Major Streaming Releases This Week: ‘Severance’ S2, ‘Castlevania: Nocturne’ S2, ‘XO, Kitty’ S2 Arrive (Jan. 17, 2025)

As the calendar turns to the week of January 17, 2025, major streaming platforms are set to debut a wave of highly anticipated series and films, offering viewers a diverse selection ranging from critically acclaimed thrillers to animated epics, young adult dramas, compelling documentaries, and inspiring sports stories.

This period marks significant returns for popular franchises and introduces new narratives exploring contemporary issues. Leading the charge are new seasons of fan favorites across Netflix and Apple TV+, alongside a notable limited series delving into the world of online content creation and a feature film based on a remarkable true story.

The Return to Lumon: “Severance, Season 2”

Among the week’s most prominent arrivals is the second season of the acclaimed workplace thriller, “Severance,” which premieres exclusively on Apple TV+ on January 17, 2025. The series, lauded for its unique premise and execution, delves into the lives of employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a surgical procedure to separate their work memories from their personal lives. The new season continues to explore the mysteries surrounding Lumon’s “Innites” and the consequences of their severed existence.

Industry analysts and critics have described the return of “Severance” as “well worth the wait,” indicating that the sophomore season maintains the narrative depth and suspense that captivated audiences in its initial run. Viewers can anticipate further revelations about the corporate dystopia and the fate of its protagonists as the story unfolds.

Love and Drama Continue: “XO, Kitty, Season 2”

Netflix subscribers can look forward to the return of the popular young adult romantic dramedy “XO, Kitty.” The second season of the “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” spin-off debuts globally on the platform on January 16, 2025. The series centers on Kitty Song Covey, the younger sister of Lara Jean, as she navigates her own romantic entanglements and cultural adjustments while attending a boarding school in Seoul.

Season 2 promises to deepen the complexities of Kitty’s relationships, with early indications pointing towards the continued exploration of love triangle dynamics. The show capitalizes on the established fanbase of the successful film franchise while charting its own course with new characters and storylines, catering to viewers who enjoy heartfelt narratives about identity and first loves.

Epic Animation Continues: “Castlevania: Nocturne, Season 2”

Also premiering on Netflix on January 16, 2025, is the second season of the animated dark fantasy series “Castlevania: Nocturne.” A continuation of the acclaimed “Castlevania” animated universe, this iteration shifts focus to the French Revolution era, following Richter Belmont, a descendant of the legendary vampire hunters.

The new season sees the return of key characters Richter Belmont, voiced by Edward Bluemel, and Annette, voiced by Thuso Mbedu. They are joined by the fan-favorite character Alucard, voiced by James Callis, promising an expansion of the series’ scope and stakes as the fight against supernatural forces intensifies. The show continues to draw upon the rich lore of the popular video game franchise, delivering action-packed sequences and intricate character development.

Examining Online Life: “An Update on Our Family”

The streaming landscape also features significant non-fiction content, including the limited three-part series “An Update on Our Family.” From acclaimed filmmaker Rachel Mason, this series undertakes a critical examination of the phenomenon of family vlogging and the complex ethical questions it raises.

A central focus of the series is the highly publicized 2020 controversy involving YouTubers Myka and James Stauffer, who faced widespread criticism regarding their decision to rehome their adopted son. The documentary promises a nuanced look at the pressures, performativity, and potential consequences inherent in broadcasting private family life for public consumption, offering insights from various perspectives on the event and the broader vlogging community.

An Inspiring Sports Journey: “Unstoppable”

Adding to the diverse offerings is the sports drama film “Unstoppable.” This movie tells the remarkable true story of wrestler Anthony Robles, who overcame significant physical challenges to become a champion.

The film features a notable cast, including Jharrel Jerome as Anthony Robles, alongside Bobby Cannavale and Jennifer Lopez. “Unstoppable” explores themes of perseverance, determination, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity, aiming to deliver an inspiring narrative for audiences interested in real-life triumphs and the world of competitive sports.

This week’s streaming releases provide a robust selection across genres, ensuring that subscribers have ample new content to explore, from returning favorites deepening established storylines to new projects tackling compelling real-world subjects and inspiring biographies.