Netflix is rolling out a packed slate of releases for the week of September 15 to 21, 2025, promising something for every kind of viewer—whether you’re in the mood for pulse-pounding horror, heartfelt drama, or a fresh twist on crime. The streaming giant’s latest lineup features the long-awaited arrival of 28 Years Later, the return of beloved series like Heartland, and the debut of the darkly intriguing limited series Black Rabbit starring Jason Bateman and Jude Law.
Arguably the most buzzed-about release is 28 Years Later, the third installment in the franchise that began with Danny Boyle’s cult classic 28 Days Later in 2002. According to Filmibeat, this new chapter lands on Netflix worldwide on Saturday, September 20, after opening in theaters on June 20 under Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Releasing. Fans have been waiting years for this return—early discussions about a sequel started soon after 28 Weeks Later hit screens in 2007, but rights disputes and creative disagreements kept the project in limbo for more than a decade. The breakthrough came in 2024, when producer Andrew Macdonald reacquired the rights and struck a deal with Sony Pictures to support not just one, but multiple sequels.
The creative team behind 28 Years Later reads like a reunion of the franchise’s original architects. Danny Boyle returns to direct, with Alex Garland penning the script and Anthony Dod Mantle handling cinematography—each instrumental in forging the gritty, kinetic style that made the first film a genre touchstone. Cillian Murphy, who starred in the original, is back as an executive producer, lending the film added credibility and continuity. The new cast brings together Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and newcomer Alfie Williams in a story set nearly three decades after the rage virus first escaped from a biological weapons lab.
The official synopsis, as reported by What’s On Netflix, sets the stage: “It’s been almost three decades since the rage virus escaped a biological weapons laboratory, and now, still in a ruthlessly enforced quarantine, some have found ways to exist amidst the infected. One such group of survivors lives on a small island connected to the mainland by a single, heavily-defended causeway. When one of the group leaves the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders, and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.”
For those who like to plan ahead, there’s even more good news: 28 Years Later was filmed back-to-back with its follow-up, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, which is already slated for release in January 2026. This approach, as Filmibeat notes, mirrors the strategy of other blockbuster franchises, ensuring continuity and keeping fans engaged without long waits between installments. The anticipation is palpable, and early feedback suggests this is shaping up to be a “love-it or hate-it kind of movie,” according to What’s On Netflix. With such strong creative pedigree and a passionate fanbase, it’s no wonder the franchise’s return is making waves.
But zombies aren’t the only thing stalking Netflix this week. Thursday, September 18, marks the debut of Black Rabbit, a limited series that reunites Jason Bateman with the streaming service after his acclaimed turn in Ozark. As reported by What’s On Netflix, Bateman stars alongside Jude Law in a tense, character-driven crime drama. The story follows the owner of a New York City bar who finds his life upended when his brother reemerges, bringing a host of dangerous complications. The series is helmed by showrunners Zach Baylin and Kate Susman, with a supporting cast that includes Abbey Lee, Dagmara Dominczyk, Odessa Young, and Troy Kotsur. Early word from the team at What’s On Netflix is that Black Rabbit “meets the high expectations”—a promising sign for viewers craving sophisticated, adult storytelling.
Meanwhile, fans of long-running family sagas can breathe a sigh of relief: Heartland returns to Netflix with its 17th season on Monday, September 15. The Canadian ranch drama, which airs on CBC, had faced uncertainty over its streaming future earlier this summer, but Netflix renewed its license and will now carry the ten-episode season that originally aired in late 2023. The new season picks up where the previous one left off, with Amy surprised by Mallory’s return—both heavily pregnant and accompanied by a wild horse. Jack and Tim face new competition, and Lou finds herself up against a familiar opponent in her campaign. As What’s On Netflix notes, fans are already hoping that Netflix will pick up season 18 (which aired last year) and the upcoming season 19, set to debut later in 2025.
Of course, the week’s offerings don’t end there. Monday brings a fresh batch of content, including Call the Midwife Season 14, Ice Road: Vengeance (2025), Nashville Seasons 1-6, S.W.A.T. Season 8, and Terror Comes Knocking: The Marcella Borges Story (2025). Tuesday sees the premiere of Rebel Royals: An Unlikely Love Story, a new limited series, and Mobius (Season 1), which will roll out new episodes weekly. Wednesday brings the Polish period comedy 1670 (Season 2), Matchroom: The Greatest Showmen (Season 1), and the culinary competition Next Gen Chef (Season 1), all Netflix Originals.
Thursday’s roster is especially robust, with the Netflix Original The BA***DS of Bollywood (Season 1), the animated favorite Little Angel (Volume 6), the hotel-themed comedy Platonic: Blue Moon Hotel (Season 1), and the relationship drama Same Day with Someone (2025). Friday, September 19, is a bonanza for animation fans, with a collection of Anpanman films spanning from 2005 to 2019, as well as the debut of Billionaires Bunker (Season 1), the 2023 thriller Cobweb, horror anthology Haunted Hotel (Season 1), romantic drama She Said Maybe (2025), and legal drama A Bright Lawyer (2024).
Saturday, aside from 28 Years Later, also features the premiere of Mafia: Most Wanted (Season 1), a Netflix Original, while Sunday rounds out the week with new episodes of Inside: USA (Season 1).
It’s a dizzying variety of choices, and Netflix is clearly betting big on both nostalgia and novelty to keep viewers tuned in. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan eager to see what new terrors await in the 28 Days Later universe, a lover of family drama, or simply looking for a fresh binge, this week’s lineup offers a little bit of everything. As always, Netflix promises to keep subscribers updated with daily additions and a comprehensive Friday roundup. In a crowded streaming landscape, it’s a reminder that there’s still plenty of excitement left to discover each week—if you know where to look.
