Best Man On Hbo Max: Worth The Watch?

HBO Max is now known as Max, and while it may not have the shine it once did, it is still home to some of the best TV shows of the past 25 years. From classics like The Sopranos and The Wire to more recent hits like The Last of Us and Succession, Max has something for everyone.

In addition to its impressive lineup of original series, Max also offers a diverse range of movies, from Oscar-winning foreign films to dystopian sci-fi classics. Whether you're in the mood for a comedy, drama, or action film, Max has you covered.

The Best HBO Max Shows for Fans of Prestige TV

HBO Max is home to some of the best TV shows of the past 25 years, from classics like *The Sopranos*, *The Wire*, and *Game of Thrones* to newer original content like *Hacks*, *Station Eleven*, and *The Staircase*. Here are some of the best HBO Max shows for fans of prestige TV:

• The Pitt: This medical drama reunites ER star Noah Wyle with executive producer John Wells. Set in an underfunded hospital in Pittsburgh, the series plays out over 15 hours in real-time as patients come and go, medical students learn the harsh truths of their profession, and seasoned doctors butt heads with administrators over the US healthcare system.
• Dune: Prophecy: A prequel to Denis Villeneuve's Dune films, this series tells the origin story of the Bene Gesserit, a secretive sisterhood of psychics who wield power in the Duniverse.
• The Penguin: Spun off from Matt Reeves' The Batman, this noir thriller follows Colin Farrell's Oswald Cobblepot/Penguin as he tries to take over Gotham City's underworld after the death of Carmine Falcone.
• Industry: Set in a prestigious London investment bank, this finance world series follows a group of young bankers competing for a limited number of full-time positions. It's been described as a mix of "Succession" for Instagram influencers" and "Euphoria" for business majors.
• House of the Dragon: A prequel to Game of Thrones, set 200 years before the events of the original series, this show centres on the Targaryen family as they fight for control of the Iron Throne.
• Ren Faire: This documentary series follows the drama surrounding the potential successors of the founder of Texas' largest Renaissance faire. It's been described as "Succession" meets "Game of Thrones" with a medieval backdrop.
• Hacks: Starring Jean Smart as a legendary Las Vegas comedian whose career is on the decline, this series follows her reluctant mentorship of an entitled young comedian (Hannah Einbinder) who was recently cancelled for a tweet.
• The Sympathizer: Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen, this limited series follows a conflicted Communist spy in Vietnam during the Cold War. It's been described as a darkly humorous espionage thriller.
• Barry: Bill Hader stars as a depressed hitman trying to make it as an actor in Los Angeles in this dark comedy-drama, which has been praised for its frequent moments of sly, absurd humour.
• Succession: This Emmy-winning series centres on the power struggles within the exorbitantly rich Roy family, whose patriarch is the CEO of a billion-dollar media conglomerate. It's been described as a jet-black family dramedy that's painfully tragic and bitingly funny.
• The Last of Us: Based on the popular video game, this post-apocalyptic drama follows a survivor (Pedro Pascal) trying to smuggle a teenage girl (Bella Ramsey) out of a quarantine zone in a world overrun by cannibalistic, zombified creatures.
• Abbott Elementary: This mockumentary series follows the teachers and students of an underfunded public elementary school in Philadelphia as they try to provide for their students despite a lack of resources and support. It's been praised for its sweet-and-salty sense of humour and well-drawn characters.
• The White Lotus: This dark comedy-drama series from Mike White is set at an exclusive Hawaiian resort, where the seemingly fabulous lives of deep-pocketed guests and the people who cater to their needs take unexpected turns.
• I May Destroy You: Rising star Michaela Coel created, wrote, directed, and stars in this timely and unflinching drama about a Londoner who is sexually assaulted and must piece together the fragments of what happened to her.

The Best HBO Max Shows for Fans of Action

If you're a fan of action, HBO Max has got you covered. Here are some of the best action shows the platform has to offer:

Banshee

Co-created by Jonathan Tropper and David Schickler, this show is one of the best action series you'll find. It follows an ex-con who assumes the identity of the new sheriff of Banshee, Pennsylvania, after the real man dies. As he walks the line between criminal and lawman, the show delves into small-town power dynamics and organised crime. With pulpy action and knock-down, drag-out brawls, it's no wonder this show is back in the top 10.

Warrior

Based on the writings of Bruce Lee and brought to life by his daughter Shannon, this show is a breakthrough in Asian representation. It follows a martial arts prodigy making his way through the Tong Wars in 1870s San Francisco. With high-level action, great performances, and a unique look into an often-overlooked part of history, it's a fantastic series in its own right.

The Penguin

A spin-off of the 2022 film "The Batman", this crime drama follows Colin Farrell's Oswald Cobblepot, aka The Penguin, in his quest for power and control in Gotham City. With Cristin Milioti joining the cast as Carmine Falcone's daughter Sofia, this noir thriller is impossible to look away from.

Game of Thrones

While the show's conclusion left a sour taste in many viewers' mouths, there's no denying that "Game of Thrones" is an achievement in television. With compelling storylines and well-developed characters, it's a show that kept viewers on the edge of their seats for eight seasons.

Band of Brothers

This limited series follows a group of brothers in arms during World War II. With great performances and a focused narrative, it's no wonder this show is considered one of the best out there.

Batman: The Animated Series

With gorgeous animation, dark and gritty stories, and an iconic voice cast, this show is a fan favourite. Kevin Conroy's Batman and Mark Hamill's Joker are just a few of the reasons why this series is considered one of the best-animated shows of all time.

Deadwood

This western series explores the lives of settlers in a mining town in post-civil war America. With fantastic plot twists and compelling characters, it's no surprise that it garnered a massive fan base.

The Wire

Set in Baltimore, this crime drama focuses on the city's drug trade, government, and educational system. With its unflinching and fascinating exploration of the American underbelly, it's no wonder it's considered one of the greatest shows of all time.

The Sopranos

This groundbreaking drama follows James Gandolfini's mafia man, Tony Soprano, as he navigates his role as a mob boss and family man. With its vibrant story and compelling characters, it's a show that remains popular even years after its conclusion.

These shows are sure to keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat. So, grab your snacks, get comfortable, and let the action unfold!

The Best HBO Max Shows for Fans of Comedy

HBO Max has a wide range of comedy shows, from classic sitcoms to more recent releases. Here are some of the best comedy series available on the platform:

• Barry – This Emmy-winning series follows Bill Hader as a hitman from Cleveland who finds his passion for acting in Los Angeles. It's a brilliant blend of comedy and drama, with a great supporting cast including Henry Winkler.
• Abbott Elementary – This feel-good mockumentary-style sitcom, co-created by and starring Quinta Brunson, is set in an underfunded elementary school in Philadelphia. It offers a fresh take on the familiar format, with impeccable writing and performances.
• The Other Two – This show follows the adult siblings of an overnight pop star sensation as they navigate their own career struggles. It's a hilarious satire of the entertainment industry, with a unique premise and a talented cast.
• Hacks – An odd-couple comedy about a veteran Las Vegas comedian (Jean Smart) and a much younger, "cancelled" writer (Hannah Einbinder) who are forced to work together. It's a witty and relevant examination of the entertainment industry and evolving feminism.
• The Righteous Gemstones – A dark comedy about a world-famous televangelist family, created by and starring Danny McBride. It's a glorious satire of megachurches and the greed that exists behind the scenes.
• Veep – A satirical look at American politics, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the fictional first female Vice President. It's a hilarious and farcical portrayal of the inner workings of Washington, with a great supporting cast.
• The White Lotus – A black comedy anthology series, created by Mike White, set at exclusive luxury resorts. The first season is set in Hawaii, while the second takes place in Italy, both featuring an excellent rotating cast.
• Los Espookys – A Spanish-language comedy about a group of friends who start a business creating fake horror experiences. It's a unique blend of scary and silly, with a balance of humour and heart.
• The Flight Attendant – A comedy-drama-thriller starring Kaley Cuoco as a reckless flight attendant who becomes a person of interest in an FBI investigation. It's a wild ride, with Cuoco shining as the hot mess protagonist.
• South Side – A Chicago-based comedy following two furniture repo men, created by Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle. It offers a diverse and authentic portrayal of the city, with a mix of absurd situations and a talented cast.
• Insecure – A show about the awkward situations experienced by Black women, created by and starring Issa Rae. It's a funny and heartfelt exploration of relationships, career struggles, and more, with a relatable and well-written group of characters.
• Somebody Somewhere – A semi-autobiographical series starring comedian Bridget Everett, about a woman who moves back to her hometown in Kansas and finds community and self-discovery through singing. It's a wholesome and charming show with a lot of heart.
• The Sex Lives of College Girls – A more modern take on "Sex and the City", produced by Mindy Kaling, following four female college freshmen with very different backgrounds. It's a debaucherous and heartfelt college dramedy that appeals to a new generation.

The Best HBO Max Shows for Fans of Drama

HBO Max is home to some of the best TV shows of the past 25 years, from classics like "The Sopranos" and "The Wire" to more recent hits like "The White Lotus". Here are some of the best HBO Max shows for fans of drama:

• The White Lotus: This riveting dramedy from Mike White explores the dark secrets and complex dynamics among the wealthy guests and hardworking staff at an exclusive Hawaiian resort. The first season was set in Hawaii, while the second season moves the action to Sicily, Italy.
• The Sopranos: This groundbreaking drama series follows Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss who struggles with depression and seeks therapy amid his violent profession. It's a vivid portrayal of American life, capitalism, and the complexities of family.
• The Wire: This acclaimed crime drama from David Simon delves into the drug trade and explores the broader social issues in Baltimore, including the government, educational system, and law enforcement. It's known for its unflinching portrayal of urban life.
• Succession: This Emmy-winning series centers on the Roy family, who run a global media conglomerate. It's a darkly funny and tragic portrayal of a dysfunctional family's power struggles and the impact of wealth and privilege.
• The Leftovers: Co-created by Damon Lindelof, this series explores the aftermath of a mysterious event where 2% of the world's population suddenly disappears. It's a thought-provoking and emotional examination of grief, faith, and humanity.
• Mare of Easttown: This crime drama stars Kate Winslet as a small-town detective investigating a local murder while grappling with her own personal trauma. It's a compelling mystery that also delves into family dynamics and small-town secrets.
• The Righteous Gemstones: Created by Danny McBride, this dark comedy centers on a world-famous televangelist family, the Gemstones. It's a satirical look at faith, greed, and family dysfunction, with a mix of humor and despicable behavior.
• Barry: This series follows Bill Hader as Barry, a depressed hitman who tries to leave his past behind and pursue acting in Los Angeles. It blends dark humor with intense character studies, exploring trauma and the desire for redemption.
• The Last of Us: Based on the popular video game, this post-apocalyptic drama stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. It depicts a survivor's journey to smuggle a young girl out of a quarantine zone in a world overrun by cannibalistic creatures.
• Euphoria: This intense and messy series centers on Rue (Zendaya), a high school student navigating addiction and toxic relationships. It offers a raw and empathetic portrayal of teenage despair, with stunning cinematography and a bold narrative.
• The Penguin: A spin-off from "The Batman", this crime drama follows Colin Farrell's Oswald Cobblepot, aka The Penguin, as he seeks to rise to power in Gotham City's criminal underworld. It's a prestige TV approach to comic book origins, with Cristin Milioti stealing the show as a brilliant and brutal psychopath.
• Industry: Set in the high-stakes world of investment banking, this British-American series offers a glimpse into the lives of young professionals vying for coveted positions at a prestigious London bank. It blends financial jargon with interpersonal drama, creating a compelling dramedy.
• The Pitt: Reuniting ER star Noah Wyle with executive producer John Wells, this medical drama is set in an underfunded hospital in Pittsburgh. It plays out over 15 hours in real-time, offering a fast-paced and somber look at medicine in a post-pandemic world.
• Dune: Prophecy: A prequel to the "Dune" films, this series explores the origin story of the Bene Gesserit, a powerful sisterhood with extraordinary influence. It expands the "Dune" universe, delving into its politics and the power struggles within.
• The Sympathizer: Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this limited series is a black comedy-thriller set during the Vietnam War. It follows a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy and features Robert Downey Jr. in multiple roles.

These shows offer a range of dramatic narratives, from crime and family dramas to period pieces and explorations of power. They showcase complex characters, intense storylines, and thought-provoking themes that will keep you engrossed and entertained.

The Best HBO Max Shows for Fans of Sci-Fi and Fantasy

HBO Max has a wide range of shows for fans of science fiction and fantasy. Here are some of the best ones to watch:

• His Dark Materials: Based on Philip Pullman's award-winning book series, this show transports viewers to a parallel world filled with unique creatures and perilous quests. The story follows Lyra Belacqua as she uncovers a sinister conspiracy and harnesses her powerful destiny.
• Station Eleven: This show is based on Emily St. John Mandel's novel and takes place after a devastating pandemic. It follows a group of survivors trying to rebuild society and preserve humanity's artistic legacy.
• Doctor Who: One of the most iconic sci-fi franchises ever, Doctor Who follows the time-traveling adventures of an enigmatic alien known as The Doctor. With each reincarnation, The Doctor is portrayed by a different actor, constantly reinventing the show.
• The Last of Us: This highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved video game combines the best elements of the game with HBO Max's access to premium talent and storytelling. It takes place in a post-apocalyptic world and stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey.
• The Leftovers: While not hard sci-fi, this supernatural mystery series is too good to leave off the list. It follows police chief Kevin Garvey and his family as they navigate a world where 2% of the population has suddenly disappeared.
• Rick and Morty: This adult animated sci-fi comedy follows the adventures of a grandfather and his grandson, Morty, as they embark on travels across time and space. It's approaching its seventh season and has one of the most devoted fan bases on television.
• Dune: Prophecy: A worthy installment in the Dune franchise, this show is set 10,000 years before the events of the films and centres on the origins of the Bene Gesserit. It boasts impressive visual effects and gorgeous costuming.
• Avenue 5: From the creator of Veep, this unique sci-fi show brings workplace comedy and social commentary to space. It stars Hugh Laurie as the captain of a giant space cruise ship full of rich, snobby tourists.
• The Jetsons: This classic cartoon imagines the future and how technology will impact humanity, for better or worse. It's hilarious and wholesome, and a great opportunity to compare how people in the '60s imagined the future versus what it actually became.
• The Last Ship: From producer Michael Bay, this action-packed show is set on a post-apocalyptic Earth where 80% of humanity has been killed by a virus. It follows a Navy officer's quest to find a cure and save the survivors.

Frequently asked questions