The 2023 supernatural horror film Five Nights at Freddy's is now available to stream on Netflix, and the franchise will return to theaters with a sequel scheduled for release in the United States on Dec. 5.
Based on Scott Cawthon's 2014 video game series, the first film follows troubled security guard Mike Schmidt, played by Josh Hutcherson, during his perilous five-night shift at the abandoned Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria. The movie, which also stars Elizabeth Lail and Matthew Lillard, earned strong audience support after its theatrical run and performed well at the box office.
Audiences have rated the film positively: Rotten Tomatoes shows an 86% audience score versus a 33% critics' score, reflecting a marked divide between general viewers and professional reviewers. Supporters have praised the film for its pacing, cinematography and elements of nostalgia tied to the video game source material, while some critics and viewers described it as uneven or heavy on fan service.
The first film grossed roughly £220 million worldwide against a production budget of about £14.8 million. Producers have increased spending for the follow-up, which is reported to have a budget near £37.8 million. Emma Tammi will direct the sequel, and Hutcherson, Lail and Lillard are set to reprise their roles.
A studio synopsis for the sequel describes events taking place one year after the original film: former security guard Mike keeps the truth about the animatronic characters from his 11-year-old sister, Abby. When Abby sneaks out to reconnect with Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy, the synopsis says, she triggers a chain of events that reveal "dark secrets about the true origin of Freddy's." The sequel aims to expand on the franchise's mythology while returning to the horror elements that drove audiences to theaters for the first film.
Fan reaction on social platforms has been mixed but enthusiastic in many quarters. Some viewers said the film "exceeded expectations" and called it a new favorite, while others argued the movie primarily rewards existing fans with numerous Easter eggs. Commentary from online creators, including YouTuber Cody Leach, suggested the film will likely resonate more strongly with longtime fans of the video games than with newcomers.
The Netflix rollout gives wider access to viewers who missed the theatrical release and will likely serve as a renewed audience driver ahead of the sequel's December release. The studio has not released additional casting or plot details beyond the synopsis and the announced return of principal cast members.
Five Nights at Freddy's is available to stream now on Netflix. The sequel is scheduled to open in U.S. theaters on Dec. 5.