Your Weekly Entertainment Rundown: September 2025 First Week Picks
As September 2025 unfolds, streaming platforms are poised to deliver a veritable feast of new content, ranging from eagerly anticipated television series and blockbuster films to fresh musical releases and groundbreaking video games. This week promises a rich tapestry of entertainment, highlighted by a spiritual successor to the beloved comedy “The Office,” a visually stunning live-action Disney adaptation, the annual MTV Video Music Awards, and a highly awaited sequel to an indie gaming phenomenon.
New Series: From Paper Trails to Covert Operations (Sept. 1-7)
“The Paper” (Peacock): A New Office Horizon
The acclaimed documentary crew that once chronicled the mundane yet hilarious lives of Dunder Mifflin employees in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is back. This time, they turn their lenses on a small, struggling newspaper in Toledo, Ohio, in the much-anticipated Peacock original, “The Paper.” Fans of “The Office” will delight in a familiar face: Oscar Martinez, portrayed by Oscar Nunez, appears as an accountant at the Toledo paper, providing a direct link to the beloved NBC comedy. The series, which also stars Domhnall Gleeson (“The Patient”) and Sabrina Impacciatore (“White Lotus” Season 2), promises a fresh take on workplace comedy. All 10 episodes are scheduled to drop on Monday, offering a full week of binge-watching potential.
“NCIS: Tony & Ziva” (Paramount+): An Agent Couple’s Escape
Ten years after Ziva David’s emotional departure from “NCIS,” fan favorites Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) and Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) reunite for their own spin-off, “NCIS: Tony & Ziva,” premiering Monday on Paramount+. The series finds the iconic “Tiva” duo living a seemingly peaceful life in France, co-parenting their daughter. However, their quiet existence is shattered when they become the targets of a dangerous conspiracy, forcing the former special agents back into action and on the run. This sixth installment in the sprawling “NCIS” universe marks a significant departure from its procedural roots, blending action, drama, romance, and comedy into a compelling narrative that will captivate long-time fans and new viewers alike.
“Task” (HBO/Max): A Thriller from the Streets of Pennsylvania
From the acclaimed creator of “Mare of Easttown” comes “Task,” a gritty cat-and-mouse thriller debuting Thursday on HBO and streaming on Max. Mark Ruffalo (“Avengers” franchise) takes on the lead role of an FBI agent in Pennsylvania tasked with spearheading a specialized unit to investigate a series of violent robberies plaguing the region. Co-starring Tom Pelphrey (“Ozark”), the series is expected to deliver the intense character-driven drama and intricate plotting that earned its predecessor widespread critical acclaim.
New Movies: Aloha, Bromance, and Cinematic Satire (Sept. 1-7)
“Lilo & Stitch” (Disney+): A Billion-Dollar Animated Classic Reimagined
Disney’s latest live-action adaptation, “Lilo & Stitch,” arrives on Disney+ on Wednesday, following an astounding theatrical run. The film, which retells the heartwarming story of a lonely 6-year-old Native Hawaiian girl who befriends an alien outcast, defied expectations by earning over $1 billion at the global box office. Domestically, it surpassed the entire run of “The Little Mermaid” live-action remake in just 17 days. While initial critical reviews, including one from the Associated Press, noted “weird temporal portals, a Jet Ski chase and an overwrought conclusion,” audiences flocked to the spectacle, making it one of the year’s biggest hits.
“Friendship” (HBO/Max): A Quirky Dive into Modern Masculinity
Andrew DeYoung’s highly anticipated directorial debut, “Friendship,” makes its streaming premiere on HBO Max on Saturday, September 6, just one day after its HBO debut. The feature film offers a biting satirical and humorous look at modern masculinity and the complexities of male loneliness, seamlessly weaving in elements of horror and the surreal. The Associated Press lauded the film for showcasing Tim Robinson (“I Think You Should Leave”) at his awkward best and Paul Rudd (“Ant-Man” franchise) at his charismatic peak, making it a must-watch for those seeking a quirky yet profound exploration of bromances.
New Music: Avant-Garde Pop and Glam Rock Legacies (Sept. 1-7)
David Byrne, “Who Is the Sky?” (New Album)
At 73, the indefatigable Talking Heads frontman David Byrne continues to push artistic boundaries with his new album, “Who Is the Sky?”, set for release on Friday. This collection of avant-garde pop promises to delight long-time fans of his innovative band and new listeners alike, showcasing the enduring joy and experimental spirit that define Byrne’s illustrious career.
“AngelHeaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T. Rex” (Streaming Documentary)
Dive into the flamboyant world of 1970s glam rock with “AngelHeaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T. Rex,” streaming Friday, September 5. This new documentary celebrates Marc Bolan, the visionary pioneer of the movement and frontman of T. Rex, a figure whose larger-than-life persona left an indelible mark on music history. Featuring rare footage, the film is an immersive experience that will leave viewers with an overwhelming desire for sequined attire.
2025 MTV Video Music Awards (CBS/Paramount+): A Night of Musical Mayhem
The annual spectacle of the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards is upon us. Broadcasting live from the UBS Arena just outside New York City, the three-hour extravaganza will air on CBS and stream concurrently on Paramount+ on Sunday, September 7, at 8 p.m. Eastern and 5 p.m. Pacific. Lady Gaga, a perennial force in music and performance, leads the nominations, promising an evening of her signature “Mayhem” and unforgettable moments.
New Video Games: Bug-Filled Worlds and Paper-Crafted Adventures (Sept. 1-7)
“Hollow Knight: Silksong” (Multi-Platform): A Long-Awaited Indie Return
After years of eager anticipation since its 2019 announcement, “Hollow Knight: Silksong,” the sequel to the beloved 2017 indie sensation “Hollow Knight,” finally arrives on Thursday. The original 2D exploration game garnered millions of sales and critical acclaim, becoming an “indie legend.” This follow-up maintains the enchanting essence of its predecessor: navigating a lush, vibrant world teeming with formidable bugs and challenges. Players will control Hornet, a princess whose acrobatic prowess sets her apart from the original hero, while still enjoying the challenging and tightly focused combat that fans adore. “Silksong” will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
“Hirogami” (PS5/PC): The Art of Origami Meets Digital Defense
From Bandai Namco Studios Singapore, known for their work on bruising fighters like “Tekken” and “Soul Calibur,” comes a surprisingly delicate new venture: “Hirogami.” Releasing Wednesday on PlayStation 5 and PC, this game stars Hiro, a master of origami with the unique ability to transform into various creatures — from a soaring bird to a barrier-smashing armadillo and a high-jumping frog. Accompanied by a mellow soundtrack featuring traditional Japanese instruments, Hiro must defend his beautifully paper-crafted 3D world from “deadly digital invaders.” “Hirogami” offers a serene yet engaging experience, challenging players to master the art of folding to protect their paper realm.
