Event Details and Highlights
On Friday, December 5, 2025, the historic Count Basie Center for the Arts will transform its Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre into a time capsule for one of the most beloved coming‑of‑age movies of all time. The theater doors open at 6:30 p.m., but the real excitement starts at 7:30 p.m. when the Stand By Me 40th‑anniversary screening kicks off.
Organizers have christened the evening “STAND BY ME: The Film and Its Stars 40 Years Later,” promising a night of reflection, connection, and the friendships that shape us. First, the audience will settle in for a pristine, big‑screen showing of the Stephen King‑adapted classic. After the final credits, the lights dim again for an intimate, live conversation with three of the film’s original teen leads: Corey Feldman (Chris), Jerry O'Connell (Teddy), and Wil Wheaton (Gordie).
During the talk, the trio will riff on everything from the sweltering New‑England summer they filmed on to the practical jokes they pulled on set. They’ll also open up about the “summer that changed everything—on set and on screen,” a phrase the organizers use to capture the film’s lasting impact. Expect plenty of laughter, a few tears, and behind‑the‑scenes stories you won’t find in any DVD commentary.
One of the most emotional moments will be a tribute to their late co‑star River Phoenix, whose performance as the quiet, mysterious ace of the group still haunts fans. Feldman, O'Connell, and Wheaton plan to share personal anecdotes about Phoenix, offering a rare glimpse into the friendship that extended far beyond the camera.
Wil Wheaton’s resume extends far beyond his role as Gordie. After Stand By Me, he navigated a career that includes playing Wesley Crusher on Star Trek: The Next Generation, guest spots on The Big Bang Theory, hosting the board‑gaming show Tabletop, and narrating the bestselling audiobook Ready Player One. He’s also an author and podcast host who frequently talks about early‑career challenges and the power of fandom. His presence adds an extra layer of intrigue for anyone who’s followed his journey from teenage heartthrob to indie media guru.
VIP Packages and What to Expect
Fans who want more than just a seat can choose from three VIP tiers, each designed to give a deeper connection to the night’s magic.
- Premium VIP: Includes a premium seat, a professional photo with all three actors, and a signed poster of the film.
- Snapshot VIP: Offers a premium seat plus a photo opportunity with the cast, but no signed poster.
- Keepsake VIP: Provides a premium seat and a signed poster, without the photo session.
All VIP tickets grant early entry at 6:30 p.m., ensuring you’re settled before the lights go up. The venue, located at 99 Monmouth Street in Red Bank, is known for its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, making it an ideal setting for a film that relies so much on mood and music.
The event is part of a broader 40th‑anniversary tour that the three actors announced on social media earlier this year. The tour will visit a handful of select theaters across the country, each offering a similar blend of screening and live conversation. It’s clear the organizers want to reach both longtime fans who grew up with the film and a new generation discovering it for the first time.
One of the most iconic lines from the movie—“I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve”—is used in the promotional material to highlight the event’s theme. The reunion is aimed at anyone who still feels that pull of childhood friendships, the sense that a summer adventure can change the rest of your life.
If you’re a fan of nostalgic cinema, a collector of movie memorabilia, or simply someone who loves a good story about growing up, this night at the Count Basie Center is shaping up to be a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience. With the original cast back together, the film on the big screen, and exclusive VIP options, the Stand By Me anniversary celebration promises to be more than a movie night—it’s a moment to relive the magic of an era that still matters today.