HBO Max is one of the best streaming services currently available, and it has a wide range of TV shows for subscribers to choose from. The platform really has something for everyone, whether they’re into sprawling fantasy stories, mystery thrillers, superhero shows, or prestige dramas.
And some of the best shows streaming on HBO Max are ones everyone should watch once, either because they have a universal appeal, because they’re modern classics, or because they tackle important subjects. These titles are well worth checking out, if only to say you’ve done so — though most of them are as enjoyable as they are iconic.
Peacemaker
Peacemaker makes for an entertaining watch, even if superhero fare isn’t your typical go-to — and while knowledge of the DCU will help you recognize Easter eggs and references, you don’t need much of it to dive in. The Suicide Squad is the only film that directly impacts Peacemaker, and it’s also streaming on HBO Max.
And everyone should give both the 2021 film and John Cena’s series a try, as they’re dark and comical enough to win over DC fans and newcomers alike. Peacemaker has heart, action, and James Gunn’s usual brand of humor. It all comes together to deliver a series that’s a joy to watch, and everyone should get to experience that winning formula.
Mare Of Easttown
Mare of Easttown is one of those mystery thrillers you really should watch twice — but at the very least, Kate Winslet’s 2021 series should be experienced once. Mare of Easttown‘s gripping narrative, which centers on a murder investigation in a small town, will grip you from the first episode.
Winslet’s portrayal of the show’s lead, who is struggling with her past and using alcohol to cope, is enough reason to get invested in this series. However, Evan Peters’ performance, Mare of Easttown‘s high stakes, and the show’s incredible twists all make it worthwhile. The depth of the characters makes it appealing, even for those less inclined to reach for thrillers.
Euphoria
Euphoria is a show that’s received a lot of attention for its heavy subject matter and incredible cast. And while Euphoria season 3 is still a while off, the drama is one everybody with access to HBO Max should check out. Through its teen characters, it unpacks everything from addiction to gender identity, and these important storylines deserve attention.
In addition to its hard-hitting and relevant narratives, Euphoria is incredibly well-written and well-acted. From Zendaya and Hunter Schafer to Sydney Sweeney and Maddy Perez, there’s so much talent bringing this story to life. It makes the series even more powerful, and those who aren’t watching it are seriously missing out.
The Sopranos
The Sopranos is an essential crime drama, and it’s not underselling it to say the series changed television. But it’s been long enough since its 2007 finale that some HBO Max subscribers won’t have had the opportunity to watch it. Those who missed it while it was airing need to see why it’s considered a classic in the first place.
With all six seasons of The Sopranos streaming on HBO Max, that’s easy enough to accomplish. Despite some elements of The Sopranos not aging well, its complicated characters and tense narratives still make it a great watch. The amazing performances, well-placed humor, and emotional beats are also selling points, offering plenty of incentives to dig in.
Friends
Friends is another series that most HBO Max subscribers will have seen already. However, anyone who has managed to avoid Friends for this long needs to watch it. Although there are elements of the ’90s sitcom that don’t hold up today, it’s too influential to ignore.
Watching Friends will allow viewers to finally pick up on the references and memes surrounding the series, as many people still talk about it today. Additionally, it makes for a great comfort show, with the humor and connections between the core group sure to brighten any viewer’s mood.
The Wire
One of the greatest crime dramas of all time, The Wire stands out for its willingness to examine the system that creates criminals and acknowledge that law enforcement is far from perfect. While many crime shows take a more black-and-white approach, The Wire‘s nuance is refreshing and ensures it ages well.
It also makes the series required viewing, even 17 years after its ending. Beyond its realism and thoughtful themes, The Wire also boasts an incredible cast, strong writing, and an impressive production quality. It’s easy to fall into the show when all those things coexist.
The White Lotus
The White Lotus has been the source of many water-cooler conversations and internet memes in recent years, and that’s already a good reason to stream it on HBO Max. However, The White Lotus has more to offer than conversation starters. There’s a reason it’s so popular: it expertly blends drama, suspense, and comedy.
It also manages to reinvent itself with every season, bringing in recognizable cast members who are a big part of the draw. Add in the show’s commentary on wealth and privilege, and it’s hard to find reasons not to watch The White Lotus. The wait between seasons 3 and 4 offers an opportune time to dive in, too.
The Pitt
The Pitt is winning over critics and general audiences alike with its fresh take on the medical genre, and everyone should see what the excitement is about. The series could easily become one of the best medical dramas of all time, as it takes a more grounded and realistic approach to its storylines than most. It also digs deep into its characters and themes, which is refreshing.
And with just one season of The Pitt currently out, it’s a great time to binge it on HBO Max. The Pitt season 2 is already confirmed, and assuming the show has a long future ahead, it’s bound to become one of the most heavily discussed series in years. Anyone familiar with the medical system can appreciate it, and they’ll be in the loop when it finally does return.
The Last Of Us
Despite the criticisms leveled at The Last of Us season 2, it’s one of the best series to debut on HBO in recent years. Season 1 is required viewing for several reasons, including the touching bond between Joel and Ellie, the brutal adaptation of the video game’s world, and that beautiful Bill and Frank episode that will reduce even hardened viewers to tears.
Even season 2 has its strengths, and The Last of Us season 3 is poised to return to the first outing’s heights, especially if it learns from the backlash and leans further into the source material. Even if it doesn’t fix season 2’s problems, it’s big enough that people are going to be talking about it. Everyone should give it a try to see where they land on the series.
Abbott Elementary
Abbott Elementary has been hugely successful for a reason, and the game-changing sitcom is a must-watch, even for those who aren’t necessarily sitcom people. By taking place in a school setting and tackling real-world issues for inner-city teachers and students, the show sets itself apart.
Everyone should watch Abbott Elementary for awareness of the challenges facing many children and teachers, but its strengths extend beyond its commentary. The ABC series also has lovable characters and many heartwarming moments, making it an ideal binge for HBO Max subscribers looking for a good balance of thoughtful viewing and lighthearted enjoyment.
