Director Frank Darabont emerged from retirement to helm two episodes of Stranger Things' fifth and final season after the Duffer brothers approached him as a fan of his work. The Shawshank Redemption filmmaker, who had stepped away from directing in 2013, joined the production in Atlanta for six months. His episodes feature in the show's split release, with Episode 3 already out and Episode 5 set for Christmas Day.
Frank Darabont, known for directing classics like The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile, had settled into retirement on California's Central Coast after wrapping his last project, the 2013 Mob City episode 'Red Light.' In 2016, Netflix launched Stranger Things, which Darabont and his wife binge-watched multiple times through its first four seasons.
About a decade later, Darabont's agent shared that creators Matt and Ross Duffer were admirers of his films. The mutual appreciation led to a lunch meeting in Los Angeles during the development of season 5. When director Dan Trachtenberg exited due to a conflict with Predator: Badlands, the Duffers offered Darabont the role. After consulting his wife and considering the logistics of relocating with their five chihuahuas to Atlanta, he accepted.
At 66, Darabont directed Episodes 3 ('The Turnbow Trap') and 5 ('Shock Jock') of the final season, marking his return after 13 years. Episode 3 debuted in Volume 1 on November 26, blending action in the Upside Down and real world. Episode 5 launches Volume 2 on December 25, with the series finale arriving in theaters and on Netflix December 31.
Reflecting on the experience, Darabont said, 'It was a hell of a great experience.' He praised the scripts, calling them 'terrific,' and appreciated Netflix's supportive environment. Working digitally felt seamless: 'It's like riding a bicycle: You don't forget.' He commended the crew, including DP Brett Jutkiewicz and AD Lisa Rowe, and noted the young cast's deep connection to their roles after nearly a decade on the show.
Darabont guided actors like Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin on precise physical actions, such as tool drops and timed pauses for post-production effects. He emphasized his role as 'head cheerleader,' providing encouragement amid long shoots. Though content in retirement, he remains open to special projects: 'If there's a friendly situation and I'm excited enough about the material, then it's certainly a possibility.'
The collaboration highlighted Stranger Things' appeal, with Darabont thrilled by scenes involving Henry in Episode 5.
