A Week of Top Entertainment: CMAT’s New Album, Colman & Cumberbatch in ‘The Roses’, and Aronofsky’s ‘Caught Stealing’

The cultural landscape is buzzing this week with a diverse array of top-tier entertainment, offering something for every taste. From highly anticipated music releases and compelling cinematic debuts to insightful interviews and unique live performances, the coming days promise a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Music Scene Heats Up with CMAT’s “Euro-Country”

Irish singer-songwriter CMAT, also known as Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, has released her much-anticipated third album, “Euro-Country,” on August 29, 2025. Garnering critical acclaim and five-star reviews from publications like The Guardian and NME, the album explores themes of politics, self-worth, and societal shifts through CMAT’s signature blend of country-infused pop, sharp wit, and poignant self-examination. Having already captivated audiences at festivals worldwide, including a memorable set at Glastonbury, CMAT is solidifying her position as a formidable talent in the global music scene.

Cinematic Offerings: “The Roses” and “Caught Stealing” Lead the Pack

On the film front, the week is marked by the release of “The Roses,” a dark comedy starring Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch. This modern reimagining of the 1989 film “The War of the Roses” delves into the escalating, darkly comic marital discord between a seemingly perfect couple when careers and ambitions clash. The film, directed by Jay Roach from a screenplay by Tony McNamara, boasts an all-star cast including Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon, promising a sharp and entertaining look at relationship dynamics.

Adding to the cinematic excitement is Darren Aronofsky’s latest directorial effort, “Caught Stealing,” starring Austin Butler. Based on Charlie Huston’s novel, the film is a gritty, fast-paced New York crime caper set in the late 1990s. Butler portrays a bartender inadvertently drawn into the city’s criminal underworld, with critics praising the film’s sharp writing, Butler’s magnetic performance, and Aronofsky’s return to form with a more commercially accessible, yet still intense, narrative.

Belgian directors Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne also present their latest drama, “Young Mothers,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and has seen theatrical releases in Belgium and France. The film offers a beautifully observed study of motherhood, following five young mothers in a shelter, and has garnered praise for its quiet power and compassionate portrayal of vulnerability and resilience.

Radio, Performances, and Cultural Conversations

Beyond film and music, the week offers unique auditory experiences. Artist Tai Shani’s radio broadcast, featuring contributions from Brian Eno and Maxine Peake, explores dreams for alternate futures, providing a thought-provoking listen for those seeking deeper cultural commentary.

For live performance enthusiasts, Melbourne’s ten-piece spaghetti western ensemble, The Counterfeit, will be at the Tanks Arts Centre on September 5. They are set to deliver a reimagined performance of iconic 1960s and 70s spaghetti western soundtracks, promising a journey to dusty landscapes and wild west showdowns.

Additionally, Syrian rapper and poet Omar Offendum is highlighted for his contributions to conversations about identity and culture, including discussions on the changing identity of Little Syria in Manhattan. His work continues to bridge Arab roots with American youth culture, making him a significant voice in contemporary discourse.

This week’s entertainment lineup showcases a vibrant mix of established artists and compelling new stories, reinforcing the depth and breadth of the current cultural scene. From chart-topping albums to critically acclaimed films and captivating live acts, audiences have a wealth of options to explore.