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HBO Max: A Treasure Trove of Cinematic Brilliance
Renowned for its prestigious series such as The Sopranos and The Wire, HBO Max is not only a prominent player in the realm of original television content but has also significantly enhanced its film offerings. The platform boasts an impressive collection of films, ranging from Oscar-winning foreign features to classic dystopian science fiction. Below, we showcase some of our top picks currently available for streaming on HBO Max.
If you feel you’ve exhausted this selection, consider exploring our guide to the best movies on Netflix for additional options. And if you’ve completed Netflix and are seeking a new challenge, take a glance at our curated list of the finest films on Prime and Disney+.
A Deep Dive into Shakespeare’s Life with Hamnet
Directed by Chloé Zhao and adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, Hamnet provides an intimate portrayal of William Shakespeare’s life. The film closely examines the relationship between Agnes (Jessie Buckley) and the young William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) prior to his emergence as the iconic playwright we know today. It captures the life they built together, alongside the tragic loss of their son, Hamnet.
This heartbreaking event marks a turning point for the couple, forcing them to navigate their grief from distant emotional and physical trenches. Zhao’s direction is compelling; she refrains from simplifying Shakespeare’s work as a mere reaction to his personal tragedies, instead highlighting the profound connection between the playwright and his sorrow.
A New Take on Superheroes: Supergirl
In a departure from the traditional superhero narrative, Supergirl presents Kara Zor-El, portrayed by Milly Alcock, as a far more impulsive character. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the film follows the heroine on a space journey alongside Ruthye Marye Knoll (Eve Ridley), a young woman seeking justice after a tragedy. However, this adventure transcends mere interplanetary travel, delving into themes of grief, vengeance, and the transformation of pain into violence.
This version of Supergirl sets itself apart from Superman through a distinctly sharp sense of humour. While Clark Kent was nurtured in a supportive earthly family, Kara’s memories are haunted by the destruction of Krypton and the loss of those around her, adding layers of complexity to her character that challenge the archetype of the optimistic hero.
A Tense Exploration of Relationships in The Drama
Approach The Drama with caution, especially if you’re in the midst of a disagreement with your partner. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli, the film features Emma Harwood (Zendaya) and Charlie Thompson (Robert Pattinson), a couple navigating the pressures of pre-wedding stress. During a banquet rehearsal with two friends, they confess their past misdeeds.
Emma’s past soon comes to light, leading Charlie to grapple with the dilemma of forgiving her current self versus judging her former actions. The film is aptly named, delivering a poignant exploration of relationships that you can discover in HBO’s extensive catalogue.
Unearthing Urban Legends with Backrooms
Inspired by an urban legend from the depths of the internet, Backrooms encapsulates an eerie form of horror. You may be familiar with the notion of an infinite labyrinth filled with yellow walls and flickering lights; Reddit suggests this is what happens when one slips out of “reality.” The premise follows Clark (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who discovers a strange door in a department store basement that transports him to a dimension where he can temporarily escape his own misfortunes: his marriage has crumbled, and his store is on the brink of bankruptcy. A24 has masterfully translated internet horror to the big screen.
Humanising the Glitter of Las Vegas in The Last Showgirl
In The Last Showgirl, Pamela Anderson plays Shelly, a dancer who has spent decades in the entertainment industry. As the final curtain falls and a production announces its closure, Shelly is forced to confront her identity beyond the spotlight. Gia Coppola, known for her work on Palo Alto and Casino Moon, cleverly contrasts the entertainment industry’s glitz with the passage of a woman’s life as she moves away from the beauty standards dictated by the city of sin.
Revisiting a Classic: Dead Poets Society
Directed by Peter Weir, Dead Poets Society is set in a 1950s all-boys boarding school in the United States. The students live under strict discipline until they encounter their unconventional literature teacher, John Keating (Robin Williams). Using poetry as a catalyst, Keating inspires them to discover their identities and question the expectations imposed on them by society. The film’s enduring message, encapsulated in its motto ‘Carpe Diem’, reminds audiences of the importance of seizing the day and pursuing their true desires.
Exploring the Life of MMA Fighter in The Machine
After years of collaboration, the Safdie brothers ventured into independent filmmaking, with Benny Safdie choosing to helm a biographical film titled The Machine. This narrative chronicles the life of MMA fighter Mark Kerr, portrayed by a nearly unrecognisable Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The role presents a stark contrast for Johnson, as his character battles both a tumultuous relationship (Emily Blunt) and a long-standing addiction to painkillers. Although it may not have met initial expectations upon release, the performances by Johnson and Blunt anchor this raw drama, delivering compelling portrayals that captivate audiences.
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