Since its launch in May 2020, HBO Max has gained momentum as a leading streaming platform for classic and contemporary entertainment. One of the platform’s major attractions is its range of original series, offering diverse genres, formats, and perspectives. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the best original series on HBO Max, from the most popular shows to the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Mare of Easttown
It is a gripping crime drama series starring Kate Winslet as a small-town detective investigating a murder case that turns out to be more complex than she anticipated. With superb acting, tight writing, and a vivid sense of place, the show captures the nuances of life in a community struggling with secrets, trauma, and loss. “Mare of Easttown” has become a critical and audience favorite, with many viewers hailing it as one of the best shows of 2021.
Succession
“Succession” is a darkly comedic drama that follows the Roy family, a wealthy and dysfunctional clan that runs a media empire. The show explores themes of power, ambition, family dynamics, and the corrosive effects of wealth and privilege. With a talented cast led by Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, and Sarah Snook, “Succession” has won numerous awards and critical acclaim, cementing its status as a must-watch show.
The Flight Attendant
“The Flight Attendant” is a zippy and suspenseful thriller starring Kaley Cuoco as a flight attendant who wakes up in a hotel room next to a dead man with no memory of what happened. As she tries to unravel the mystery and clear her name, she gets entangled in a web of lies, danger, and dark secrets. With stylish visuals, snappy dialogue, and a standout performance by Cuoco, “The Flight Attendant” is a fun and addictive show that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Euphoria
“Euphoria” is a bold and raw drama series that follows a group of high school students navigating love, sex, drugs, and identity in a world of social media, peer pressure, and trauma. With a visually stunning and provocative style, the show tackles sensitive and controversial topics with empathy and nuance, portraying the complexity and vulnerability of its characters with honesty and authenticity. Starring Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, and an ensemble of young talents, “Euphoria” has sparked conversations and controversies, making it one of the most talked-about shows of recent years.
Lovecraft Country
Lovecraft Country is a genre-bending horror series that combines the cosmic horror of H.P. Lovecraft with the racial injustice of Jim Crow America. Set in the 1950s, the show follows a young black man, Atticus Freeman, and his family and friends as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover their hidden legacy and confront the terrors that lurk in the shadows. With a talented cast, including Jonathan Majors, Jurnee Smollett, and Michael K. Williams, and visually stunning and imaginative production, “Lovecraft Country” offers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience.
Watchmen
Watchmen is a groundbreaking superhero drama series that adapts the iconic graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons while adding twists and layers. Set in an alternate reality where superheroes are outlawed and racism and violence are rampant, the show follows a diverse group of vigilantes, detectives, and politicians as they unravel a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the world with a bold and visionary approach.
Insecure
Insecure is a hilarious and poignant comedy series created by and starring Issa Rae, who portrays a young black woman navigating the ups and downs of relationships, career, and self-discovery in Los Angeles. With sharp and relatable humor, the show explores themes of race, gender, and class refreshingly and authentically, showcasing the talents of a diverse cast and crew.
The Undoing
“The Undoing” is a suspenseful and stylish thriller series starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant as a wealthy couple whose idyllic life is shattered when a violent crime happens. As the story unfolds, secrets and lies are exposed, and the characters’ true nature is revealed, leading to a gripping finale. With a gripping plot, a top-notch cast, and an atmospheric direction, “The Undoing” delivers a satisfying and memorable experience.
Raised by Wolves
“Raised by Wolves” is a science fiction series created by Ridley Scott that explores themes of artificial intelligence, religion, and the survival of the human race. Set on a distant planet, the show follows two androids tasked with raising human children and protecting them from a war between rival factions. With stunning visuals, a thought-provoking premise, and an unpredictable narrative, “Raised by Wolves” offers a fresh and immersive take on the sci-fi genre.
The White Lotus
“The White Lotus” is a satirical drama series set in a luxury resort in Hawaii, where guests and staff clash and collide over class, race, and privilege. With a keen eye for social commentary and sharp wit, the show skewers the excesses and hypocrisies of the wealthy and the service industry while exploring human behavior’s complexities and contradictions. Starring a talented ensemble cast, including Jennifer Coolidge, Murray Bartlett, and Alexandra Daddario, “The White Lotus’ ‘ is a standout series that blends comedy and drama delightfully and insightfully.
Hacks
“Hacks” is a brilliant and funny comedy series starring Jean Smart as a veteran comedian who collaborates with a young writer to revive her career and challenge her legacy. With witty and nuanced writing, the show explores aging, sexism, and creativity while showcasing the talents of Smart and her co-star Hannah Einbinder. “Hacks” is a fresh and original take on the comedy genre that defies expectations and delivers laughs and heart.
Sex and the City
“Sex and the City” is a beloved comedy-drama series that follows four women in New York City navigating love, sex, and friendship in the late 90s and early 2000s. Starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis, the show became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring fashion trends, lifestyle aspirations, and countless imitators. With its sharp writing, relatable characters, and iconic moments, “Sex and the City” remains a timeless classic that captures its era’s spirit and contradictions.
Conclusion
HBO Max has a rich and diverse selection of original series that cater to different tastes, moods, and interests, from crime dramas to comedies, science fiction to social satire, and many more. But you can only access them all outside the UK or any other country with a premium quality UK VPN as it will unblock your desired HBO Max originals from anywhere, including the UK. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or looking for something new, HBO Max has something for everyone.
