When it comes to scary things in the Upside Down, it turns out that a Demogorgun is no match for intellectual property lawyers.
"The Upside Down," A "Stranger Things"-themed pop-up bar in Chicago, has been hit with a cease-and-desist letter from Netflix after it was found in violation of intellectual property laws because it never received Netflix's blessing.
But Netflix didn’t sent just any cease-and-desist letter. No, they got in on the spirit of the show with a nerdy, yet firm, directive for the bar’s owners:
The bar, designed by the same folks that created the Windy City's Emporium Arcade Bar, debuted on Aug. 18 in Logan Square. According to Eater Chicago, patrons of "The Upside Down" can order show-themed drinks, such as "Eleven's Eggo's," served with a waffle wedge; and a drink named for the Demogorgun, the show's big monster.
Fans of the show's theme music from Austin band S U R V I V E can indulge in a few kegs of Goose Island's GI5-5538, a red ale that was brewed specifically for the band.
The bar is also decorated with a ton of "Stranger Things" memorabillia, including a huge mural of Eleven, the Byers family couch, Christmas lights (complete with the alphabet), an A/V rig and some props designed to look like the Hawkins Energy Department. Check out photos of the bar here.
As one might guess, having all of this out in the open without permission would be cause for some concern from Netflix. The bar was originally scheduled to close after a six-week run, with plans for an extension if it was profitable. As it stands now, the bar will close on Oct. 1.
Nevertheless, this looks like a win-win for the bar and the streaming service. The second season of “Stranger Things” debuts next month, and the letter does leave future pop-ups open to consideration, so both groups get publicity.
So, Chicago, start pedaling your bikes over to the bar before the portal to the Upside Down closes. And Austinites, you've got 10 days to get yourself a flight to Chicago.
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