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It might not have the sparkle it previously possessed, but Max (formerly HBO Max) still hosts some of the finest television programs from the past 25 years, ranging from The Sopranos and The Wire to Game of Thrones and The Leftovers.
Max has also entered the realm of creating original content, featuring critically acclaimed shows like Hacks, Station Eleven, and The Staircase (with the assumption that the owl was the culprit!). So, even if you’ve exhausted all the HBO classics, there’s still more content to indulge in.
Whether you’ve been a devoted fan of the “it’s not TV” cable network or a newcomer to Max trying to navigate where to begin, the shows listed below will offer you a plethora of visual delights.
In search of more suggestions? Check out WIRED’s compilation of the finest TV shows on Netflix, the top TV shows on Amazon Prime, the leading TV shows on Disney+, and the supreme TV shows on Hulu.
House of the Dragon
Though expecting any series to mirror the cultural phenomenon that was Game of Thrones would be preposterous, House of the Dragon does a commendable job. Especially for those who desired more dragon-centric scenes in its predecessor. This prequel series, taking place roughly 200 years before Game of Thrones, delves into the turmoil within House Targaryen and the commencement of that royal family’s decline. Similar to GoT, there’s an ample amount of explicit content, violence, betrayals, family conflicts, and dragons to fill the void of those Sunday evenings, and occasionally, dimly lit scenes to incite audience emotions.
Ren Faire
Imagine if Logan Roy was overseeing a Renaissance fair? It might resemble a lot like Ren Faire. This unexpectedly enthralling three-part documentary miniseries portrays the drama that unfolds when George Coulam, the founder of the Texas Renaissance Festival (America’s largest Renaissance fair), announces his retirement. While one might expect the festival’s general manager to be the natural successor, a prominent kettle corn vendor and former elephant trainer emerge to challenge the traditional notion of succession. Who would have thought that the Renaissance faire industry could be so ruthless?
Fantasmas
Attention all Los Espookys enthusiasts: Julio Torres brings you a new series. And yes, it’s just as outlandish, absurd, and comedic as its horror-comedy forerunner. In this instance, Torres portrays a fictionalized version of himself wandering through New York City in search of a lost earring. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of peculiar characters, featuring guest appearances from the likes of Steve Buscemi, Emma Stone, Ziwe, Paul Dano, Bowen Yang, and Aidy Bryant.
The Jinx
The Jinx is as unsettling as it is engrossing. Director Andrew Jarecki’s initial encounter with the enigma of Robert Durst was through All Good Things, the 2010 film starring Ryan Gosling and Kirsten Dunst, which fictionalized Durst’s life. However, when Durst witnessed Jarecki’s interpretation of that project, he proposed a conversation, giving rise to this true-crime docuseries that premiered in 2015—and eventually led to renewed accusations against Durst. Without revealing too much, let’s just say that the phrase “killed them all, of course” will linger in your thoughts indefinitely. The Jinx Part Two, which debuted in April, resumes the narrative after Durst uttered that chilling statement.
Hacks
Jean Smart has always been a luminary, so it’s fitting that she portrays a luminary in Hacks. The Max series made its debut in 2021—shortly after the launch of the streaming service itself—and swiftly became one of its early successes. Now in its third season, which premiered in early May, the show traces the evolution of the dynamic between the renowned Las Vegas performer Deborah Vance (Smart) and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder, daughter of SNL icon Laraine Newman), a skeptical young writer dealing with Hollywood backlash following a viral tweet. What begins as a forced “mentoring” eventually blossoms into a compassionate and respectful friendship where both women realize that they have something to teach one another.
The Sympathizer
Fans saddened by the conclusion of The Americans will discover much to appreciate in The Sympathizer, a collaboration by renowned directors Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar. Adapted from Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize–winning book, this limited series chronicles the adventures of the Captain (Hoa Xuande), a police chief in the former Saigon who also works as a communist undercover agent. Subsequently, he relocates to the United States, continuing to gather information for the Viet Cong. Despite its unconventional plot for a dark humor show, that is precisely its essence—particularly in the presence of Robert Downey Jr. The Iron Man actor excels as a menacing antagonist whom viewers love to despise in each of the four roles he portrays.
Conan O’Brien Needs to Depart
Conan O’Brien exhibits his comedic skills in this spinoff of his hit podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. Contrasting the podcast where O’Brien converses with celebrities, this global series showcases the former late-night host surprising ordinary individuals he has previously featured. Additionally serving as a travelogue, he uses his time in these remote locations (such as Norway, Thailand, Argentina, and Ireland) to absorb the local cuisine, traditions, and lifestyles. The downside? The series consists of only four episodes, debuting on April 18, so it’s recommended to enjoy every moment until the next season arrives. On May 15, Max announced the renewal of the show.
Jerrod Carmichael Authentic Program
One might speculate that the title “Authentic Program” was somewhat ironic, considering this documentary series—where comedian Jerrod Carmichael claims to be trying to “self-Truman Show” himself—is far more personal and genuine than the label suggests. Carmichael’s objective is to be as transparent as possible about his life and challenges while constantly under the camera’s gaze. The show’s success can be gauged by the discomfort some viewers may experience witnessing his narrative unfold, making it a truly compelling watch.
The Authority
In The Authority, Kate Winslet delivers a classic Kate Winslet performance: portraying a cold, strategic, and highly unlikable yet captivating character. The Titanic luminary assumes the role of Chancellor Elena Vernham, a ruthless leader witnessing a decline in her authority. Seeking advice and companionship, she partners with Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts), her water diviner, only to discover the ex-soldier harbors ambitious aspirations of his own.
The Women on the Bus
It comes as no surprise that an election cycle brings a surge in political content, evident in the launch of this new limited series. Inspired by co-creator Amy Chozick’s memoir, Chasing Hillary: Ten Years, Two Presidential Campaigns, and One Intact Glass Ceiling, recounting her decade trailing Hillary Clinton’s presidential bid. The show revolves around a fictional political campaign, spotlighting the bonds formed among four female journalists on the trail of the next president, grounded in real-life events and contemporary relevance.
Tokyo Vice
In 1993, journalist Jake Adelstein, the first non-Japanese staff writer at Yomiuri Shimbun in Tokyo, chronicles his experiences working for the newspaper for twelve years. Nearly three decades later, in 2022, Max transforms Adelstein’s life into a gripping crime series. The young protagonist (played by Ansel Elgort) establishes close ties with key Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department members, delving deep into the city’s underworld of violence and corruption. The series has wrapped its explosive second season, with all episodes available for streaming.
Homicide in Boston: Origins, Outburst & Reckoning
Is Boston the most racially prejudiced city in America? Director Jason Hehir, a native of Beantown and the Emmy-winning mind behind The Last Dance, posits this question in his three-part documentary series.that delves into the homicide of Carol Stuart. During the autumn of 1989, Chuck Stewart dialed 911 to report that he and his wife, who was expecting a child, had been hijacked by a Black individual, who fired at both of them. Carol did not survive, but Charles did. This incident sparked an extensive search by the authorities across the city, with a limited lead being the complexion of the alleged attacker. Eventually, Willie Bennett—a 39-year-old who had been apprehended on unrelated charges—emerged as the primary suspect and was widely presumed guilty, including by the media. However, an unexpected witness came forward to unveil the truth surrounding the crime. This series, blending elements of a true-crime enigma and a social-justice exposé, excels in uncovering how the transgressions of a city’s past can linger for decades to come.
True Detective: Night Country
Did you follow our suggestion and watched Deadloch and now craving something similar but significantly darker and more eerie? We have the ideal solution: True Detective: Night Country. To be candid, this collection has had its fair share of challenges. Following a hugely successful initial season that caused a meltdown of Max’s forerunner, HBO Go, and sparked widespread discussions about the circular nature of time, the subsequent seasons of the series failed to sustain the same level of intrigue. Night Country marks a return to its origins. Featuring Jodie Foster and Kali Reis as a duo of investigators striving to uncover a conspiracy and unravel a perplexing sequence of killings. Enigmatic symbols also play a role. Admittedly, this narrative mirrors the premise of previous True Detective seasons, yet this particular one introduces frozen corpses. Just like its precursors, the less you know initially, the more captivating the journey. Let it draw you in, and hold onto that intrigue.
Curb Your Enthusiasm
“I managed as best I could in a scenario where a person despises human interaction yet finds themselves entangled in it,” Larry David expresses in the trailer for the twelfth—and final (yes, indeed)—season of Curb Your Enthusiasm. David—the genuine comedian and the semi-fictionalized persona he portrays on screen—has intermittently entered and exited our lives for over two decades now. With each new season of Curb, he consistently surpassed viewer expectations. Despite cocreating Seinfeld, one of the most groundbreaking television shows of all time, it’s Curb Your Enthusiasm that will forever be his defining hallmark. Quite an achievement for a societal provocateur. Quite, quite, remarkable.
Julia
Over the nearly two decades following her passing in 2004, Julia Child has been immortalized in the film Julie & Julia (2009) and was the focal point in the documentary Julia (2021) by Julie Cohen and Betsy West. In 2022, Sarah Lancashire from Happy Valley assumed the role of Child to showcase the early stages of her journey as a culinary author and groundbreaking TV chef, resulting in a delectable blend of drama and comedy. Both seasons are presently available for streaming.
Rap Sh!t
Issa Rae, the mastermind behind Insecure, presents this uproarious comedy that follows Mia Knight (KaMillion) and Shawna Clark (Aida Osman), former high school companions and aspiring rappers endeavoring to make a mark on the music scene in Miami. Eventually, they opt to unite forces, establish a group, double their odds of success, and exploit social media as their launchpad—with varied outcomes. While the focus of the series is music, fundamentally it delves into the boundless possibilities of youthful vigor and the splendor of female camaraderie.
The Gilded Age
While it may not have achieved the same level of impact as Downton Abbey, Julian Fellowes’ latest historical drama is equally luxurious—and truly hit its stride in its second season. In this instance, the narrative shifts to the United States to unveil the clash between the longstanding aristocrats of New York City and the nouveau-riche individuals striving to infiltrate their ranks. The storyline also boasts the classic Upstairs, Downstairs dramatic flair that Fellowes is renowned for, with the staff members catering to Manhattan’s elite playing a significant role in the tale. Amidst it all is Marian Brook (Louisa Jacobson), a young woman navigating a world she only tangentially belongs to. A stellar ensemble featuring Christine Baranski, Carrie Coon, and Cynthia Nixon enhances the viewing experience.
Starstruck
Jessie (Rose Matafeo)a young woman from New Zealand in her twenties, trying to make ends meet working as a nanny in London. On a New Year’s Eve, she finds herself in a drunken one-night stand only to wake up and realize she had slept with Tom Kapoor (Nikesh Patel), a prominent movie star. What started as a casual encounter evolves into something more meaningful over time in this delightful romantic comedy series, reminiscent of Notting Hill—with a twist of intoxication.
Our Flag Means Death
Rhys Darby and Taika Waititi shine in their elements as two distinct pirates who cross paths in the 1700s. Darby takes on the role of Stede Bonnet, a fictionalized depiction of a real aristocrat who, in the midst of a midlife crisis, abandons his family to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure. Meanwhile, Waititi portrays the notorious Blackbeard, who becomes intrigued by Bonnet and eventually fosters an unexpected mentorship that transforms into a comical gay pirate tale—one that surprises and entertains.
How to With John Wilson
In a scenario where Steven Wright and Nathan Fielder collaborate on a YouTube channel dedicated to instructional content like erecting scaffolds and wrapping furniture in plastic, you’d get something akin to How to With John Wilson. It’s no wonder Fielder is an executive producer of this series, where Wilson delves into the art of navigating universal predicaments such as engaging in small talk, blending earnestness with deadpan humor to deliver a uniquely intriguing and bizarre viewing experience.
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty
John C. Reilly portrays Lakers owner Jerry Buss in a performance that echoes his Boogie Nights character, Reed Rothchild. This high-energy sports drama, based on Jeff Pearlman’s book Showtime, delves into the dominant era of the Los Angeles Lakers during the ’80s, thanks to figures like owner Buss and newcomer Magic Johnson (Quincy Isaiah). Despite critical acclaim, Winning Time has oddly remained relatively unnoticed, leading to its recent cancellation by HBO. Nevertheless, it stands as a prime example of period storytelling and gripping sports drama.
Project Greenlight: A New Generation
In 2001, shortly after their Oscar success with Good Will Hunting, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck launched Project Greenlight, a competition offering aspiring filmmakers the chance to create a real film. This birthed Project Greenlight, a reality series documenting the challenging journey of the selected filmmakers. Now, over two decades later, new mentors Issa Rae, Kumail Nanjiani, and Gina Prince-Bythewood enter the fray, finding themselves entangled in a chaotic revival of the contest. The resulting film, Gray Matter, is also available for streaming on Max, inviting viewers to draw their own conclusions.
Full Circle
When a teenager vanishes in the heart of New York City, the intricate lives and intricate lies of seemingly unrelated individuals become intertwined in this complex crime series crafted by filmmaker Ed Solomon (Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure). What initially appears as a simple narrative of bereaved parents (Claire Danes and Timothy Olyphant) coping with their son’s abduction spirals into a web of deception and suspense under the direction of Steven Soderbergh, who helms all six episodes of this limited series, where reality constantly shifts.
Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York
This four-part documentary series, adapted from Elon Green’s book Last Call: A True Story of Love, Lust and Murder in Queer New York, explores a string of murders targeting gay men in the early ’90s. Set against the backdrop of escalating homophobia during the AIDS crisis, director Anthony Coronna’s documentary delves into the lives of the victims’ families and LGBTQ+ activists who rallied for justice amidst the turmoil.
The Other Two
Chasedreams (Case Walker) is a 13-year-old online symbol whose rapid rise to global fame has captured the complete attention of his mother (Molly Shannon). Chase’s older siblings, however, are encountering much more difficulty in achieving success. Brother Cary (Drew Tarver) is an ambitious actor struggling to secure even the role of “Man at Party Who Detects Odor,” while sister Brooke (Heléne Yorke) is simply attempting to determine her identity and aspirations. All three seasons of the show, which was jointly created by former SNL head scripters Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider, are ready to be devoured.
Barry
Nobody was overly impressed when HBO revealed that Bill Hader and Alec Berg were collaborating on a series in which Hader would portray a hitman with a conscience striving to turn over a new leaf. However, what could seem like an overused theme has taken on fresh dimensions of amusement, gloominess, humaneness, and pure oddity, with its recently concluded ultimate season providing an outstanding culmination of all that dark weirdness mixed with a petite time leap. Barry Berkman (Hader) is a scarred marine whose newfound indifference towards existence and life itself makes him ideally suited to work as a contract killer. Upon a task leading him to Los Angeles, Barry stumbles upon an acting lesson directed by Gene Cousineau (Henry Winkler, potentially outshining his iconic Fonzie role), a failed yet appealing mentor. Nevertheless, rejoining the real world is not devoid of repercussions for Barry, who may spend an entire episode being pursued by a tiny combat arts expert. All four seasons of the acclaimed series, each one stronger than the preceding, are ready for full streaming.
Love & Death
Elizabeth Olsen smoothly transitions from occasional superhero to cold-hearted seductress in this reimagining of the narrative of Candy Montgomery—a churchgoing housewife and mother who becomes murderous after engaging in an affair with a fellow congregant (the consistently remarkable Jesse Plemons). If the storyline seems familiar, it may be due to its foundation on the authentic account of a homicide that occurred in Texas in 1980. Or it might bring to mind Hulu’s prior limited series, Candy, featuring Jessica Biel as the lethal female.
Succession
Media empires managed by dysfunctional families may encounter ups and downs, yet we always have Succession. The Emmy-winning series wrapped up its four-season journey in early 2023, but its standing as one of the most unexpected pieces of esteemed television will endure for years to come (particularly following the events at Shiv’s wedding… followed by “Connor’s Wedding,” not forgetting about on the terrace or the gripping hand-holding moment witnessed worldwide). In an era where shows about affluent individuals, genuine or imaginary, are abundant, Succession manages to excel by being as sharply comical as it is agonizingly sorrowful. The pitch-black family drama follows the Roy clan and those around them, all apparently aiming for control of Waystar RoyCo, the family-controlled global media conglomerate—regardless of through inheritance (get it?) or more hostile techniques. Visualize it as King Lear meets Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp., but amusing. (Unless you’re invited to partake in a game of Boar on the Floor.)
The Last of Us
The Last of Us achieved success where Netflix’s Resident Evil (which was axed after one season) and other live-action TV adaptations of video games faltered—by being truly outstanding. Craig Mazin (Chernobyl) and the original game director Neil Druckmann cocreated the post-apocalyptic saga, in which a weathered survivor (Pedro Pascal) is entrusted with escorting a quick-witted teenager (Bella Ramsey) who may hold the solution to curing the fungal infection-triggered pandemic that has transformed a large part of America into zombie-like entities. Kudos to everyone for generating such immense fascination in the (unquestionably real and parasitic) Cordyceps fungus—because fungi aficionados enjoy television as well. (Fans can look forward to a second season, with Pascal and Ramsey reprising their roles, in 2025.)
A Black Lady Sketch Show
In 2015, Robin Thede made television history by being appointed head scripter for The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore—marking her as the initial Black woman to hold the chief scripter position on a late-night talk program. Four years later, she reshaped the television landscape once more by uniting a collection of her most humorous companions—including Ashley Nicole Black, (future Abbott Elementary creator) Quinta Brunson, Gabrielle Dennis, and Skye Townsend—and forming AAfrican American Lady Comedy Show, a groundbreaking sketch comedy series crafted, produced, and led by Black females. This multi-season show has featured top-tier personalities such as Angela Bassett as special guests, presenting unfiltered humor, and the entire program is now accessible for streaming.
Rain Dogs
Daisymay Cooper as Costello Jones is an aspiring writer and a mother of modest means who often struggles to make ends meet for herself and her insightful daughter, Iris (Fleur Tashjian). Consequently, Costello frequently relies on her assertive yet affluent gay best friend, Selby (Jack Farthing), to extricate them from the predicaments they find themselves entangled in. Marketed as a dark comedy, the series does indeed deliver on that promise, although the interludes between the humor are at times so grim and unfiltered that even the lightest moments carry substantial weight. This intricately dark and occasionally surreal reflection on class, relationships, dysfunctions, and the diverse interpretations of “family” creates a binge-worthy series.
Abbott Elementary
Abbott Elementary, masterminded by the creator and lead Quinta Brunson (African American Lady Comedy Show), has amassed various accolades with this ABC production and even secured streaming agreements with both Max and Hulu. This unexpected hit delves into the lives of a cluster of educators toiling in one of the most underfunded public schools in the nation, striving to motivate their students. While this premise might seem earnest—and it is—the humor is a rare gem not commonly found on mainstream television nowadays. Although the series premiered its third season recently, it has already amassed a notable collection of awards (Emmys, Critics Choice, Indie Spirit, and more) deserving of a trophy case.
The White Lotus
The inclusion of Jennifer Coolidge in the initial two installments of The White Lotus (the sole actor to transition between locations in the series) is reason enough to attract numerous viewers. Initially conceptualized as a standalone series from the innovative mind of Mike White—who also co-created the underappreciated Enlightenment with Laura Dern, another HBO gem worth exploring—it has since evolved into a fully-fledged franchise. The show unearths the hidden complexities of the apparently luxurious lives of affluent guests staying at the opulent resorts featured in the narrative (first in Hawaii, then Sicily, with Thailand slated for the third season), and the staff members bending over backwards to cater to their every whim. Somewhere amidst the opulence, murder always seems to be on the horizon. With season 3 set to debut in 2025, there’s ample time to catch up—and you’ll want to, as HBO has already disclosed the involvement of Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Aimee Lou Wood in the forthcoming chapter.
I May Destroy You
Michaela Coel, a powerhouse of creativity, fulfills the promise embedded in the title of this limited series, which she conceived, scripted, directed, and starred in. Arabella (Coel) is a London resident living the millennial fantasy, boasting a thriving writing career fueled in part by her prominence as a social media influencer. However, Arabella’s picture-perfect existence begins to unravel when she recollects, in fragments, being a victim of assault following a night out with friends. Eventually, her overarching need to reconstruct the events leading to her trauma, as well as identifying the perpetrator, consumes her entirely, bringing her past to the forefront.
The Sex Lives of College Girls
Mindy Kaling collaboratively created this Max production, injecting a fresh perspective into the adolescent comedy genre where women take the helm. The group of college freshmen—comprising the nerdy Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet, the sister of Timothée), aspiring comedian Bela (Amrit Kaur), snobbish Upper East Sider Leighton (Reneé Rapp), and soccer enthusiast/senator’s offspring Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott)—find themselves randomly assigned as suitemates. As they forge relationships and self-discovery, their mandated cohabitation evolves into a genuine connection where transparency reigns supreme and a “naked party” serves as a stress-relief routine. The third season of the series is slated for an early release this year, marking the final bow for Reneé Rapp, a co-star and icon of Gen Z, who disclosed her departure to concentrate on her music career.
The Rehearsal
Attempting to describe The Rehearsal to the uninitiated with no prior exposure to Nathan Fielder’s mastery of uncomfortable humor? Good luck.initiates as a sequence in which the clumsy star/comic strives to assist individuals get ready for significant occasions in life by practicing them until they nail it accurately transforms into an unusual social test in which Fielder himself becomes one of the central figures. The less you are familiar with it in advance, the superior. Just be conscious that you will be engaging with individuals who answered to a Craigslist advertisement to participate. For additional bizarre brilliance from Fielder, all four seasons of Nathan for You—another form of meta-comedy that will compel you to repeatedly shield your eyes in vicarious shame—are also available on Max.
Avenue 5
Ill-timing potentially led to the untimely end of Avenue 5, as filming for its second season was postponed, and postponed again, due to Covid-19. Nonetheless, the space-themed comedy from the brilliant mind of Armando Iannucci, creator of Veep (another enduring streaming favorite on HBO Max), and its even more profane precursor, The Thick of It, is genuinely deserving of your time, if only to witness what ensues when space travel inevitably goes awry. Hugh Laurie takes on the role of the “captain” of an interplanetary cruise vessel, alongside Josh Gad portraying the eccentric tech tycoon/massive infant Herman Judd, whose intended eight-week exploration of the galaxy goes awry when a gravitational catastrophe diverts the ship off its intended course. The show escalates in absurdity as it progresses, with excrement playing a substantial role in rescuing numerous passengers and crew members. Brace yourselves—and feel at liberty to guffaw at the absurdity of it all. Boisterously.
The Righteous Gemstones
Danny McBride and HBO are the fresh dynamic duo of television. Initially, they collaborated for the outrageously offensive-for-offensiveness’s sake Eastbound & Down; then came Vice Principals. The Righteous Gemstones, which McBride formulated and commands the lead in, is his most recent endeavor to present a group of profoundly unlikable individuals and figure out a way to make you dislike them even more, yet still be inclined to continue watching. In this instance, it concerns a family of televangelists whose true deity is avarice and authority. McBride enlisted an ensemble cast that features John Goodman as the clan’s patriarch, Adam DeVine and Edi Patterson as the Gemstone offspring, and the esteemed Walton Goggins as Uncle Baby Billy Freeman—a former child star turned swindler who has contributed some of the show’s most unforgettable quotes and scenes.
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