Since its debut back in 2016, Stranger Things has taken the world by storm, with fans all over the planet doing various and crazy things to pay homage to the franchise. Back in August, a bar in Chicago named Emporium Arcade Bar has launched a pop-up bar called “The Upside Down,” selling Stranger Things memorabilia and themed drinks. Unsurprisingly, Netflix got aware of the bar and sent a cease and desist letter to the owners. It’s a very cool and mellow letter, though! Check it out below:
My walkie talkie is busted so I had to write this note instead. I heard you launched a Stranger Things pop-up bar at your Logan Square location. Look, I don’t want you to think I’m a total wastoid, and I love how much you guys love the show. (Just wait until you see Season 2!) But unless I’m living in the Upside Down, I don’t think we did a deal with you for this pop-up. You’re obviously creative types, so I’m sure you can appreciate that it’s important to us to have a say in how our fans encounter the worlds we build.
We’re not going to go full Dr. Brenner on you, but we ask that you please (1) not extend the pop-up beyond its 6 week run ending in September, and (2) reach out to us for permission if you plan to do something like this again. Let me know as soon as possible that you agree to these requests.
We love our fans more than anything, but you should know that the demogorgon is not always as forgiving. So please don’t make us call your mom.
How can you not love Netflix after reading this? They’re even letting the bar stay open until the end of September!