7 greatest Oscar snubs of the last 10 years, ranked - Related to oscar, shows, lgbtq, netflix, hbo

7 greatest Oscar snubs of the last 10 years, ranked

Table of Contents Table of Contents 7. 2015 – Whiplash and Boyhood lose to Birdman in Best Picture 6. 2020 – Jennifer Lopez in Hustlers passed over for Best Supporting Actress 5. 2015 – Jake Gyllenhaal in Nightcrawler left out of Best Actor 4. 2020 – Adam Sandler left out of Best Actor for Uncut Gems 3. 2017 – Amy Adams in Arrival kept out of Best Actress 2. 2019 – Rami Malek defeats Bradley Cooper in Best Actor 1. 2019 – Roma, A Star is Born, and more lose to Green Book in Best Picture.

Not everyone can win an Oscar. Frankly, not everyone should win Oscars. That’s why winning an Academy Award is arguably the highest honor one can win in the film industry. Getting nominated is a win in and of itself. With only a finite amount of nominees, there are bound to be snubs. Frankly, snubs is kind of an ugly term because it implies one actor, movie, or craftsperson deserves an award more than someone else. It’s subjective, making it difficult to judge.

However, there are some glaring omissions in the Academy Awards’ long history. Saving Private Ryan losing to Shakespeare in Love, Dances with Wolves defeating Goodfellas, and Hoop Dreams’ failure to receive a documentary nomination are some of the more famous omissions in Oscar history. Some of these snubs even happened within the past decade. Here are the seven greatest Oscar snubs of the last 10 years.

7. 2015 – Whiplash and Boyhood lose to Birdman in Best Picture.

By no means is Birdman a bad movie. Alejandro González Iñárritu’s dramedy about an aging Hollywood star and the search for meaning in his life is quite good. Michael Keaton gives an Oscar-worthy performance as Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor best known for playing a superhero who tries to revitalize his career by starring in a Broadway production. Iñárritu’s technical direction, particularly the illusion of one continuous take, likely propelled Birdman to Best Picture at the 2015 Oscars.

Here’s the catch: when a more innovative film like Boyhood — Richard Linklater’s examination of a boy’s journey from childhood to adolescence shot over 10 years — or an exhilarating story like Whiplash – Damien Chazelle’s depiction of a jazz drummer’s quest to greatness – are in the same category, Birdman will always feel inferior to those two. In a perfect world, Keaton wins Best Actor over Eddie Redmayne, and Whiplash or Boyhood takes home Best Picture.

6. 2020 – Jennifer Lopez in Hustlers passed over for Best Supporting Actress.

Jennifer Lopez did everything in her power to secure an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 2020 Oscars. Lopez even wore her iconic Versace dress from the 2000 Grammys at the brand’s spring fashion show. Unfortunately, the Academy did not want a little extra star power at their ceremony.

Celebrity aside, Lopez in Hustlers is right up there with Out of Sight for her best performance in a movie. Lopez plays Ramona Vega, a veteran stripper who creates a scheme to steal money from wealthy clients after the financial crisis of 2007-2008 strikes. Smart, confident, and funny, Lopez shined as the Robin Hood-esque figure with heart. The Golden Globes, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards nominated Lopez for supporting actress. Yet the Academy had other plans.

5. 2015 – Jake Gyllenhaal in Nightcrawler left out of Best Actor.

Jake Gyllenhaal went full psycho to play Louis Bloom in Nightcrawler. Louis begins Dan Gilroy’s thriller as a petty criminal struggling to make ends meet. After meeting a stringer (the late Bill Paxton) at a car crash, Louis becomes a videographer, hoping to sell his footage to local news stations for cash. With a camera and a police scanner, Louis scours the Los Angeles night for criminal activity to film.

Gyllenhaal has never been more committed to a role, even losing 30 pounds to play this nocturnal figure. Gyllenhaal even broke a mirror during a take, requiring him to receive medical attention. It’s a creepy, spellbinding performance from Gyllenhaal, who somehow injects Louis with some charm and humanity. Gyllenhaal received acting nominations at the BAFTAs, SAGs, Golden Globes, and Critics’ Choice. How come, Academy? (In the style of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri).

4. 2020 – Adam Sandler left out of Best Actor for Uncut Gems.

The Academy has never known how to treat comedians who switch sides and cross into dramas. The best example is Jim Carrey and his career-defining work in The Truman Show. Carrey won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Truman Burbank. Yet the Academy didn’t even nominate Carrey for Best Actor at the Oscars. History repeated itself in 2020 with a different comedian, Adam Sandler, and his wild thriller, Uncut Gems.

Directed by the Safdie Brothers, Uncut Gems follows Howard Ratner, a Jewish jeweler with a gambling addiction. Facing serious debt, Ratner risks it all on a lucrative parlay involving Boston Celtics center Kevin Garnett. Uncut Gems is another example of when paired with the right script and director, Sandler is a fantastic dramatic actor. It’s time to take Sandler more seriously, Academy.

3. 2017 – Amy Adams in Arrival kept out of Best Actress.

Did you know that Amy Adams has been nominated for six Oscars? That is the second most nominations by an actress without winning, trailing Glenn Close who has eight. Still, Adams must be doing something right to at least get an invite to the esteemed awards show. Given the Academy’s adoration for Adams, it’s baffling that the six-time nominee was left out of Best Actress for Arrival.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Arrival follows linguistics professor Louise Banks (Adams) and her efforts to establish contact with the extraterrestrial creatures who landed on Earth. Arrival is one of the best movies of the 2010s, backed by Adams’ emotionally moving and quietly powerful performance. Seeing how the Academy left Villeneuve out of Best Director for two Dune movies makes more sense as to why they overlooked Adams in 2017. Regardless, that doesn’t make it right.

2. 2019 – Rami Malek defeats Bradley Cooper in Best Actor.

No rule states actors must use their voices or learn to play instruments to give Academy Award-worthy performances. Ray did not use Jamie Foxx’s singing voice for Ray Charles’ music, and he still won a much-deserved Oscar. The same goes for Bohemian Rhapsody, which did not use Rami Malek’s singing voice in the Queen songs performed by Freddie Mercury.

However, there should be a rule that when choosing who wins an award between two actors in musical movies, the nod should go to the performer who actually used their own voice. All of that to say, the Academy should have awarded Best Actor to Bradley Cooper over Malek. For A Star Is Born, Cooper took vocal lessons for six months, learned how to play multiple instruments, wrote several original songs, and performed live in front of crowds at festivals like the Glastonbury Festival. That effort should have resulted in Cooper’s first actor.

1. 2019 – Roma, A Star is Born, and more lose to Green Book in Best Picture.

Green Book is a solid movie. It has its flaws, especially in terms of how it handles race. However, it’s a rather charming film, especially in the interactions between Viggo Mortensen’s Tony Lip and Mahershala Ali’s Don Shirley. Green Book works more effective as a story about friendship than one about racial relations in the 1960s. The Peter Farrelly-directed film would have a much more effective reputation had it not won Best Picture.

The reality is Green Book did indeed win Best Picture and instantly became one of the award’s weakest recipients of the 21st century. Roma, the year’s prohibitive favorite, A Star Is Born, BlacKKKlansman, Black Panther, and The Favourite would have all been formidable winners that year. Part of me believes Roma’s loss was the Academy’s way of telling Netflix, a streaming service, that they “don’t belong” at this ceremony.

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The best LGBTQ movies on Netflix right now

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, meaning many will be in the mood for a rom-com or a great drama. Luckily for those interested in the latter, Netflix has them covered with a collection of great offerings. In particular, the best LGBTQ+ movies on Netflix offer a wide range of options, covering many genres, addressing several themes, and targeting numerous tastes. Indeed, the so-called King of the Streamers has a wide selection of queer movies available for all types of audiences, including rom-coms for the lovebirds and more intense dramas for those looking for a movie with a bit more meat.

The films on this list feature compelling queer stories and characters that will make their audience feel seen, perhaps for the first time. New movies come to Netflix every week, meaning there’s a consistent and varied collection of queer-themed pictures available. Some are acquired tastes, while others are critically acclaimed classics. Several are animated, while a good few are decidedly not kid-friendly. With so much to choose from, it might be tedious to search for just one title. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the best LGBTQ-themed movies on Netflix right now.

When you’re done going through this list, check out the best LGBTQ films to stream right now, the best new movies to stream, and the best Netflix original series you can stream right now.

Alex Strangelove (2018) 62% 62% [website] [website] 99m Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Daniel Doheny, Madeline Weinstein, Antonio Marziale Directed by Craig Johnson Watch on Netflix Craig Johnson’s Alex Strangelove follows high school senior Alex (Daniel Doheny) as he plans to lose his virginity to his girlfriend, Claire (Madeline Weinstein). However, his life changes when he meets Elliott (Antonio Marziale), a charming gay kid who will make him question everything he thinks he knows about himself. A delightful coming-of-age tale, Alex Strangelove is among the best yet most criminally underrated LGBTQ+ teen rom-coms of the last ten years. Powered by a trio of unassuming yet confident performances, the film tells a sweet, heartwarming tale of self-discovery and the thrill of first love.

The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017) 76% 76% [website] [website] 105m Genre Documentary Stars Marsha P. Johnson, Victoria Cruz, Sylvia Rivera Directed by David France Watch on Netflix The 2017 documentary The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson chronicles the investigation of activist Victoria Cruz into the 1992 death of Marsha P. Johnson, a crucial figure in the fight for gay rights. Fellow activist Sylvia Rivera, who was openly transgender, is also one of the documentary’s main subjects. Providing a more intimate and long-overdue look into the lives and deaths of two seminal figures in the ongoing fight for gay rights, The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson is as informative as it is sobering. It paints a detailed chapter of a vital moment in gay rights history, illustrating how far we’ve come and how long the road ahead remains.

All in My Family (2019) [website] [website] 39m Genre Documentary Stars Hao Wu Directed by Hao Wu Watch on Netflix The 2019 short documentary All in My Family reveals how families reckon with opposing views on traditional concepts. It centers on a heterosexual family whose son, a Chinese gay man, decides to have a baby via surrogate with his partner. The film is a short but no less poignant look at how families interact and how individuals come to terms with new and challenging concepts that might seem too daunting at first. Although it doesn’t seek to answer every question, All in My Family is a great way to start a conversation about topics that might not be openly discussed otherwise.

Emilia Pérez (2024) 71% 71% [website] [website] 132m Genre Drama, Thriller Stars Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez Directed by Jacques Audiard Watch on Netflix One of the year’s hottest awards players is Jacques Audiard’s crime musical Emilia Pérez. Karla Sofía Gascón stars as the titular character, a fearsome crime leader who recruits her underappreciated lawyer, Rita (Zoe Saldaña), to help her disappear and achieve her dream of transitioning into a woman. Gascón, Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz shared the Best Actress award at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, launching them into the awards conversation. Emilia Pérez is not without its issues, however. Its depiction of Mexico remains extremely problematic, and the plot’s in-your-face and highly unique approach will undoubtedly turn off some viewers. However, as a striking work of singular genius, Emilia Pérez stands out as one of the year’s most daring and original efforts, a disruptive musical that marches to the beat of its own drum.

Close to You (2024) 55% 55% NaN/10 NaN/10 99m Genre Drama, Romance Stars Elliot Page, Hillary Baack, Wendy Crewson Directed by Dominic Savage Watch on Netflix Elliot Page stars in Dominic Savage’s 2023 drama Close to You. The plot follows Sam, a trans man coming home for his father’s birthday. As he reconnects with an old friend, Sam attempts to deal with his family’s struggles to accept his transition. As a passion project for Page, the script makes wide use of improvisation, leading to a naturalistic, but awkward and often highly uneven narrative that strays from Page’s otherwise capable hands. Still, as a moving narrative about the trans experience told from the perspective of one of Hollywood’s most honest and proud trans performers, Close to You is a worthwhile and poignant film and a meaningful watch.

Will & Harper (2024) 74% 74% [website] [website] 114m Genre Documentary, Comedy Stars Will Ferrell, Harper Steele, Tim Meadows Directed by Josh Greenbaum Watch on Netflix Josh Greenbaum’s documentary Will & Harper chronicles a 17-day trip across the United States by longtime friends Will Ferrell and Harper Steele, the latter of whom came out as a trans woman during the COVID pandemic. The documentary is a heartfelt look at the nature of an ever-evolving friendship with profound insights into the trans experience from a remarkably funny and sympathetic individual. Moreover, Will & Harper is insightful and endearing without ever feeling exploitative or manipulative; instead, the camera shows two people clearly comfortable with each other, capturing their everyday interactions and presenting a refreshingly honest portrayal of allyship.

Fear Street: 1994 (2021) 67% 67% [website] [website] 107m Genre Horror, Mystery Stars Kiana Madeira, Olivia Scott Welch, Benjamin Flores Jr. Directed by Leigh Janiak Watch on Netflix The first part in the Netflix Fear Street anthology, Fear Street 1994 follows a teenager and her friends as they take on a dangerous threat that has seemingly plagued their town for years. Made in the classic vein of the slasher genre, Fear Street Part One: 1994 benefits from an engaging collection of characters in service of a traditional yet satisfying supernatural horror tale. With a tremendously compelling LGBTQ+ protagonist and final girl, the criminally underrated Deena Johnson, brought to life by the equally underappreciated Kiana Madeira, Fear Street: 1994 is the perfect choice for those looking for an LGBTQ+ story with a healthy dose of fright.

The Invisible Thread (2022) [website] [website] 109m Genre Comedy, Drama, Family, Romance Stars Filippo Timi, Francesco Scianna, Francesco Gheghi Directed by Marco S. Puccioni Watch on Netflix A modern take on an old story, The Invisible Thread is a dramedy of familial trouble and self-discovery. The plot centers on Leone, a young man working on a project about LGBTQ+ rights, using his personal experience as a child of two fathers for inspiration. While dealing with questions about his sexuality and a newfound attraction for a classmate, Leone will find more about himself than he could’ve anticipated. The Invisible Thread is a fun, if not particularly groundbreaking, entry into the coming-of-age genre, but it doesn’t need to push boundaries. Instead, its strength relies on being a fun, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt depiction of family love and LGBTQ+ bonds.

Ahead of the Curve (2021) 62% 62% [website] [website] 98m Genre Documentary Stars Franco Stevens, Melissa Etheridge, Kim Katrin Directed by Rivkah Beth Medow, Jen Rainin Watch on Netflix A documentary about an influential yet sadly underappreciated figure in lesbian entertainment, Ahead of the Curve shines a light on a modern icon that has spent far too long in the shadows. It chronicles the story of Franco Stevens, a visionary woman who launched Curve, a bestselling lesbian magazine that reshaped the LGBTQ+ cultural and entertainment landscape of the ’90s. It focuses on the magazine’s beginnings and its enduring legacy for the LGBTQ+ community. As an insightful peek into one of the community’s most prominent publications, Ahead of the Curve is a valuable look into a crucial moment in LGBTQ+ history and one of the key figures in the movement.

A Secret Love (2020) 77% 77% [website] [website] 83m Genre Documentary Stars Terry Donahue, Pat Henschel, Diana Bolan Directed by Chris Bolan Watch on Netflix Yet another documentary, this time focusing on the hardship and secrecy that, unfortunately, accompany many LGBTQ+ relationships. As the title implies, A Secret Love tells the story of a former baseball player who must keep her seven-decade relationship with the woman she loves a secret from her family and society. As they come out during their golden years, they realize some struggles never end. A Secret Love is both a sobering and rewarding watch, ideal for all those who want to reminisce on how far we’ve come and how long we still have to go. With a tender story at its center, A Secret Love is among the most worthwhile documentaries on Netflix.

The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love (1995) [website] [website] 94m Genre Comedy, Drama, Romance Stars Laurel Holloman, Nicole Ari Parker, Maggie Moore Directed by Maria Maggenti Watch on Netflix A pioneering entry in sapphic cinema, The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love stars Laurel Holloman and Nicole Ari Parker and follows the love story between two girls from opposing high-school cliques in a small town. Unlike other movies of the time, this one actually ends on a happy and uplifting yet still realistic note, pointing out that LGBTQ+ couples will always have to deal with background noise but must always do their best to drown it. Although massively underrated, The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love is a must-see for LGBTQ+ fans and a brilliant example of how queer cinema can deal with severe topics without necessarily ending in tragedy.

Carol (2015) 94% 94% [website] [website] 118m Genre Romance, Drama Stars Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Kyle Chandler Directed by Todd Haynes Watch on Netflix Cate Blanchett delivers one of her finest performances in Todd Haynes’ 2015 period romantic drama Carol opposite an equally brilliant Rooney Mara. Based on the groundbreaking novel The Price of Salt, Carol depicts the romance between a mature woman undergoing a divorce and a young woman discovering her sexuality in 1950s Manhattan. Arguably Haynes’ best film, Carol is a masterclass in eroticism in service of a narratively powerful story. Blanchett and Mara share a passionate yet warm chemistry that further adds depth to this story about love, class, self-discovery, and the desire to be free from society’s constraints to pursue one’s true self.

Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution (2024) [website] [website] 100m Genre Documentary, Comedy Stars Lily Tomlin, Rosie O'Donnell, Sandra Bernhard Directed by Page Hurwitz Watch on Netflix Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution explores the history of LGBTQ+ stand-up comedians who defied conventions and challenged notions through the power of laughter. It capabilities many prominent comedians, including Lily Tomlin, Wanda Sykes, Margaret Cho, Eddie Izzard, Sandra Bernhard, Joel Kim Booster, Tig Notaro, and many more. The documentary is a funny and insightful look behind the scenes at the journeys of these trailblazers, reminding audiences of the importance of humor and the need for it as an instrument for true and meaningful social change.

Strange Way of Life (2023) [website] [website] 31m Genre Drama, Western, Romance Stars Ethan Hawke, Pedro Pascal, Jason Fernández Directed by Pedro Almodóvar Watch on Netflix Pedro Almodóvar’s second English-language project stars Oscar nominee Ethan Hawke and The Last of Us season 2 star Pedro Pascal. Strange Way of Life follows Jake, a sheriff in a small town who is investigating the murder of his brother’s widow. Things get complicated when his ex-lover, Silva, arrives, only for Jake to realize Silva is the father of the main suspect in the crime. Strange Way of Life deals with many of Almodóvar’s favorite themes, including masculinity, homosexuality, and repressed emotions. The 31-minute runtime might leave audiences wanting more, but Almodóvar’s distinctive voice and the chemistry between Hawke and Pascal more than compensate for it.

Brother (2023) 70% 70% [website] [website] 120m Genre Drama Stars Lamar Johnson, Aaron Pierre, Kiana Madeira Directed by Clement Virgo Watch on Netflix Based on David Chariandy’s novel and set in 1990s Toronto, Clement Virgo’s Brother is an intimate portrayal of brotherhood and masculinity. Aaron Pierre and Lamar Johnson star as Francis and Michael, two brothers dealing with several issues. The film alternates between their childhood, teen years, and young adulthood, leading to a tragic ending. Brother deals with its LGBTQ+ themes subtly, but cleverly, blending them with the narrative’s other concerns rather than placing them at the forefront. The result is a nuanced yet impactful coming-of-age story that rises on the strength of the lead character’s loving bond.

Chabuca (2024) [website] [website] 120m Genre Drama, Romance Stars Sergio Armasgo, Izan Alcázar, Miguel Dávalos Directed by Jorge Carmona Watch on Netflix Peruvian entertainment personality and drag queen Ernesto Pimentel is the subject of the 2024 biopic Chabuca. The film chronicles his childhood and the circumstances that led to the creation of La Chola Chabuca, a defining character in South American television that changed his life. Chabuca is a revelatory, yet loving portrayal of a larger-than-life figure who many might not know much about. Although it adheres to the classic biopic formula, Chabuca remains a fascinating depiction of its subject, coming from a clear place of admiration and respect.

Hurricane Season (2023) [website] [website] 99m Genre Drama, Thriller, Crime Stars Edgar Treviño, Andrés Cordaz, Ernesto Meléndez Directed by Elisa Miller Watch on Netflix The Mexican drama thriller Hurricane Season is based on Fernanda Melchor’s 2017 eponymous novel and directed by Elisa Miller. Set in the rural village of La Matosa, the plot centers on a group of teenagers who stumble upon the corpse of La Bruja, a respected, but mysterious woman. The film uses a nonlinear narrative focused on several characters and explores their involvement in the crime and the circumstances that led to it. Hurricane Season depicts their lives and experiences through sexuality, relationships, and self-discovery, addressing classic coming of age themes and expertly blending them with a riveting thriller narrative that will keep audiences on the edge.

The Persian Version (2023) 61% 61% [website] [website] 108m Genre Comedy, Drama, Romance Stars Layla Mohammadi, Niousha Noor, Kamand Shafieisabet Directed by Maryam Keshavarz Watch on Netflix The Persian Version tells the story of Leila, a young Iranian-American queer writer whose life unravels after a one-night-stand ends in a very complicated situation. Reuniting with her large family for her father’s heart transplant, Leila finds herself at odds with her domineering mother, Shireen. Mixing a classic clash-of-cultures story with a compelling narrative about self-acceptance and finding common ground with those closest to us, The Persian Version finds new ways to tell a well-known tale. It might not reinvent the genre, but it contributes to it with a well-crafted, endearing story many will relate to.

Eternal Summer (2006) [website] [website] 96m Genre Drama, Romance Stars Ray Chang, Joseph Chang, Kate Yeung Directed by Leste Chen Watch on Netflix The 2006 Taiwanese romantic coming-of-age drama Eternal Summer is among this century’s most underrated LGBTQ+ movies. It centers on childhood friends Jonathan and Shane, whose connection is tested when a new girl, Carrie, arrives at their school, expressing an interest in them. To further complicate matters, Jonathan begins questioning his sexuality and his feelings toward Shane. Eternal Summer is an emotional and insightful depiction of young love at a pivotal period in a person’s life, when feelings are unclear, and everything seems like a matter of life and death.

Shortcomings (2023) 67% 67% [website] [website] 92m Genre Comedy, Drama, Romance Stars Justin H. Min, Sherry Cola, Ally Maki Directed by Randall Park Watch on Netflix Randall Park’s feature directorial debut, Shortcomings stars Justin H. Min and Sherry Cola as Ben and Alice, two young adults dealing with messy love lives and uncertain professional futures. When Ben and his girlfriend, Miko, break up, he begins dating again, relying on Alice, who is queer and ready to commit. Sweet yet surprisingly incisive, Shortcomings is a worthy entry into the ever-growing romantic dramedy subgenre. It offers interesting commentaries about the queer and Asian-American experiences through witty and intelligent humor, resulting in a film that deserves more attention from the masses.

Maestro (2023) 77% 77% [website] [website] 131m Genre Drama, Romance, Music Stars Carey Mulligan, Bradley Cooper, Matt Bomer Directed by Bradley Cooper Watch on Netflix Bradley Cooper’s sophomore directorial effort, Maestro, apirs him with fellow Oscar-nominee Carey Mulligan to tell the story of Leonard Bernstein’s marriage to Felicia Montealegre. The film chronicles their relationship over the years, including his incredible success and his dalliances with other men. Maestro offers a superficial, but still compelling look at the private life of a musical genius, and while it doesn’t reveal anything new about Bernstein, it at least offers plenty of opportunities for its two leading actors to shine. Nominated for seven Oscars, Maestro is one of Netflix’s heavy hitters for the 2024 awards season.

Good Grief (2023) 59% 59% [website] [website] 101m Genre Comedy, Drama, Romance Stars Dan Levy, Ruth Negga, Himesh Patel Directed by Dan Levy Watch on Netflix Following the success of Schitt’s Creek, Dan Levy is embracing his directorial sensibilities. The multi-hyphenate writes, directs, and stars in the 2024 dramedy Good Grief, which co-stars Hamish Patel and Oscar-nominee Ruth Negga. The plot follows a man grieving the loss of his husband with the help of his two best friends. Although it treads familiar territory, Good Grief remains a sweet and sentimental examination of grief, love, and acceptance. Levy relies on classic tropes of the genre, but the result is affecting and rewarding nonetheless.

Down Low (2023) 48% 48% [website] [website] 94m Genre Comedy Stars Zachary Quinto, Lukas Gage, Sebastian Arroyo Directed by Rightor Doyle Watch on Netflix Down Low is the kind of silly fun perfect for a Saturday afternoon. Zachary Quinto stars as Gary, a divorced, closeted father of two in his 40s who hires Cameron, a young prostitute played by Lucas Gage. The plot quickly descends into chaos in this wickedly black comedy about embracing life’s opportunities and making the best out of every moment. Those who enjoy a morbid comedy will get a kick out of Down Low, an uneven, yet biting film that packs quite a punch, largely thanks to Quinto and Gage’s chaotic chemistry.

Rustin (2023) 68% 68% [website] [website] 108m Genre Drama, History Stars Colman Domingo, Chris Rock, Glynn Turman Directed by George C. Wolfe Watch on Netflix Emmy winner Colman Domingo stars as civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in George C. Wolfe’s 2023 biopic Rustin. The plot follows his efforts advising Martin Luther King Jr. and his contributions to organizing the 1963 March on Washington. However, it also deals with the repercussions his openly gay lifestyle brought upon him. Elevated by a tour-de-force performance from Domingo, Rustin is a familiar, yet insightful look into the life and legacy of a prominent historical figure who has spent far too long in the shadows.

NYAD (2023) 64% 64% [website] [website] 121m Genre Drama, History Stars Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin Watch on Netflix Four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Bening and two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster star in the 2023 sports biopic Nyad. The film chronicles the efforts of Diana Nyad, a marathon swimmer who, at 64, attempts to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without using a shark cage. Nyad’s real-life story is surrounded by controversy, but Bening and Foster deftly navigate a thorny story to deliver a crowd-pleasing film that will keep audiences entertained.

Nuovo Olimpo (2023) [website] [website] 112m Genre Romance, Drama Stars Damiano Gavino, Andrea Di Luigi, Luisa Ranieri Directed by Ferzan Özpetek Watch on Netflix Ferzan Özpetek’s 2023 romantic drama Nuovo Olimpo tells the story of two men who meet in 1970s Rome. Their quick and torrid romance is interrupted by an unexpected event, leading them to try to find each other again for the next 30 years. Although it treads familiar territory, Nuovo Olimpo remains an emotional and affecting story about love, longing, passion, and regret that’s deftly guided by Özpetek’s direction and supported by the terrific performances of leads Damiano Gavino and Andrea Di Luigi. Those unafraid of subtitles should absolutely check out this underrated gem.

Elisa & Marcela (2019) [website] [website] 118m Genre Drama, Romance Stars Natalia de Molina, Greta Fernández, Sara Casasnovas Directed by Isabel Coixet Watch on Netflix Based on a true story, this Spanish drama begins in 1885, as Marcela and Elisa meet and form a deep bond. Their friendship becomes a passionate and forbidden love affair that leads them to defy conventions. In 1901, Elisa adopts a male identity in order to marry Marcela. Propelled by its compelling lead performers, Elisa & Marcela overcomes dramatic clichés and a conventional narrative to deliver a tender romantic story about love in the face of prejudice. Although far from perfect, Elisa & Marcela is a worthy entry in Netflix’s LGBTQ+ library.

The Power of the Dog (2021) 89% 89% [website] [website] 128m Genre Drama, Western Stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Kirsten Dunst Directed by Jane Campion Watch on Netflix Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness star Benedict Cumberbatch received his second Oscar nomination for playing a rough and sexually repressed rancher in Jane Campion’s masterful neo-Western The Power of the Dog. The plot follows Phil Burbank, a brutal rancher whose carefully controlled life is threatened by the arrival of his meek brother’s new wife and her gentle and alluring son. Dealing with themes of masculinity, fragility, sexual attraction, and sexuality, The Power of the Dog is a powerful and thought-provoking deconstruction of the Western genre elevated by career-best performances from Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst.

Boy Erased (2018) 69% 69% [website] [website] 115m Genre Drama Stars Lucas Hedges, Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe Directed by Joel Edgerton Watch on Netflix Academy Award winners Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe star opposite Academy Award nominee Lucas Hedges in Joel Edgerton’s 2018 drama Boy Erased. The plot centers on Jared Eamons, a boy sent to a conversion therapy program by his religious parents. While there, Jared learns to find his own voice and accept his sexuality. Boy Erased navigates a potentially thorny subject with admirable empathy, and while it doesn’t do nearly as much as it could with its intriguing premise, it succeeds as a powerfully acted and delicately told drama.

Do Revenge (2022) 66% 66% [website] [website] 118m Genre Comedy Stars Camila Mendes, Maya Hawke, Austin Abrams Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson Watch on Netflix Camila Mendes and Stranger Things Volume 4 star Maya Hawke star in the pastel-colored teen revenge comedy Do Revenge. The plot centers on two teenagers who join forces to get revenge on each other’s enemies. However, their plan soon leads to unexpected results. Loosely inspired by the Hitchcock classic Strangers on a Train, Do Revenge borrows from the many advanced teen movies that came before. However, a witty screenplay and Mendes and Hawke’s perfect performances elevate this teen movie.

Marry My Dead Body (2023) [website] [website] 130m Genre Comedy, Mystery, Action Stars Greg Hsu, Austin Lin, Gingle Wang Directed by Cheng Wei-Hao Watch on Netflix Ming-han is a homophobic and skeptic policeman who gets accidentally betrothed to a lately deceased gay man, Mao Pan-yu, after accidentally picking up a red wedding envelope. To rid themselves of the marriage, the cop and his “ghost husband’ must work together to discover the mysteries behind Mao’s unsolved death. A deranged comedy for fans of the now-defunct screwball genre, Marry My Dead Body is a delightful effort benefitting from a ludicrous plot and a committed cast.

Nimona (2023) 75% 75% [website] [website] 101m Genre Animation, Adventure, Fantasy Stars Chloë Grace Moretz, Riz Ahmed, Eugene Lee Yang Directed by Troy Quane, Nick Bruno Watch on Netflix Based on the eponymous 2015 graphic novel, Nimona stars a voice cast led by Chloë Grace Moretz, Riz Ahmed, and Frances Conroy. The film is set in a Medieval-inspired fantasy world and follows a knight falsely accused of a crime. Desperate to prove his innocence, he joins Nimona, a young girl and shape-shifter who joins his quest for justice. Nimona is a beautifully animated and thought-provoking animated adventure benefitting from a spirited voice performance by the ever-reliable Moretz. Stylish, humorous, and filled with subtext, Nimona will satisfy adults and children alike.

Eldorado: Everything the Nazis Hate (2023) [website] [website] 92m Genre Documentary Directed by Benjamin Cantu Watch on Netflix The 2023 documentary Eldorado: Everything the Nazis Hate shines a line in a pivotal period of German history. The film focuses on the lives of LGBTQ+ people during the Weimar Republic and Nazi Germany, using the titular queer nightclub Eldorado as the setting. Eldorado: Everything the Nazis Hate attributes several prominent queer figures and offers an accessible and engrossing look at a much-discussed period in history through the eyes of a group that suffered greatly at the hands of Nazi Germany.

Operation Hyacinth (2021) [website] [website] 106m Genre Thriller Stars Tomasz Zietek, Hubert Miłkowski, Adrianna Chlebicka Directed by Piotr Domalewski Watch on Netflix Hyacinth is a Polish thriller directed by Piotr Domalewski. The plot follows Robert, a young police officer new to the force. His investigation into a serial killer targeting gay men in Warsaw leads him down a path of self-discovery and mystery, as every choice he makes leads him closer to discovering the truth. The film is based on the real-life Operation Hyacinth conducted by the Polish force between 1985 and 1987, aiming to register every known homosexual and those close to them. Engrossing and gritty, Hyacinth condemns the real operation while delivering a compelling mystery that will leave audiences satisfied.

Time Out (2015) [website] [website] 98m Genre Drama, Family Stars Pranay Pachauri, Chirag Malhotra Directed by Rikhil Bahadur Watch on Netflix The 2015 Bollywood comedy Time Out tells a classic coming-of-age story about sibling love and identity. The plot follows Gaurav, a 14-year-old who struggles to accept his older brother, high school jock Mihir, is gay. As Gaurav deals with his first love and family trouble resulting from Mihir’s confession, he’ll realize the true meaning of brotherhood. Time Out is sweet and funny, offering a heartfelt look at a pivotal moment in a young boy’s life and dealing with deep and crucial themes with warmth and empathy.

The Perfection (2018) 60% 60% [website] [website] 90m Genre Horror, Thriller, Drama Stars Allison Williams, Logan Browning, Steven Weber Directed by Richard Shepard Watch on Netflix The ever-underrated Allison Williams stars in the 2018 psychological horror thriller The Perfection. The plot centers on Charlotte, a talented but troubled musical prodigy who returns to a prestigious music school, where she develops a complicated relationship with Lizzie, the new rising talent. The Perfection is the perfect mix of gory thrills and near-campy silliness, elevated by Williams’ outstanding lead performance. Gripping, but never taking itself too seriously, The Perfection is an LGBTQ+ story for fans looking for something other than romance.

Badhaai Do (2022) [website] [website] 147m Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Rajkummar Rao, Bhumi Pednekar, Seema Pahwa Directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni Watch on Netflix The Hindi dramedy Badhaai Do follows a gay man and a lesbian who enter a marriage of convenience to avoid coming out to their families. Their peaceful cohabitation is upended when the woman’s girlfriend comes to live with them, throwing their lives into chaos. Thoughtful without sacrificing the humor, Badhaai Do is a funny and heartwarming story about identity and inclusivity that marks another step in the right direction for LGBTQ+ representation.

So My Grandma's a Lesbian! (2020) [website] [website] 97m Genre Comedy, Romance Stars Rosa María Sardà, Verónica Forqué, Ingrid García Jonsson Directed by Ángeles Reiné Watch on Netflix The 2021 Spanish comedy So My Grandma’s a Lesbian follows Eva, a woman engaged to a member of a prominent and ultraconservative family who discovers her grandma plans to marry her best friend. Don’t be fooled by the truly awful title — the Spanish original, “Salir del Ropero,” literally means “Coming Out of the Closet” — because the film is a heartwarming story about coming out in your golden years. Powered by a charming performance from Rosa María Sardà, the film is the rare story that places an older woman in the spotlight.

Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado (2020) 76% 76% [website] [website] 96m Genre Documentary Stars Walter Mercado, Willy Acosta, Lin-Manuel Miranda Directed by Kareem Tabsch, Cristina Costantini Watch on Netflix The late Walter Mercado was among the most crucial astrologers in the world and a cultural icon in Latin America. His influence spread across every Central American and Latin American country, with audiences loyally following his teachings. The 2020 documentary Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado gives viewers a closer look into his life and career, chronicling his rise to fame and success and discussing his lasting influence in Latin American television.

Dance of the Forty One (2020) [website] [website] 99m Genre Drama, History Stars Alfonso Herrera, Emiliano Zurita, Fernando Becerril Directed by David Pablos Watch on Netflix Based on the real-life scandal that took place in Mexico in the early 20th century, The Dance of the Forty-One stars Alfonso Herrera and Emiliano Zurita. The film is a fictionalized take on the events leading to the eponymous event, a party of gay men, many of whom were dressed as women. Featuring impressive production values and compelling performances, The Dance of the Forty-One is a well-crafted and well-told portrayal of a pivotal moment in Mexican history.

Cobalt Blue (2022) [website] [website] 112m Genre Romance, Drama Stars Prateik Babbar, Neelay Mehendale, Anjali Sivaraman Directed by Sachin Kundalkar Watch on Netflix The Hindi-language LGBTQ+ drama Cobalt Blue is a poignant portrayal of same-sex pairings and their often confrontational relationship with traditions. The film centers on an aspiring author and his sister, who both fall for the enigmatic and attractive guest at their home. As their dynamics with him evolve, their traditional family faces a reckoning.

I Care a Lot (2021) 66% 66% [website] [website] 119m Genre Comedy, Crime, Thriller, Drama Stars Rosamund Pike, Peter Dinklage, Eiza González Directed by J Blakeson Watch on Netflix Rosamund Pike delivers a wickedly-delicious, Golden Globe-winning performance leading an ensemble including Peter Dinklage, Eiza González, Chris Messina, and Diane Wiest in J Blakeson’s scathing satirical comedy I Care a Lot. The film centers on Marla Grayson, a court-appointed guardian who exploits her elderly charges while putting them in involuntary assisted living facilities. However, things get complicated when she tries to scam the mother of a dangerous gangster, putting her in a potentially deathly situation.

Single All the Way (2021) 49% 49% [website] [website] 99m Genre Romance, Comedy, Drama Stars Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers, Luke Macfarlane Directed by Michael Mayer Watch on Netflix Who doesn’t love a great Christmas movie, even if it’s not yet Christmas? Single All the Way stars Michael Urie as Peter, a in the recent past-separated man who wants to avoid his family’s scrutiny over being single during the holidays. Persuading his best friend, Nick, to pose as his boyfriend for the trip, the two travel to Peter’s family’s home. However, their ruse soon reveals the lingering feelings between them. Philemon Chambers, Like Macfarlane, Kathy Najimy, and Jennifer Coolidge also star.

Bruised (2021) 52% 52% [website] [website] 129m Genre Drama Stars Halle Berry, Adan Canto, Sheila Atim Directed by Halle Berry Watch on Netflix Halle Berry delivers her finest performance in years with her directorial debut, Bruised. The Oscar-winning actress stars as Jackie, an aging and disgraced former MMA fighter forced to face the consequences of her life’s choices when the son she hasn’t seen for years reveals up at her doorstep. With one last shot to get her life back on track, Jackie starts a new chapter in her personal and boxing journeys, but the demons of her past refuse to let go.

Dumplin' (2018) 53% 53% [website] [website] pg-13 110m 110m Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Danielle Macdonald, Jennifer Aniston, Odeya Rush Directed by Anne Fletcher Watch on Netflix Willowdean (Danielle Macdonald) is the plus-sized, teenage daughter of her small Texas town’s most legendary beauty queen (Jennifer Aniston). Today, her mom runs that local pageant and, just to prove how shallow-minded the pageant is, Willowdean signs up to compete. What starts as a mother-daughter spat, however, escalates into a full-on protest as other outcasts follow Willowdean’s steps to enter the pageant — all spurred on by a group of drag queens who refuse to let the girls settle for less.

The Prom (2020) 55% 55% [website] [website] pg-13 132m 132m Genre Comedy, Music, Romance Stars Meryl Streep, James Corden, Nicole Kidman Directed by Ryan Murphy Watch on Netflix It’s not as good as it should be given the outrageously talented cast, and James Corden got perhaps one of the most undeserved Golden Globe nominations ever for it, but The Prom is nonetheless fun in a Ryan Murphy all-out glitz and glam sort of way. When a group of Broadway has-beens sees a news story about a small Indiana town that won’t let a teen go to the prom with her girlfriend, they flock to the town in an attempt to revitalize their careers through some performative activism. But soon, they find they might have more depth than they even realized themselves.

Let It Snow (2019) 51% 51% [website] [website] pg-13 93m 93m Genre Romance, Comedy Stars Joan Cusack, Isabela Merced, Odeya Rush Directed by Luke Snellin Watch on Netflix Adapted from the novel of the same name by Maureen Johnson, Let It Snow is the story of a small town called Waffle Town. Julie Reyes (Isabela Merced), a high school senior who has been accepted to Columbia University, is nervous to leave her ailing mother alone in [website] When a snowstorm hits the community on Christmas Eve, Julie and her circle of acquaintances will discover the true meaning of the holiday when relationships crack open, romances are revealed, and new futures are created. A pleasant watch for the holiday season and any other time of year, Let It Snow will win you over in more ways than one.

The Half of It (2020) 74% 74% [website] [website] pg-13 104m 104m Genre Comedy, Romance Stars Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, Alexxis Lemire Directed by Alice Wu Watch on Netflix Dubbed a loose retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac adjusted to fit the times, Ellie is a shy and lonely teenager who is often commissioned by fellow students to do their homework. She’s more than happy to do so and charges a fee to help her family make ends meet. But she gets a strange request when the school jock, Paul, asks her to ghostwrite love letters on his behalf to his crush, Aster. It works well at the start until Ellie begins to fall for Aster herself, which complicates the situation for everyone involved. It’s a sweet story of what truly makes people fall for one another and the importance of being true and honest to oneself.

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) 87% 87% [website] [website] r 94m 94m Genre Drama, Music Stars Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman Directed by George C. Wolfe Watch on Netflix This multi-Oscar-nominated film based on the August Wilson play of the same name stars Viola Davis as the title character, a blues singer from the 1920s. Davis mesmerizingly transforms into the influential woman who was not only a talented singer but also an advocate for Black and LGBTQ+ rights, even if she wasn’t as overtly outspoken as others. Rainey made no apologies for her lifestyle, openly dating women at a time when the mere thought was taboo, particularly for a woman of color. While the movie is worth watching for the incredible performances alone, including the late Chadwick Boseman as the ambitious trumpeter Levee Green, it’s an key film that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

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The best shows on Max (formerly HBO Max) right now

Max has some fantastic demonstrates returning later this year, with new seasons of The Righteous Gemstones, Peacemaker, and The Last of Us. Thankfully, however, you don’t have to wait another few months for some of Max’s top-tier demonstrates. This month, for example, The White Lotus returns for its third season, now set in Thailand with an (almost) entirely new cast. There are also other favorites coming back with new seasons, like Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and the latest demonstrates worth checking out, like the medical drama The Pitt.

Max, HBO’s streaming service, has legacy content from the parent network, too. Think everything from The Sopranos to Game of Thrones. So if you want to finally jump on the bandwagon for that high-profile show you never watched, Max has you covered. Check out our picks of the best demonstrates on Max (formerly HBO Max) right now for plenty of ideas to occupy your lazy night in.

Need more recommendations? Then check out the best new displays to stream this week, as well as the best displays on Netflix, best displays on Hulu, best displays on Amazon Prime Video, and the best displays on Disney+.

The White Lotus (2021) Play 82% 82% [website] [website] tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Comedy, Drama, Mystery Stars Alexandra Daddario, Jake Lacy, Connie Britton, Steve Zahn, Jennifer Coolidge, Murray Bartlett, Sydney Sweeney, Brittany O'Grady Created by Mike White Watch on max It’s probably a good thing that the chain of White Lotus luxury resorts isn’t real. Because the vacations go completely off the rails, even before the dead bodies start showing up. The guests are made up of the wealthy, elite, and entitled, each set with their own eccentricities and secrets. Initially planned as a single season, The White Lotus is already in its third with a fourth confirmed. Each one is set in a different location and follows an odd assortment of guests and the beleaguered hotel staff who labor to keep them happy. It works well as a comedy and a drama. While every season has a new cast of guests and staff in a completely different cultural setting, you’ll relish comparing one to the next. The latest third season capabilities a star-studded cast, including everyone from Parker Posey to Walton Goggins. The White Lotus: Official Trailer | HBO.

The Pitt (2025) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama Stars Noah Wyle, Tracy Ifeachor, Patrick Ball Created by R. Scott Gemmill Watch on max Combine Grey’s Anatomy with 24, and you have The Pitt. The medical drama is structured like an episode of 24, with every hour-long episode representing a real-time hour within the emergency department of a trauma hospital. At the center of the madness and sometimes somber calm is Dr. Michael “Robby” Rabinavitch (Noah Wyle), the senior attending doctor who manages his demanding job while internally dealing with the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic. Wyle knows the genre well, having previously starred in ER, and he brings that expertise to the role. The series also follows a group of medical residents just learning of the pressures and demands of the job, along with the heartache that comes with it. The Pitt has secured a 93% Rotten Tomatoes rating, suggesting this may be your next new medical drama guilty pleasure.

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (2014) tv-ma 12 Seasons 12 Seasons Genre Talk, Comedy, News Stars John Oliver Created by John Oliver Watch on max The recipient of more than two dozen Primetime Emmy Awards, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but as far as satirical news/late night presents go, Oliver really has the market cornered. It’s all for good reason: he’s hilariously engaging, bitingly honest, and never shies away from any topic or stance, no matter how controversial. Renewed through 2026, Last Week Tonight With John Oliver sparks debate and conversation, presenting the American news in a way that both educates and lightens the mood. Oliver’s sharp tongue, passion for the topics he talks about, and perspective as a British outsider help bring some of his points home.

Craig of the Creek (2018) tv-y7 6 Seasons 6 Seasons Genre Animation, Action & Adventure, Family, Kids, Comedy Stars Philip Solomon, Michael Croner, Noël Wells Created by Matt Burnett, Ben Levin Watch on max Lauded for the way the series presents themes of friendship and diversity, Craig of the Creek aired for six seasons, ending its run in January 2025. It’s the type of animated show you can watch anytime with your little ones. Follow the story of Craig (Philip Solomon), a 10-year-old boy who adventures to the local creek with his best friends. This creek, however, transforms into a magical world where kids are in charge. From tree forts to dirt bike ramps, anything goes because kids make up all the rules. There are positive messages behind Craig of the Creek and a goal of helping kids work on self-discovery and expressing their own individuality. Pop on an episode every day after school to watch with your kids.

Creature Commandos (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Animation, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action & Adventure Stars Indira Varma, Sean Gunn, Alan Tudyk Created by James Gunn Watch on max We can’t get enough of DC Comics and the various movies and TV show interpretations. One of the latest is Creature Commandos, an adult animated superhero series that focuses on Amanda Waller’s elite black ops team of monsters. The series takes place after the events in The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker season 1. It’s written by James Gunn, who directed all three Guardians of the Galaxy movies along with The Suicide Squad, so you can expect fantastic storytelling, visuals, and performances. Our reviewer loves the blend of heart, comedy, and “ruthless action,” praising Gunn’s obvious genuine love for comic books and superheroes that shines through in every episode. “It’s a series that is ultimately propelled along by a real, infectious love for its characters,” he adds. You’ll hear some familiar voices, including Zoë Chao, David Harbour, Maria Bakalova, Viola Davis, Stephanie Beatriz, and Michael Rooker.

Harley Quinn (2019) 88% 88% [website] [website] tv-ma 5 Seasons 5 Seasons Genre Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Animation, Crime, Action & Adventure, Comedy Stars Kaley Cuoco, Lake Bell Created by Dean Lorey, Patrick Schumacker, Justin Halpern Watch on max Unlike many previous incarnations, this version of Harley Quinn (Based on a True Story‘s Kaley Cuoco) is going out on her own alongside a new crew: Clayface (Alan Tudyk), Doctor Psycho (Tony Hale), and King Shark (Ron Funches). But just as Harley comes within reach of taking over Gotham City’s underworld, she realizes that she has romantic feelings for her best friend, Poison Ivy (Lake Bell). Unfortunately for Harley, Ivy isn’t initially willing to act on this love. Batman isn’t faring any better, as his fading romance with Catwoman becomes a recurring gag on the series. Our reviewer names this version of Harley Quinn as the best of all the Harley Quinns, calling Cuoco’s performance “mercurial, intense, foul-mouthed, and passionate, an antihero for the modern age.” Harley Quinn puts Harley front and center, where she should be.

Bookie (2023) tv-ma 2 Seasons 2 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Sebastian Maniscalco, Omar J. Dorsey, Jorge Garcia Created by Nick Bakay, Chuck Lorre Watch on max Created by Chuck Lorre, Bookie is a hilarious and oddly relatable dark comedy about Danny (Sebastian Maniscalco), a bookie in Los Angeles threatened by the potential legalization of sports gambling in the state. Now, he must settle debts with his unstable client list and make some risky bets himself to keep his head above water. Making money in this changing landscape means putting his charms and conning skills to good use. Also starring in Bookie is Omar J. Dorsey as a former NFL player and Danny’s best friend, Vanessa Ferlito as Danny’s sister and side hustler Lorraine, and Jorge Garcia as reformed drug dealer Hector. The list of guest stars in season 2 includes notable names like Charlie Sheen, Ray Romano, and Zach Braff.

Dune: Prophecy (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama Stars Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Jodhi May Created by Diane Ademu-John, Alison Schapker Watch on max Set 10,000 years prior to the ascension of Paul Atreides, Dune: Prophecy is inspired by the Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson novel Sisterhood of Dune. The six-episode series follows two Harkonnen sisters, Valya (Emily Watson) and Tula (Olivia Williams), who are battling forces that threaten humankind. To do so, they must undergo intense training to eventually help them acquire superhuman abilities. The show follows their journey and the establishment of the sect known as the Bene Gesserit. A companion podcast will be available following each episode of the show. This will offer further insight from the creators and cast, making the show and podcast a perfect new watch (and listen) for die-hard Dune franchise fans.

The Newsroom (2012) tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Drama Stars Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, John Gallagher Jr. Created by Aaron Sorkin Watch on max Jeff Daniels shines in this Aaron Sorkin political drama as Will McAvoy, an anchor for a cable news channel whose working world gets thrown a loop when his ex-girlfriend, MacKenzie McHale (Emily Mortimer), is hired as his new executive producer. Together, they try to navigate the murky waters of the political, corporate, commercial, and media landscapes. But Mac’s desire to shake things up doesn’t fit with Will’s hardheaded, stubborn personality and unwillingness to change his onscreen persona and style. The Newsroom has an incredible cast and engaging episodes where art imitates life; the headlines often reflect real ones happening at the time. It’s like peeling back the curtain to see inside a newsroom and learn about the inner workings of how broadcasts are handled and breaking news is covered. The Newsroom was initially met with mixed reviews, which improved for its second and third seasons. Nonetheless, McAvoy’s long speech that kicks off the pilot episode, answering a student’s question “Why is America the greatest country in the world?” will have you gripped from the get-go and wanting more.

The Sex Lives of College Girls (2021) Play 72% 72% tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Pauline Chalamet, Amrit Kaur, Reneé Rapp Created by Mindy Kaling, Justin Noble Watch on max College is typically where young people figure out who they are and occasionally experiment while establishing their sexual identities. That’s largely the premise of The Sex Lives of College Girls, which is admittedly a lot funnier than real-life college adventures. Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet), Bela (Amrit Kaur), Leighton (Reneé Rapp), and Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott) all come from different backgrounds, and they take very different approaches to their sex lives. For example, Leighton is a closeted lesbian, while Bela is very enthusiastic about being sex-positive. But it’s bonds of friendship that ground this show and give the laughs greater context. The Sex Lives of College Girls | Official Trailer | HBO Max.

The West Wing (1999) 78% 78% [website] [website] tv-14 7 Seasons 7 Seasons Genre Drama Stars Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, Richard Schiff Created by Aaron Sorkin Watch on max Martin Sheen plays President Josiah Bartlet in this long-running Aaron Sorkin serial political drama. It’s one of Sheen’s most memorable roles, and it’s not uncommon to find this show on every list of the best TV series of all time. Known for popularizing the long hallway walk-and-talk shots that have become commonplace in political dramas, The West Wing approaches the White House in such a way that has sparked conversation, with some questioning its legitimacy and exaggerations. But it is a television show, after all, designed to entertain. And it’s a must-watch, not only for the compelling stories about the inner workings of politics but also for the talented performances from the top-notch cast.

Veep (2012) Play 82% 82% [website] [website] tv-ma 7 Seasons 7 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale Created by Armando Iannucci Watch on max Julia Louis-Dreyfus won six consecutive Emmy Awards for playing Selina Meyer, the fictional vice president (later president) of the United States in this political satire comedy that wrapped in 2019. The series itself also received critical acclaim throughout its seven-season run. Fans couldn’t get enough of watching Meyer and her team as they engaged in political games. The show calls out and exaggerates the absurdity of politics in a way that makes it universally funny. Veep: Season 1 | Official Trailer | HBO.

Somebody Somewhere (2022) tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Bridget Everett, Mike Hagerty, Jeff Hiller Created by Hannah Bos, Paul Thureen Watch on max Receiving rave reviews for its first two seasons, Somebody, Somewhere is a comedy-drama starring comedian, actor, singer, writer, and cabaret performer Bridget Everett. She’s a woman named Sam dealing with a midlife crisis following the death of her sister. The series will conclude with the third and final season. Inspired by Everett’s real life, the show boasts a perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating. The Daily Beast’s Kevin Fallon simply says that “Bridget Everett is a force” while Theo Estes of The Spool relates the show’s brilliance to “the way it weaves between the hilarity and drama of the mundane.”.

The Penguin (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Crime, Drama Stars Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz Created by Lauren LeFranc Watch on max Colin Farrell impressed as the DC Comics villain Penguin in the 2022 movie The Batman. Now, that film has received a series spinoff centered around the creepy character, and Farrell is donning the makeup once again to take on the persona of the criminal underworld mastermind. In The Penguin, the title character has begun to rise up the ranks of power following the death of crime boss Carmine Falcone. Similar to movies like Joker, The Penguin dives deeper into the psyche of the disfigured character, exploring the damaged man that exists beneath the villainous exterior. With Farrell describing the show as violent and heavy (per Variety), expect a slight departure from the usual comic book fare. However, it falls in line with those darker displays and movies that are becoming commonplace within this genre. The Penguin premieres on September 19, 2024.

Abbott Elementary (2021) tv-pg 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Sheryl Lee Ralph Created by Quinta Brunson Watch on max Abbott Elementary has been lauded for its relatability. Presented in mockumentary style, Abbott Elementary is an honest look at the trials and tribulations of the public school system. The story begins with a documentary crew recording teachers working in underfunded schools. The sitcom’s creator, Quinta Brunson, also stars as Janine, a second-grade teacher navigating life with her colleagues, students, and the school’s tone-deaf principal. While every day is a challenge, the teachers simply want to do the best for their kids. But that’s easier stated than done. With multiple Emmy wins, Abbott Elementary is a must-watch for anyone with kids and for teachers, who will be nodding their heads the whole way through.

Industry (2020) 72% 72% 7/10 7/10 tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Drama Stars Myha'la, Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey Created by Mickey Down, Konrad Kay Watch on max The corporate world can be cut-throat, especially when there are so many young and talented people all vying for a limited number of jobs. In this British drama, the jobs in question are at a prestigious investment bank in London. The story in Industry begins with a recent group of graduates, who all vie for the hottest gigs in town in finance. It’s a race to the finish line for a seat at the corporate table, and these young adults aren’t about to let that opportunity slide. Now three seasons in, Industry has filled the gaping hole left by demonstrates like Succession for a corporate-themed drama about greedy people willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead and make money. Industry’s salacious, devious characters include some returning from season 2 along with a few new faces. Among these is Kit Harington in season 3, who plays Henry Muck, CEO of a green tech energy firm. If you love demonstrates like Succession and Billions, Industry will be right up your alley.

Kite Man: Hell Yeah! (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Animation, Comedy Stars Matt Oberg, Stephanie Hsu, James Adomian Created by Dean Lorey, Justin Halpern, Patrick Schumacker Watch on max This adult animated black comedy superhero series is centered around the DC Comics character Kite Man (voiced by Matt Oberg) and follows his adventures alongside girlfriend Golden Glider (Stephanie Hsu). Set as a spinoff of Harley Quinn in which the title character appeared with ex-fiancé Poison Ivy, Kite Man and Golden Glider steal the money needed to buy the seedy Noonan’s dive bar, which they vow to make a destination spot for all types of dark characters in Gotham City. Featuring the voice of the late Lance Reddick as Lex Luthor, Kite Man: Hell Yeah! was met with praise for its first season. Keep an ear out for a talented cast of other voice actors, including Jonathan Banks (Breaking Bad, improved Call Saul) as Sean Noonan and Michael Imperioli (The Sopranos, The White Lotus) as Joe/Moe Dubelz. Maintaining a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes audience score, critics love the show. Decider’s Johnny Loftus calls it a ”fun, foul-mouthed send-up of the superhero genre with expressive voice acting and a gleeful murderous streak that guarantees its NSFW-ness.”.

House of the Dragon (2022) Play 68% 68% [website] [website] tv-ma 2 Seasons 2 Seasons Genre Drama, Action & Adventure, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery Stars Paddy Considine, Matt Smith, Rhys Ifans Created by George R. R. Martin, Ryan Condal Watch on max Anyone who claimed that fans didn’t care about Game of Thrones after the divisive final season turned out to be quite wrong. House of the Dragon has proven to be a monster hit. Milly Alcock stars as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen before eventually relinquishing the role to Emma D’Arcy. Following the death of her mother and her infant brother, Rhaenyra was named heir to the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. However, her childhood best friend, Lady Alicent Hightower (Emily Carey), has married Rhaenyra’s father and become the new queen. And as the queen becomes a woman (played by Olivia Cooke), her rivalry with her former friend throws House Targaryen into turmoil. The intensity continues as the fight grows between Team Black and Team Green in season 2. A civil war is brewing, and the dynamic is more heated than ever as loyalties are tested and allegiances fractured. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones and know of the history of the Targaryen side, you’ll be expecting the blood-soaked, violent, quest for power that is House of the Dragon. House of the Dragon | Official Trailer | HBO Max.

The Sympathizer (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama, Comedy Stars Hoa Xuande, Robert Downey Jr., Toan Le Created by Don McKellar, Park Chan-wook Watch on max Based on the Viet Thanh Nguyen novel of the same name that earned a Pulitzer Prize, The Sympathizer is about the Captain (Hoa Xuande), a police captain in Saigon who is secretly working as a plant in the South Vietnam army. While living with other South Vietnamese refugees after fleeing to the [website] following the Vietnam War, he continues to work as a spy, reporting back to the Viet Cong. But as he becomes further entrenched in this new life, The Captain’s loyalties are tested. The Sympathizer aspects a predominantly Vietnamese cast and Vietnamese dialogue, at the insistence of Nguyen. Robert Downey Jr., however, also appears in several roles, including as a CIA agent, a grad school professor, an auteur filmmaker, and a California congressman. Delivered in the style of a historical black comedy drama, the miniseries disguises essential subject matter behind a lens of comedy, and handles it brilliantly. Digital Trends’ Alex Welch calls the series a ”masterful spy thriller” that is “thematically rich [and] stylistically refreshing.”.

Conan O'Brien Must Go (2024) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Documentary, Comedy Stars Conan O'Brien Created by Conan O'Brien Watch on max There’s an influx of travel and adventure docuseries starring celebrities, and Conan O’Brien is the latest to enter the mix. In his new travel show Conan O’Brien Must Go, the former late-night talk show hosts brings his quirky humor on the road in episodes that feel like extended versions of some of his most popular late-night remote segments. Through the episodes, he travels to locations like Norway, Thailand, and Ireland, where he visits fans in person that were featured on his podcast series’ Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend and Conan Without Borders. This includes Norwegian rapper Jarle and Thai rock climber Whitney. O’Brien’s signature self-deprecating humor is on full display, bringing to life the podcasts in a way that could never be done through a video screen. Conan O’Brien Must Go is only four episodes long, but the show will have you belly laughing the entire way through, and missing O’Brien’s joyful presence in late night.

Hacks (2021) 81% 81% [website] [website] tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins Created by Jen Statsky, Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs Watch on max HBO Max’s Hacks has discovered a winning formula through its three seasons to date. Jean Smart plays Deborah Vance, an aging comedian whose material just isn’t hitting anymore despite her obvious talent. At the same time, TV writer Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder) is in danger of losing everything she built over some poorly chosen social media posts. However, Ava’s gift for comedy may be just the thing that Deborah needs to reinvigorate her act. And while there is definitely a friendship of sorts between Deborah and Ava, the show’s funniest moments come when they are at odds with each other.

Entourage (2004) tv-ma 8 Seasons 8 Seasons Genre Comedy, Drama Stars Kevin Connolly, Adrian Grenier, Kevin Dillon Created by Doug Ellin Watch on max Mark Wahlberg executive produced this comedy drama that’s loosely based on his life, and it became a huge hit, airing for eight seasons. The central character in Entourage is Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier), a young actor who becomes massively famous and brings his group of childhood friends, aka his “entourage,” along with him for the wild ride. He hires his best friend. Eric (Kevin Connolly). as his manager. Joining the pair in their antics are Vinny’s older half-brother, Johnny “Drama” (Kevin Dillon), a much less successful actor, and friend, Turtle (Jerry Ferrara), who both try to find purpose, but mostly love to reap the benefits of Vinny’s fame. Jeremy Piven, meanwhile, stars as Vince’s egotistical and temperamental agent Ari Gold. The episodes follow the expected exploits of four young men thrust into a world of fame, money, women, and excess in every sense of the word. It’s raunchy, deeply entertaining, and capabilities tons of celebrity cameos through the seasons. Whether you love Wahlberg or not, Entourage stands on its own as a slick series about the dark and dirty temptations of fame.

Young Sheldon (2017) tv-pg 7 Seasons 7 Seasons Genre Comedy, Family Stars Iain Armitage, Zoe Perry, Lance Barber Created by Chuck Lorre, Steven Molaro Watch on max Ending after its seventh and final season, Young Sheldon is a worthy follow-up prequel series to The Big Bang Theory, telling the childhood story of Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons, Iain Armitage in this show). Narrated by Parsons himself and filled with Easter Eggs and references to moments Sheldon recalled in the original show, Armitage beautifully captures the essence of Sheldon’s massive ego and superiority complex, even as a young boy. Offering up an equal dose of touching and hilarious moments, Young Sheldon takes fans into the life of a middle-class family in the late 1980s and early ’90s, complete with the beer- and football-loving dad, George (Lance Barber), and the deeply religious Southern Baptist mom, Mary (Zoe Perry). With a fabulous supporting cast that includes Annie Potts as Sheldon’s grandmother Connie (Meemaw) and actors like Wallace Shawn, Craig T. Nelson, and Reba McEntire in recurring roles, Young Sheldon is just as engaging as The Big Bang Theory.

The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst (2015) tv-ma 2 Seasons 2 Seasons Genre Documentary, Crime Stars Robert Durst Watch on max This documentary miniseries took the world by storm when it presented the story of convicted murderer and New York real estate heir Robert Durst. The timing couldn’t have been advanced for the release of The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst back in 2015 since Durst was arrested and charged with the first-degree murder of his friend Susan Berman just a day prior to the airing of the finale. From there, a web of lies was uncovered, revealing details about the unsolved disappearance of his wife Kathie back in 1982 as well as the death and dismemberment of his neighbor Morris Black. That pivotal moment when Durst confessed his crimes during a bathroom break, unaware that his microphone was still on and recording, became a sort of smoking gun and shocked the nation. Returning with a six-episode second-season continuation called The Jinx – Part 2, those intrigued and horrified by the case can hear more about what has transpired in the last eight years, including new interviews, material, and Durst’s own prison calls. Durst passed away in January 2022, but his story remains one of the most fascinating and heinous ones of celebrity crime.

The Big Bang Theory (2007) tv-14 12 Seasons 12 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco Created by Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady Watch on max One of the most iconic sitcoms of the 2000s and 2010s, The Big Bang Theory spawned an equally successful prequel spin-off called Young Sheldon, which is also available to stream. The story centers around a group of self-professed science nerds navigating daily life in California, all working at Caltech University. It begins when Penny (Kaley Cuoco), a beautiful young waitress and aspiring actress, moves into the apartment across the hall from Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki), and the socially awkward men attempt to befriend her. Featuring a fabulous ensemble cast that was, at one point in time, among the highest-paid actors on TV, The Big Bang Theory is filled with complex dialogue and scientific jargon. Yet the jokes and running gags hit beautifully, whether you understand what they’re talking about or not. It’s the type of show you can watch and re-watch and laugh every time. The series earned 46 nominations through its 12-season run, with Parsons winning Outstanding Leader Actor in a Comedy Series four times in a row.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990) tv-pg 6 Seasons 6 Seasons Genre Comedy, Family Stars Will Smith, James Avery, Alfonso Ribeiro Created by Andy Borowitz, Susan Borowitz Watch on max One of the defining sitcoms of the ‘90s, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air starred Will Smith before he became a massive A-list Hollywood movie celebrity. It’s a fish-out-of-water story about a young man from West Philadelphia who is sent by his mother to live with his wealthy aunt and uncle in Bel-Air. Will’s mom worries he’s going down the wrong path and wants to give him a enhanced chance at life. At first, Will is at odds with the family members who don’t see eye-to-eye with him, along with the uppity lifestyle to which he isn’t accustomed. But the family comes together as he acclimates to them and they to him. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is ground-breaking in so many ways. Along with plenty of humor and heart, the sitcom tackles serious issues about race, violence, and family strife. A darker, more dramatic reimagining called Bel-Air is available to stream on Peacock.

True Detective (2014) tv-ma 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Drama Stars Jodie Foster, Kali Reis, Finn Bennett Created by Nic Pizzolatto Watch on max True Detective has three full seasons under its belt, with fans enduring a five-year wait for season 4. The anthology crime drama has a different story in every season, along with a completely different cast, with names like Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Rachel McAdams, Taylor Kitsch, Colin Farrell, Vince Vaughn, Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff and, most in recent times, Jodie Foster in Detective Country, counted among the leads. A different crime is at the heart of every season, along with the authorities investigating it. Every season capabilities enticing twists and turns and tells thought-provoking stories, all driven by incredible performances from the respective casts. The scene shifts to chilly Alaska in season 4. Consistently, each new narrative in True Detective (season 2 excepted, perhaps) gets darker and more haunting.

Rick and Morty (2013) 87% 87% [website] [website] tv-ma 7 Seasons 7 Seasons Genre Animation, Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action & Adventure Stars Justin Roiland, Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer Created by Dan Harmon, Justin Roiland Watch on max Rick Sanchez is a mad scientist who reappears after having gone missing for 20 years. He now lives with his daughter and her family, including his grandson, Morty Smith. Together, he and Morty navigate regular daily life along with interdimensional adventures. The animated sci-fi sitcom has been a staple on Adult Swim (and Max). The show has been lauded by critics and audiences alike , who have called it kooky and described the storylines as “densely plotted science fiction escapades” and “intricately hilarious misadventures.”.

Silicon Valley (2014) tv-ma 6 Seasons 6 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Thomas Middleditch, Zach Woods, Kumail Nanjiani Created by Mike Judge, John Altschuler, Dave Krinsky Watch on max Mike Judge has come a long way from his Beavis and Butt-Head days. While Judge has previously directed live-action comedy films, Silicon Valley gave him an even bigger platform to expand his mastery of the medium. The series follows programmer Richard Hendricks (Thomas Middleditch) as he and his friends try to launch a new startup enterprise called Pied Piper. Their trials and tribulations run the gamut from hilarious to dramatic. Judge and his co-creators assembled a talented supporting cast that includes [website] Miller, Kumail Nanjiani, Martin Starr, and Amanda Crew, nearly all of whom have gone on to even bigger things after the show’s six-season run. Silicon Valley is heavy on tech industry references, so anyone who understands the space will get every insider reference and joke, and theorize about what real-life tech CEOs, billionaires, and investors various characters were likely modeled around. But even those who aren’t so entrenched in the tech space will laugh the entire way through at the absurd “nerd” humor.

Friends (1994) tv-14 10 Seasons 10 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow Created by Marta Kauffman, David Crane Watch on max With the untimely passing of Matthew Perry, who’s most recognizable role was as Chandler Bing in this iconic sitcom, it’s a good time to binge all 10 seasons of Friends. Remember not only what makes the series part of pop culture history but also how fabulously hilarious Perry and the rest of the talented cast were in their roles. Relive some of the best episodes of Friends and the funny moments, quotable quotes, and sarcastic one-liners. Friends, which is about six twentysomethings living in New York City and navigating dating, careers, and life, originally aired from 1994 to 2004. That was long before social media, smartphones, and dating apps would have markedly changed its course. Despite the technological differences, the search for an adult identity, the on-again/off-again nature of relationships, and reliance on having people you can count on are still totally relatable today.

Our Flag Means Death (2022) 71% 71% [website] [website] tv-ma 2 Seasons 2 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Rhys Darby, Taika Waititi, Kristian Nairn Created by David Jenkins Watch on max Our Flag Means Death is one of the rare period comedies to emerge in a long time. The series is based upon the real life of Stede Bonnet (Rhys Darby), an aristocrat who just couldn’t live without some excitement in his life. That’s why Stede became a pirate captain. Unfortunately for Stede, he has no idea how to be a pirate, and the very real pirates in his crew could turn on him at any time. But thanks to Stede’s unexpected friendship with the legendary pirate Blackbeard (Taika Waititi), the crew of the Revenge might be able to make it on the high seas after all.

Doom Patrol (2019) tv-ma 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama Stars Diane Guerrero, April Bowlby, Joivan Wade Created by Jeremy Carver Watch on max With a star-studded cast including Brendan Fraser, Matt Bomer, April Bowlby, Timothy Dalton, Diane Guerrero, and Michelle Gomez, Doom Patrol is based on the DC Comics superhero team of the same name. Set in a different timeline from Titans (in which Bomer and Fraser have also appeared), Doom Patrol‘s unlikely heroes are not your typical superheroes: they received their powers through tragic means, and thus have become ostracized by society. Thanks to a medical doctor known as the Chief, however, they have found a home in his mansion, where he protects them from the normal citizens who want them gone.

The Righteous Gemstones (2019) tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars John Goodman, Danny McBride, Walton Goggins Created by Danny McBride Watch on max John Goodman heads up the ensemble cast in this Danny McBride-created black comedy crime series about a family of televangelists and megachurch pastors. They speak the word of the Lord, but their padded pocketbooks suggest they really speak the word of capitalism. The family’s opulent lifestyle also indicates that donations from parishioners are being used for a lot more than just giving back. Goodman is Eli Gemstone in The Righteous Gemstones, a widow who heads up the church/business, while his three children Jesse (McBride), Judy (Edi Patterson), and Kelvin (Adam DeVine) are involved in varying ways. But their immaturity and spoiled nature mean they’re not up to the task of actually running things. Called “uproariously funny,” reviews for The Righteous Gemstones get improved with each season.

Barry (2018) 85% 85% [website] [website] tv-ma 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Comedy, Crime Stars Bill Hader, Stephen Root, Henry Winkler Created by Bill Hader, Alec Berg Watch on max Barry Berkman (Bill Hader) is facing the ultimate test of his character in Barry. After spending years as a professional assassin, Barry discovers a love of acting and decides to pursue it as his new vocation. However, the people who knew Barry in his previous life keep pulling him back into a mess of murder and mayhem. Now that Barry’s secret has been exposed to someone close to him, it’s only a matter of time before his world goes to pieces again. Barry ends with a fourth and final season.

Succession (2018) Play 83% 83% [website] [website] tv-ma 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Drama, Comedy Stars Hiam Abbass, Nicholas Braun, Brian Cox, Kieran Culkin, Peter Friedman, Natalie Gold, Matthew Macfadyen Created by Jesse Armstrong Watch on max With several Emmy wins under its belt, including Outstanding Drama Series, Succession has become one of HBO’s most popular series. Waystar Royco is a global media and hospitality empire headed up by the cutthroat, cruel Logan Roy. As he reaches retirement age and suffers a health setback, he must look to his rich and entitled children to find a successor. But who of his four children, from the arrogant playboy to the power-hungry and visionary addict, is really ready and deserving? And will Logan ever be ready to hand over the reins anyway? The question of who will take over hovers above every episode and season as the organization, Logan, and the Roy family engage in dirty tactics, flaunt their wealth, and find themselves constantly embroiled in controversy. With everything coming to a head in the fourth and final season, Succession is poised to go down in history as not only one of the best presents on HBO, but also one of the best presents of this decade, period. Succession: Season 1 | Official Trailer | HBO.

The Last of Us (2023) tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action & Adventure Stars Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna Created by Craig Mazin, Neil Druckmann Watch on max Pedro Pascal stars in this post-apocalyptic drama as Joel, a smuggler transporting a teenage girl named Ellie (Bell Ramsey) out of a quarantine zone and across the [website], two decades after the end of modern civilization. Through the brutal journey, the two must rely on one another more than they realized, but Joel has his own demons, tormented by his past. Considered to be the largest TV production ever in Canada (it was filmed in Alberta) and the first from HBO to be based on a video game, The Last of Us boasts an impressive supporting cast as well. This includes Gabriel Luna (Marvel’s Agents of [website] as Tommy, Joel’s younger brother and a hopeful former soldier, and Merle Dandridge as Marlene, head of a resistance movement, who is reprising her role from the video games. Guest stars include Murray Bartlett (The White Lotus) and Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation) as survivalists, and Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets) as the leader of a revolutionary movement.

His Dark Materials (2019) 69% 69% [website] [website] tv-14 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama Stars Dafne Keen, Ruth Wilson, James McAvoy, Lin-Manuel Miranda Created by Jack Throne Watch on max Dafne Keen turned a lot of heads with her star-making turn in Logan. But she’s really stepped up in HBO and BBC’s adaptation of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials. In an alternate world where souls appear as companion animals, Keen plays Lyra, a young girl who finds herself torn between her uncle, Lord Asriel Belacqua (James McAvoy), and the enigmatic Mrs. Coulter (Ruth Wilson). Meanwhile, in a world very much like our own, young Will Parry (Amir Wilson) learns a family secret that will bring him inexorably closer to Lyra. This family-friendly fantasy is still unfolding, but it’s a winner for fans of all ages.

Peacemaker (2022) Play 69% 69% [website] [website] tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Action & Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy Stars John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma Created by James Gunn Watch on max Peacemaker is about as far from the A-list of superheroes that you can possibly get. And yet the Peacemaker series is one of the most enjoyable DC-inspired programs of the past few years. John Cena reprises his role as Peacemaker/Christopher Smith from director James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad, and Gunn also returned to create this showcase for Cena. Within the series, Peacemaker finds that he’s no longer able to kill as easily as he used to, just at the moment his skills are needed to save the world from a very unexpected threat. This show also has some truly heartfelt moments along with great comedy and action. But fair warning: This series is absolutely not for kids. Peacemaker | Official Trailer | HBO Max.

Station Eleven (2021) Play 82% 82% [website] [website] tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy Stars Mackenzie Davis, Himesh Patel, Daniel Zovatto Created by Patrick Somerville Watch on max The Max (formerly HBO Max) adaptation of Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven hits differently after nearly two years in a real pandemic. Within the miniseries, most of humanity is wiped out by a virulent flu during a global pandemic. Years later, Kirsten (Mackenzie Davis) is a performer in a traveling troupe of actors. Unfortunately, the group’s journey is upended by a deadly cult. And soon, Kirsten finds her own life in danger when the cult comes after her. This is a very dark story, and yet also oddly uplifting at times. Because even in this bleak new world, there’s still hope. Station Eleven | Official Trailer | HBO Max.

Band of Brothers (2001) Play 87% 87% [website] [website] tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama, War & Politics Stars Damian Lewis, Donnie Wahlberg, Eion Bailey Watch on max Band of Brothers is the only show in HBO’s history that was created by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg after their collaboration on Saving Private Ryan. Erik Jendresen wrote and executive produced the miniseries that dramatized the story of the 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, which is better known as Easy Company. Each episode puts a different character in the spotlight and incorporates real history as Easy Company experiences every stage of war, from the beginning all the way to the end. ‘It’s Been a Long War, It’s Been a Tough War’ Trailer | Band of Brothers | HBO Classics.

Chernobyl (2019) 82% 82% [website] [website] tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Drama Stars Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson Created by Craig Mazin Watch on max The best way to describe HBO’s Chernobyl is to call it a historical tragedy. The miniseries dramatizes the 1986 Chernobyl disaster in the Soviet Union and the subsequent investigation into how it happened. This show doesn’t shy away from the most horrific aspects of radiation poisoning, and it’s not for the faint of heart. Jared Harris leads the ensemble cast as Valery Legasov, one of the lead investigators who personally oversees the Chernobyl cleanup efforts. As Valery searches for answers, he has to pay a high personal cost as well. No one emerges from Chernobyl unchanged by the experience.

Mare of Easttown (2021) 81% 81% [website] [website] tv-ma 1 Season 1 Season Genre Crime, Drama, Mystery Stars Kate Winslet, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart Created by Brad Ingelsby Watch on max Kate Winslet leads a magnificent cast in HBO’s latest miniseries, Mare of Easttown. Winslet plays Detective Sergeant Marianne Fahey “Mare” Sheehan, a woman haunted by her son’s suicide and the unsolved murder of a young girl a year earlier. In the present, Mare’s personal life is in turmoil as she deals with a divorce from her husband, Frank Sheehan (David Denman). Meanwhile, her former daughter-in-law, Carrie Layden (Sosie Bacon), is suing Mare for custody of her grandson, Drew. However, a new murder case will soon draw Mare into an even more intense web of danger and deceit.

Deadwood (2004) 85% 85% [website] [website] tv-ma 3 Seasons 3 Seasons Genre Western, Crime Stars Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker Created by David Milch Watch on max Deadwood was the HBO series that elevated expletives into high art. It was also an incredibly well-made Western that captured the post-Civil War period in Deadwood, South Dakota. Series creator David Milch populated the town with many real historical figures, including Al Swearengen (Ian McShane) and Sheriff Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant), in addition to original characters as the major players vie for control of the town. McShane’s performance was unforgettable even when paired with a stellar supporting cast. Regardless of how you feel about Westerns, you have to see Deadwood. It is legitimately one of the best presents that HBO has ever made.

Search Party (2016) 78% 78% [website] [website] tv-ma 4 Seasons 4 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Alia Shawkat, John Reynolds, John Early Created by Sarah-Violet Bliss, Charles Rogers Watch on max When an old college acquaintance named Chantal goes missing, Dory sets out on a mission to find her, with the help of her boyfriend and friends. While the others aren’t so keen on bothering with the investigation, Dory is convinced that Chantal is in danger. Initially dubbed a dark comedy, through its seasons, the series has adjusted the tone and genre. It starts with a classic mystery and Nancy Drew-like detective work, but things shift to more of a psychological thriller vibe for season 2. Season 3, meanwhile, is a subtle nod to courtroom drama narratives, inspired by the Amanda Knox trial, with satire sprinkled in reminiscent of The Bling Ring. There’s something unique with every season, but the tones all pay homage to some of the most revered film and television styles, so you get a bit of everything with this series.

The Wire (2002) 91% 91% [website] [website] tv-ma 5 Seasons 5 Seasons Genre Crime, Drama Stars Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Sonja Sohn Created by David Simon Watch on max Though it ended in 2008, this crime drama is still widely considered to be one of the best TV series of its generation. Created and written by former police reporter David Simon, it takes an authentic look at various institutions and their sometimes twisted and controversial relationships to law enforcement. A different story is introduced every season, tackling topics from the illegal drug trade to schools and education. With Dominic West and Idris Elba among the top-billed cast, it’s no surprise the series lasted a successful five seasons and appears on many “must-watch” lists.

Sex and the City (1998) 64% 64% [website] [website] tv-ma 6 Seasons 6 Seasons Genre Comedy Stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon Created by Darren Star Watch on max Live vicariously through four 30- and 40-something single friends in New York City navigating their hectic careers and dating lives in Sex and the City. The romantic comedy-drama, which debuted in 1998, is credited with helping put HBO on the map, and for good reason. Throughout its six seasons from 1998 to 2004, the show received 54 Emmy nominations (seven wins) and 24 Golden Globe nominations (eight wins) and spawned two feature films and even a prequel series. It remains a pop culture phenomenon that presents life, love, sex, and relationships in a raw, emotional, and honest way from the eyes of four very different adult women.

Game of Thrones (2011) 86% 86% [website] [website] tv-ma 8 Seasons 8 Seasons Genre Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Action & Adventure Stars Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Kit Harington, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams Created by David Benioff, D. B. Weiss Watch on max Chances are you’ve already watched this fantasy series, which was HBO’s anchor for eight seasons from 2011 through 2019. Based on the George [website] Martin series of fantasy novels , it was rich in scenery, costumes, and storylines depicting the fight for the Iron Throne among the various houses and individuals within the fictional world of Westeros. It broke viewership records for HBO, and it’s not uncommon for fans to watch this series from beginning to end, again and again, picking up on new details each time. If you haven’t yet watched, what are you waiting for?

The Sopranos (1999) 94% 94% [website] [website] tv-ma 6 Seasons 6 Seasons Genre Drama Stars James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Jamie-Lynn Sigler Created by David Chase Watch on max When it comes to crime dramas about mobster families, it doesn’t get much more effective than The Sopranos, which has been named on many lists as being one of the greatest TV series of all time. For six seasons, we followed the Soprano family led by Tony (the late James Gandolfini) as he attempted to balance his life in New Jersey as a father and husband and his position as the leader of an Italian-American criminal organization. It launched in 1999 and was among the first series to bring shocking main character deaths to the small screen, continuing the cliffhanger endings and cringeworthy moments through to its ending in 2007 with an iconic diner closing scene.

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