large-scale set pieces and visual effects
- Reflect on the show’s decade-long journey
For fans who love deep dives, this runtime ensures nothing feels rushed or superficial.
Who Directed and Produced the Documentary?
Director: Martina Radwan
The documentary is directed by Martina Radwan, who spent an entire year embedded with the cast and crew of Stranger Things. Her approach offers an intimate, fly-on-the-wall perspective rarely seen in modern streaming-era productions.
Radwan described her experience as having a “front-row seat to the end of an era.” Speaking about the project, she said:
“Spending a full year on set with them was a true privilege—and an absolute thrill. Being able to get close and watching them bring this beloved show to life in real time was pure joy.”
She also praised the openness of the cast and longtime collaborators, noting that everyone shared their personal and collective experiences from nearly a decade of creative filmmaking.
Production Team
The documentary is produced by MakeMake Production, with producers:
- Angus Wall
- Terry Leonard
- Kent Kubena
This experienced team ensures that the documentary maintains a cinematic quality while staying emotionally grounded.
Inspired by Classic DVD Extras
One of the most interesting aspects of One Last Adventure is its inspiration. According to The Duffer Brothers, the documentary was heavily influenced by the legendary behind-the-scenes films created for The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Growing up in Durham, North Carolina, Matt and Ross Duffer dreamed of becoming filmmakers, and those DVD extras played a major role in shaping that dream.
They explained:
“Everything changed when we watched the behind-the-scenes documentaries for The Lord of the Rings. Those films showed the real nuts and bolts of how massive productions are actually made.”
In an era where physical media has declined, the Duffers felt that true behind-the-scenes storytelling has largely disappeared. This documentary is their attempt to bring that tradition back for a new generation.
What Does the Documentary Cover?
One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 goes far beyond surface-level content. According to Netflix, the documentary includes:
- Table reads and script discussions
- Emotional final days on set
- Large-scale stunt coordination
- Visual effects breakdowns
- Set construction and design
- Cast reflections on growing up with the show
- The pressure of ending a global phenomenon
The film captures both the technical complexity of the production and the emotional weight of saying goodbye to Hawkins.
Official Trailer Breakdown
Netflix has released the official trailer for the documentary, giving fans an emotional preview of what’s to come.
The trailer highlights:
- Tearful goodbyes on set
- Massive practical sets and CGI work
- Intimate cast interviews
- The scale of Season 5’s production
It quickly became clear that this documentary isn’t just about how the show was made—it’s about what it meant to the people who made it.
Why This Documentary Matters
Stranger Things isn’t just another Netflix series. It’s a cultural milestone that:
- Launched global stars
- Revived 80s pop culture
- Set new benchmarks for streaming television
This documentary serves as a historical record of how a once-small idea became one of the biggest shows in the world. For aspiring filmmakers, it offers rare insight into large-scale TV production. For fans, it provides closure.
Martina Radwan noted that the Duffer Brothers’ creative process “pushes boundaries and inspires everyone to be better,” and that spirit is clearly reflected throughout the film.
Stranger Things Series Overview
- Rating: TV-MA
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
- Main Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder
Season Release Timeline on Netflix
- Season 5 – Volume 3: December 31, 2025
- Season 5 – Volume 2: December 25, 2025
- Season 5 – Volume 1: November 27, 2025
- Season 4 – Volume 2: July 1, 2022
- Season 4 – Volume 1: May 27, 2022
Final Thoughts
One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most emotional and revealing documentaries. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a casual viewer, or someone interested in filmmaking, this documentary offers something meaningful.
As Stranger Things closes the door on Hawkins, this behind-the-scenes journey ensures fans can say goodbye properly—understanding the passion, pressure, and creativity that brought the series to life.
Are you excited to watch One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 on Netflix? Share your thoughts and favorite Stranger Things moments in the comments.
