Exclusive Los Angeles Screening and Q&A: Dive into the Animated World of "Stranger Things: Tales from ’85"

Cartoon Brew proudly presents a special cinematic event, offering fans an unparalleled opportunity to experience the critically acclaimed animated spinoff, "Stranger Things: Tales from ’85," followed by an insightful Q&A session with the creative minds behind the project.

Los Angeles, CA – May 28, 2026 – In a significant event for animation and pop culture enthusiasts, Cartoon Brew is thrilled to announce an exclusive screening of Netflix’s highly anticipated animated series, Stranger Things: Tales from ’85. This special Los Angeles event, presented in partnership with Netflix, will not only offer attendees a first look at the groundbreaking series but will also feature a deeply engaging question-and-answer session with the show’s driving creative forces: showrunner, executive producer, director, and writer Eric Robles, and co-executive producer Ian Graham.

The event promises to be a highlight of the entertainment calendar, offering a unique convergence of animation artistry and the beloved Stranger Things universe. Given the immense popularity of the franchise and the unique nature of this animated expansion, attendance is expected to be highly sought after. Interested individuals are strongly encouraged to RSVP promptly to secure their spot.

Unveiling a New Chapter in the Stranger Things Saga

Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 is a bold and innovative foray into the world of animation for the globally recognized Netflix phenomenon. Set during the pivotal winter of 1985, the series bridges the narrative gap between the second and third seasons of the live-action show. It centers on the iconic group of friends – Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Max – as they confront a chilling new paranormal threat that has begun to creep through the seemingly idyllic town of Hawkins.

The series draws profound inspiration from the vibrant aesthetic and energetic spirit of classic Saturday morning cartoons, a deliberate artistic choice that imbues the narrative with a distinct visual and thematic identity. This animated format allows for a fresh exploration of the series’ core elements: the blend of supernatural horror, the enduring themes of coming-of-age adventure, and the signature stylized animation that has captivated audiences worldwide. Furthermore, Tales from ’85 introduces a compelling new mystery that is intricately woven into the fabric of the Upside Down, promising to deepen the lore and expand the established narrative of Stranger Things.

A Night of Animation, Storytelling, and Creative Insight

The exclusive screening and Q&A event is meticulously planned to provide an immersive and enriching experience for all attendees. The evening will commence at 6:00 PM with a sophisticated pre-reception, offering a chance for guests to mingle and anticipate the festivities ahead. This will be followed by the premiere screening of Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 at 7:00 PM, held within the esteemed confines of the Netflix Home Theater.

The cinematic experience will culminate in an engaging conversation with Eric Robles and Ian Graham. This highly anticipated Q&A session will be expertly moderated by Carlos Aguilar, a respected friend and contributor to Cartoon Brew, known for his insightful interviews and deep understanding of the animation industry. Attendees will have the invaluable opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge about the creative process, the artistic challenges and triumphs of translating the Stranger Things universe into animation, and the inspirations that shaped this unique project.

The Genesis of an Animated Spinoff

The production of Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 represents a significant expansion of the Stranger Things franchise, venturing into a fully animated format. This ambitious endeavor is a collaborative effort between Netflix and Flying Bark Productions, a studio renowned for its exceptional animation capabilities. The series’ aesthetic and thematic influences are deeply rooted in the iconic animated programming of the 1980s, drawing direct inspiration from beloved genre classics such as The Real Ghostbusters and Beetlejuice. This deliberate homage not only appeals to nostalgia but also carves out a distinct visual identity for the animated spinoff, setting it apart while remaining true to the spirit of the original series.

The decision to explore an animated format for a Stranger Things spinoff speaks volumes about the franchise’s commitment to creative evolution and its willingness to engage with different storytelling mediums. Animation offers a unique set of tools and possibilities, allowing for visual storytelling that can push boundaries and explore imaginative concepts in ways that live-action might not always accommodate. For Tales from ’85, this means a heightened sense of wonder, potentially more dynamic action sequences, and a visual style that directly evokes the era that heavily influences the Stranger Things narrative.

Event Details: Mark Your Calendars

The exclusive screening and Q&A event for Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 is scheduled to take place on:

Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Time:

• 6:00 PM: Pre-Reception
• 7:00 PM: Screening and Q&A

Location:
Netflix Home Theater
1455 N Van Ness Ave
Los Angeles, CA

This event is more than just a screening; it is a celebration of animation as a powerful storytelling medium and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Stranger Things universe. Cartoon Brew’s commitment to showcasing innovative and impactful animation projects makes this collaboration with Netflix a natural and exciting fit.

The Creative Architects: Eric Robles and Ian Graham

Eric Robles, a seasoned veteran in the animation industry, brings a wealth of experience and a distinct creative vision to Stranger Things: Tales from ’85. His role as showrunner, executive producer, director, and writer underscores his integral involvement in shaping every facet of the series. Robles has been instrumental in translating the complex narrative and beloved characters of Stranger Things into a compelling animated format, ensuring that the show resonates with both long-time fans and new audiences. His leadership has guided the project through its intricate production, from conceptualization to final polish, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the source material.

Ian Graham, serving as co-executive producer, has worked closely with Robles to bring the animated vision to life. His expertise in navigating the production landscape and his collaborative spirit have been crucial in overcoming the unique challenges inherent in an animated series of this scale. Graham’s contribution ensures that the project maintains its artistic integrity and narrative coherence, while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary animation. Together, Robles and Graham represent a formidable creative partnership, dedicated to delivering a high-quality and engaging viewing experience.

The Art of Animation and its Influence

The choice to create an animated Stranger Things spinoff is a significant development, highlighting the growing acceptance and appreciation of animation as a mature and versatile storytelling medium capable of tackling a wide range of genres and themes. The series’ explicit nod to classic 1980s cartoons is not merely a stylistic choice but a thematic one, evoking a sense of nostalgia while simultaneously providing a fresh lens through which to view the Stranger Things narrative.

This approach allows for a particular kind of visual storytelling that can emphasize the fantastical elements of the Upside Down and the inherent dangers lurking within Hawkins. The exaggerated and stylized nature of 1980s animation often lent itself to memorable character designs and dynamic action sequences, elements that can be leveraged to enhance the suspense and adventure of Stranger Things. By drawing on these influences, Tales from ’85 aims to capture a specific cultural moment while also forging its own unique identity within the broader Stranger Things canon.

The success of animated series in recent years, ranging from adult-oriented dramas to family-friendly adventures, has demonstrated the medium’s broad appeal and its capacity for nuanced storytelling. Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 stands as a prime example of this trend, showcasing how animation can be used to expand beloved live-action franchises and explore new narrative avenues. The collaboration between Netflix and Flying Bark Productions is a testament to this evolving landscape, bringing together top-tier talent and cutting-edge technology to produce a series that is both artistically ambitious and commercially resonant.

Implications for the Franchise and the Animation Industry

The creation and premiere of Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 carries significant implications for both the Stranger Things franchise and the broader animation industry. For the franchise, this animated spinoff represents a strategic move to deepen fan engagement and broaden its appeal across different demographics and storytelling formats. By venturing into animation, Netflix can continue to explore the rich mythology of Stranger Things without the constraints of live-action production, allowing for greater creative freedom and the potential to introduce new characters and storylines that might be more challenging to realize in live-action. This expansion also offers a gateway for younger audiences to become acquainted with the Stranger Things universe.

From an industry perspective, the success of Tales from ’85 could further solidify the trend of major studios and streaming platforms investing in high-quality animated content for adult and young adult audiences. It underscores the value of animation as a powerful tool for storytelling, capable of delivering complex narratives, sophisticated visual artistry, and compelling emotional depth. The event itself, by bringing together creators, media, and fans, serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and appreciation of the craft of animation, potentially inspiring future projects and nurturing the next generation of animators and storytellers.

Cartoon Brew, as a leading voice in the animation community, plays a vital role in highlighting such significant developments. By hosting this exclusive screening and Q&A, they are not only providing a valuable service to their audience but also contributing to the ongoing conversation about the evolving landscape of animation and its place within the broader entertainment industry. This event is a testament to the power of animation to captivate, to innovate, and to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.

Cartoon Brew extends its enthusiastic invitation to all who appreciate the art of animation and the magic of the Stranger Things universe. This is an opportunity not to be missed to witness the next chapter of a global phenomenon, brought to life through the captivating medium of animation.