Netflix has been on a roll in 2026, with blockbusters like The Rip and War Machine dominating the streaming charts. But the biggest question on everyone's mind is whether the Duffer Brothers' latest project, The Boroughs, can fill the void left by Stranger Things. According to early reviews, it might just do that—and then some.
The Boroughs, an eight-part sci-fi series executive produced by the Duffer Brothers, has landed with a stellar 92% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes. That's a full ten points higher than the 82% earned by the final season of Stranger Things. Even more impressive, the audience score sits at 84%, compared to Stranger Things' final season's 52%. So, is it better? The numbers suggest it's off to a stronger start.
What Is 'The Boroughs' About?
Set in a seemingly idyllic retirement community, the series follows a grieving newcomer who stumbles upon a monstrous creature. He soon teams up with a ragtag group of unlikely heroes to uncover a dark secret lurking beneath the surface. The official synopsis teases that their "golden years" are far more dangerous—and they are far more formidable—than anyone expects.
The cast is a who's who of character actors, including Alfred Molina, Alfre Woodard, Denis O'Hare, Clarke Peters, Bill Pullman, Jena Malone, and Carlos Miranda. The show was created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, with the Duffer Brothers serving as executive producers and heavily shaping the creative direction.
How Does It Compare to 'Stranger Things'?
While Stranger Things was a cultural phenomenon, its final season divided fans. The Boroughs seems to have avoided that pitfall, at least initially. Critics have praised the performances, particularly Molina's, though some have noted slower pacing and a familiar Spielbergian vibe. Collider's review gave it a 7/10, lauding the cast but calling the story uneven. Screen Rant's 6/10 review highlighted the nostalgic elements but pointed out the deliberate pace as a weak spot.
Still, the Rotten Tomatoes scores suggest that The Boroughs has resonated with both critics and audiences in a way that Stranger Things' final season did not. For fans looking for a new sci-fi obsession, this might be it. If you're in the mood for more quick sci-fi fixes, check out our list of 7 Quick Sci-Fi Gems on Netflix (All Under 100 Minutes).
Should You Watch It?
If you're a fan of the Duffer Brothers' signature blend of horror, heart, and 80s-inspired storytelling, The Boroughs is a no-brainer. It offers a fresh twist on the retirement community setting, turning it into a battleground for the ages. The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, and the mystery unfolds at a deliberate, atmospheric pace.
For those who prefer faster-paced sci-fi, you might want to temper expectations. But if you're looking for a character-driven story with a unique premise, this is worth your time. And if you're still craving more after binging all eight episodes, consider diving into Why Netflix's 'Sweet Home' Remains the Ultimate Zombie Horror Binge 2 Years Later.
All episodes of The Boroughs are now streaming on Netflix. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage as the show continues to generate buzz.
