September 2025 has become an unexpectedly thrilling month for movie lovers in the UK and beyond, as streaming platforms unleash a tidal wave of fresh releases, cult hits, and blockbuster sequels, all vying for space on viewers’ watchlists. Among the most buzzed-about arrivals is 28 Years Later, the much-anticipated continuation of Danny Boyle’s iconic zombie franchise, now available for home viewing after a successful theatrical run. But that’s just the beginning: a record-breaking Disney remake, indie darlings, and star-powered dramas are all landing within days of each other, leaving fans giddy—and a little overwhelmed—by the sheer volume of choices.
According to Radio Times, 28 Years Later marks the first chapter in a new trilogy from director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland, reuniting two creative forces whose original film, 28 Days Later, revolutionized the zombie genre back in 2002. This latest installment picks up 28 years after the events of 28 Weeks Later, with the United Kingdom still under strict quarantine as the rest of Europe celebrates the eradication of the Rage virus. The plot centers on Isla (Jodie Comer), her husband Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), and their son Spike (Alfie Williams), as they navigate a society forever changed by catastrophe. Ralph Fiennes joins the cast as Dr. Ian Kelson, adding gravitas to a story that not only expands the lore—introducing new threats like the mysterious “Alphas”—but also sets the tone for two more sequels, with the next chapter expected in 2026.
Fans and critics alike have praised the film for breathing new life into the franchise, with the reunion of Boyle and Garland singled out as a highlight. The performances of the lead cast, particularly Comer and Fiennes, have drawn acclaim, even as the film’s explosive final act has sparked debate among die-hard devotees. As Radio Times notes, “28 Years Later has renewed the franchise and developed the world further while focusing on new core characters.” The movie’s three-star review hints at both its strengths and the divided opinions it has generated—a testament to the passionate fanbase the series has cultivated over more than two decades.
After its successful cinema run earlier in 2025, 28 Years Later is now available to buy or rent on streaming platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV+, with rental prices starting at £4.99 and digital purchase at £13.99. For those who prefer a physical collection, the film is also out on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD. This accessibility ensures that anyone who missed the big-screen experience—or simply wants to relive the tension and terror from the comfort of their sofa—can dive right in.
If that weren’t enough to keep horror fans occupied, September’s streaming schedule is packed with a diverse array of new and returning favorites, as detailed by Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. Disney+ leads the charge with its live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, which dropped on September 3. Not only is this adaptation a nostalgic treat for families, but it also holds the distinction of being the only U.S. film to gross $1 billion at the box office in 2025. “Families will stream it non-stop,” Variety predicts, noting the film’s irresistible blend of heart and spectacle, now available for endless home replays.
For those seeking a more dramatic or cerebral experience, Apple TV+ debuted Highest 2 Lowest on September 5. Directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, this tense moral drama is a New York-set reimagining of Kurosawa’s classic, and it arrives with a wave of festival buzz and awards speculation. “If you liked tense moral dramas, this one will keep you talking,” writes Variety, highlighting the film’s explosive third act and critical acclaim from Cannes.
Meanwhile, HBO Max is making waves with two A24 releases that break the usual indie-to-streaming pipeline. On September 5, Friendship—a dark comedy starring Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd—landed on the platform after building a cult following during its spring box-office run. The film’s off-kilter humor has divided critics and audiences alike, with Variety noting, “You’ll either laugh or cringe.” Just a week later, on September 12, Alex Garland’s Warfare arrived, offering a real-time combat thriller starring Will Poulter and Joseph Quinn. The film’s intense, edge-of-your-seat pacing makes it an ideal late-night watch, especially for fans of Garland’s previous cerebral work.
Netflix, never one to be left behind, added its own high-profile entry with the two-part documentary aka Charlie Sheen on September 10. Promising “raw interviews and new personal details,” the documentary delves into the actor’s tumultuous journey through fame and recovery, providing both nostalgia and fresh insight for viewers who crave depth and candid storytelling.
The month’s streaming bonanza continues with Apple TV+’s All of You, released on September 26. Co-written and starring Emmy winner Brett Goldstein, this rom-com blends sharp satire with witty British banter, centered on a matchmaking-service premise that’s sure to spark group-chat debates. If you’re a fan of clever dialogue and modern romance, this one is not to be missed.
Rounding out the September slate is Hulu’s adaptation of Walter Mosley’s novel The Man in My Basement, which also premiered on September 26. A literary mystery with festival pedigree, the film invites viewers to unravel its layered plot twists and ponder its deeper themes—perfect for those who enjoy a thriller that rewards repeat viewings and careful attention.
What’s behind this sudden flood of high-profile streaming releases? As Variety observes, “streamers are dumping big theatrical hits and buzzy indies into the same week, forcing you to decide what to stream first.” This strategic clustering not only maximizes subscriber engagement but also reflects the changing dynamics of the film industry, where streaming premieres can rival or even surpass the cultural impact of traditional cinema releases. For viewers, it’s a golden age of choice—if a slightly overwhelming one.
With so many options, how should viewers prioritize their September watchlists? The answer, according to Variety, is to “pick one: family comfort, tense drama, or A24 oddity—rotate nights to span moods.” Whether you’re craving the adrenaline rush of post-apocalyptic survival in 28 Years Later, the feel-good nostalgia of Lilo & Stitch, or the quirky energy of Friendship, there’s truly something for everyone.
As the dust settles on this unprecedented streaming surge, one thing is clear: September 2025 will be remembered as the month that redefined how—and where—we watch movies. The only real challenge? Finding enough hours in the day to enjoy them all.
