Fans who secured tickets for the theatrical release of the final episode of “Stranger Things” are in luck, as resale tickets are now being sold for much more than their original price on social media platforms. The series finale will be available on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET on New Year’s Eve, with select theatres in Canada and the United States also screening the event.
Tickets initially went on sale for $11 each, with a concession stand voucher of the same value due to talent residuals constraints. According to Cineplex, the Canadian screenings sold out almost immediately, with only a few seats remaining in select theatres.
Landmark Cinemas is also almost sold out nationwide, leaving fans like Omar Hassanali of Mississauga, Ont., searching for tickets on Facebook Marketplace. Hassanali, hoping to attend with his family, found resellers offering tickets for $50 each, with prices ranging up to $200.
While ticket resale is common for live music and sports events, it is less frequent for theatre events. Measures to prevent ticket scalping, such as limits on ticket purchases per user, are in place at Cineplex. However, there are discussions about additional steps to ensure fair access for fans.
Reselling activity is limited for regular movie showings due to ample availability, unlike specialty events like the “Stranger Things” finale. Despite efforts to curb reselling, some fans have expressed frustration over the practice, with calls for stricter regulations.
Hassanali eventually secured tickets at face value for a Jan. 1 screening, eagerly anticipating the event with his family. For those still seeking tickets, a limited number will be available at theatres, and some bars and restaurants are hosting watch parties for the episode.