Despite being relatively new, HBO Max seems to be one platform that attracts numerous viewers. One key reason for its popularity is the novel and unique TV shows they seem to create. There have been some groundbreaking HBO series. Additionally, the different genres the platform has achieved is definitely a huge pro that brings in a lot of fans. From shows on important topics to that tackle taboos and comedy shows that gives the viewer a good laugh, HBO Max has some interesting series.
Of course, many tend to recognize HBO for infamous series like Game of Thrones. However, there are much more to view in this particular platform. In fact, some of these shows include not only a brilliant plot but also a spectacular as well as a diverse cast. Moreover, HBO Max includes some series that has won many awards for its brilliant contribution to the society as they tend to be some eye-opening stories. With such series, here are some must-watch HBO Max shows that are practically sure to be your next big binge.
8 Starstruck
In Starstruck, Rose Matafeo takes the lead role of Jessie, who ends up having a one-night stand with a stranger, played by Nikesh Patel, who turns out to be an A-list actor called Tom Kapoor. What makes this comedy brilliant is its fresh take on rom-coms. Kevin Fallon compares the first season of the show to a modern remake of Notting Hill. However, unlike Notting Hill, Starstruck includes a diverse cast and a protagonist with a witty tongue. This particular TV show is definitely a mood-lifter and a show that ensures you'll have a good laugh.
7 The Sex Lives of College Girls
Yet another show with a remarkable and diverse cast, The Sex Lives of College Girls is a creation by Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble. Interestingly, the production team has tapped into the idea of 'what it is like to be college girls' and has created an interesting story. The show focuses on four different 18-year-olds living the college life with a very sexually active lifestyle whilst facing the obstacles many young adults face. The Sex Lives of College Girls is a comical outburst that is also warming and delightful.
6 I May Destroy You
This particular show by Michaela Coel, who also takes up the role of the protagonist, explores the "question of sexual consent in contemporary life" and is inspired by the sexual assault incident she faced whilst writing Chewing Gum. I May Destroy You is a dark comedy that digs into the trauma caused by sexual assault. The story is one of bravery and the brutal honesty of the society's idea of consent.
Thus, whilst incorporating moments of humor, Coel has definitely allowed the viewer to think more about the issue of sexual assault, in turn, adding the much-needed sense of discomfort. I May Destroy You has won many awards, including the BAFTAs for Best Mini-Series, for its outstanding delivery of a story that is absolutely necessary in today's world.
5 Euphoria
Another award-winning show by HBO, Euphoria became an instant hit and gained much praise and popularity for tackling tough content and issues like addiction, mental health and intimate-partner violence. In additional to this, Euphoria became a fan-favorite due to its cinematography, music, superb casting as well as the colors and the world that Levinson has created. Not only does the show focus on individual characters with different backgrounds, but it also adds numerous plot-twists that has definitely shocked the fans. This has also made the audience crave for more of the show. Zendaya's performance of Rue Bennett is merely the cherry on top as the show unpacks a lot of topics through a fantastic lenses, ensuring that the viewer's attention is not diverted away from the story.
4 It's A Sin
A five episode series that covers an entire decade, It's a Sin takes place in London from 1981 to 1991. What is significant about this series is that it focuses on the HIV/AIDS crisis in the United Kingdom. With a group of queer friends taking the central focus of the series, It's A Sin unpacks the threat that HIV/AIDS imposed on the gay/queer community as well as the hardships they had to endure. Additionally, this particular show posited a positive impact on the society, for, as David Opie writes, "for straight people ... (drama) humanizes an epidemic that many didn't understand" whilst for queer people it is more than a form of escapism. Thus, It's A Sin is so much more than a show. It is a portrayal of an important debate.
3 Hacks
An unusual friendship that starts off on a rocky ground but gradually develops, Hacks is a show that is packed with humor. With Jean Smart taking over the role of Deborah Vance, a legendary stand-up comedian in Vegas, and Hannah Einbinder taking over the role of the comedy-writer Ava Daniels, this show is one that has received so much positive remarks that it has been able to secure a 100% from Rotten Tomatoes. It is the blend of comedy and intimacy along with reality-checks that makes Hacks an ideal show for everybody.
2 That Damn Michael Che
Saturday Night Live's favorite Weekend Update co-anchor, Michael Che, takes his brilliant show to HBO Max. That Damn Michael Che is not a mere sketch comedy, but it is a sketch comedy that drops truth bombs. This particular show is perfectly executed and serves as another important anchor to the society. Each episode focuses on one topic or theme rather than adding in random jokes. Thus, the viewer is made to think more about topical issues. However, Che doesn't stop there, rather he takes simple everyday occurrences like breakups and shows the world its normalcy with the added ingredient of humor. This show is undeniably a great way to pass your time.
1 Search Party
Search Party is an interesting show that has the perfect amount of mystery, humor and nonsense. This show focuses on a young group of friends with very different personalities but who are all blind to the realities of the world. The show starts off with the protagonist getting herself and her friends entangled with a missing-case. However, it eventually turns out to be a weird stunt by the missing person. Following this start, we see the series unwrapping different stories whilst focusing on the relationships of these characters. It definitely makes millennials question themselves and Gen-Z's want to rethink about the way they look at the world.