Outline:
This compilation of top films available on HBO Max features timeless classics as well as recent releases. The streaming service has consistently improved over the past few months, prompting us to increase our list from 15 to 20 titles. Now easily one of thebest streaming services, HBO Max offers a vast collection that is ready to be discovered.
You can embark on a Middle-earth marathon by viewing all of The Lord of the Rings movies – including the latest The War of the Rohirrim. Alternatively, you could watch all of theDC movies in orderBefore exploring the renowned film collection of Studio Ghibli. There are also numerous individual releases, including major recent films such as Sinners, One Battle After Another, Warfare, and many others.
If you’re looking for an excellent movie night, this is the list you need. Once you’ve finished reading this, be sure to check out our expanding collection of thebest HBO Max showsfor some amazing little screen treasures as well.
20. Friendship
Year: 2024
Director(s): Andrew DeYoung
Fans who enjoyed Netflix’s excellent series “I Think You Should Leave” should definitely watch this outstanding dark comedy. Directed by Andrew DeYoung, this is his first feature film, which features Tim Robinson in a superbly nervous role as Craig, a lonely middle-aged man trying to befriend his new neighbor, the charming meteorologist Austin (Paul Rudd), with disastrous results…
Similar to many of Robinson’s creations, Friendship moves between scenes that are incredibly funny and situations that are socially uncomfortable. The somber essence found in much of his work (as seen in his remarkable HBO Max series, The Chair Company) is softened by Rudd’s natural charm, along with a solid performance from Kate Mara as Craig’s wife Tami, who becomes more and more disengaged.
19. Bring Her Back
Year: 2025
Director: Danny and Michael Philippou
This terrifying horror movie has haunted our dreams ever since we watched it earlier this year. Andy (Billy Barratt) and his younger stepsister Piper (Sora Wong) are sent to live with Laura (Sally Hawkins), a mourning mother still struggling with the loss of her own daughter, Cathy. Andy plans to eventually take legal custody of Piper, which doesn’t sit well with Laura, who has some…unusualstrategies for coping with her sorrow methods to manage her mourning ways to handle her sadness approaches to dealing with her loss techniques for navigating her grief suggestions for addressing her emotional pain tips for supporting her through grief guidance on helping her process her sorrow ideas for assisting her in healing ways to comfort her during this difficult time
This is the second horror film from Danny and Michael Philippou, after their 2022 success Talk to Me. That one was a well-crafted scary movie, but Bring Her Back seems like a significant improvement in terms of its sophistication and ability to create a truly disturbing mood. It’s strongly advised, but with the note that this one will linger with you…
Look at our handbook on thebest Netflix horror movies.
18. Civil War
Year: 2024
Director: Alex Garland
Director Alex Garland made a powerful return to his best work with this intensely dark and disturbing depiction of the United States descending into chaos. Kirsten Dunst portrays war photographer Lee Smith, determined to capture the conflict. Accompanying her is Cailee Spaeny as Jessie Collin, a young aspiring journalist who is about to experience the true horror of war firsthand.
Filmed in a subtle, straightforward manner that only emphasizes the terror of conflict, Garland tracks these photographers as they move from place to place. A tense meeting with an uncredited Jesse Plemons is the movie’s most unsettling scene, yet another part where both sides fire randomly at each other without ever being certain if they are actually foes is nearly as bleakly unforgettable.
For additional suggestions, check out our list of thebest series on HBO Maxto watch right now.
17. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Year: 2024
Director: Tim Burton
It took 36 years (!) but the follow-up to Tim Burton’s 1988 gothic comedy finally came out last year, and – somewhat unexpectedly – it was actually quite good! Michael Keaton reprises his role as “bio-exorcist” Betelgeuse, who remains fixated on marrying Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder). Now an adult and separated from her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega, known for her role in Wednesday), Lydia has attempted to leave her past behind, but it doesn’t take long for Betelgeuse to return and once again create turmoil.
This is, in many respects, almost identical to the original. That’s not a negative, though. The humor is abundant and rapid, while certain elements from the first film that have not stood the test of time (like Betelgeuse’s lewd behavior) have been slightly softened. A storyline involving Astrid’s seemingly too-perfect new boyfriend introduces an element of mystery to what is Tim Burton’s finest film in years.
Our Beetlejuice Beetlejuice reviewcalled the movie “innovative entertainment”
16. The Host
Year: 2006
Director: Bong Joon Ho
Thirteen years prior to Bong Joon Ho’s 2019 film Parasite winning the Academy Award for Best Picture, he directed this slimy monster film centered around a horrifying mutation that arises from the Han River in South Korea. As the creature causes chaos, drastic actions are implemented to limit the damage.
Drawing inspiration from the actual dumping of hazardous substances in a Seoul waterway, director Bong’s movie highlights the human consequences of environmental negligence. A young woman, Park Hyun-seo (Go Ah-sung), is kidnapped by a monster, leading her family to attempt a rescue that ends up entangling them in a chaotic effort to eliminate the creature. The film explores themes of institutional oppression and social challenges, making it essential viewing for those who have seen Parasite and wish to gain insight into Bong’s artistic evolution.
15. Warfare
Year: 2025
Director: Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza
Alex Garland’s newest film seems to serve as a logical counterpart to last year’s Civil War, even though it has no connection in terms of story or characters. Co-directed by former US Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza, and drawn from his personal experiences during the Iraq War, the movie immerses the audience among a group of SEALs (featuring a collection of today’s most acclaimed actors, including Cosmo Jarvis, Joseph Quinn, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, and Will Poulter) at the moment a crisis takes a disastrous turn.
Presented in near real-time, with minimal explanation of the broader political background, this is an honest portrayal of the harsh reality of war, including its chaos and urgent, last-minute choices. It’s a compelling film that also serves as the opposite of every movie that ever made battle seem thrilling.
14. The Substance
Year: 2024
Director: Coralie Fargeat
This shocking, comedic horror film became a popular word-of-mouth success in 2024. Demi Moore portrays Elisabeth Sparkle, a former actress who was let go from her popular aerobics TV series due to age-related bias in Hollywood. As she descends into despair, Elisabeth turns to “the substance”– an enigmatic drug that claims to produce a “younger, more attractive, and more ideal” version of the user. Indeed, it does – in a very straightforward way. Before long, there are two Elisabeth Sparkles existing simultaneously in the world: the original and a younger version portrayed by Margaret Qualley. What might go wrong? (Everything, naturally.)
The Substance is remarkably bold, but it’s the film’s sharp satire that remains most memorable. Moore and Qualley deliver outstanding performances in a movie that culminates in a polarizing – yet undeniably memorable – conclusion.
13. Uncut Gems
Year: 2019
Director(s): Josh and Benny Safdie
Adam Sandler delivers a serious performance in this outstanding and tense thriller directed by Josh and Benny Safdie. Sandler portrays Howard Ratner, a jeweler and compulsive gambler who acquires a 600-carat black opal with funds borrowed from his dubious brother-in-law. When Ratner fails to repay the loan, his brother-in-law sends some henchmen after him, triggering a series of events that could either save or ruin Howard.
Uncut Gems is an extended, and often tense experience as Sandler’s character – somewhat of a lowlife, yet generally likable – becomes increasingly entangled in his own problems. It remains consistently engaging, featuring top-notch performances from Sandler and a standout role from Julia Fox as Howard’s kind-hearted lover. An unsettling electronic soundtrack by Daniel Lopatin enhances the feeling of constant discomfort.
12. Superman
Year: 2025
Director: James Gunn
One of the most anticipated films of the year is now available to watch on HBO Max! Superman showcases director James Gunn at his best, reviving the Man of Steel with a bright and hopeful approach that contrasts with the darker tone of earlier DC movies. We encounter the new Superman—skillfully portrayed by David Corenswet—early in his journey as a hero, although his origin story is wisely left untold. (This narrative has been explored many times before, as seen with Batman and Spider-Man.) The villainous Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, has a scheme to finally defeat his long-time rival, and it poses a threat to the entire world.
Gunn’s Superman is packed with ample action, humor, and endearing characters, making its shortcomings—like an overly complex storyline—easy to overlook. This marks a strong beginning for the new and reimagined DCU.
Find out about every DC Universe film and television series with our handy guide.
11. Weapons
Year: 2025
Director: Zach Cregger
The top horror film from last year was also one of the most unexpected releases in 2025. Similar to Zach Cregger’s first feature, Barbarian, a significant part of the enjoyment of Weapons stemmed from its constantly changing storyline: it begins with the enigma of a classroom full of children disappearing overnight, then delves into a complex network of subplots involving a fallen teacher, an unfaithful officer, and a secretive older woman. Figuring out how these characters are all linked is essential to unraveling a delightfully dark supernatural mystery.
Weapons is amusing and terrifying, with its depiction of children running at night, arms extended like airplanes, creating an unforgettable eerie atmosphere. Amy Madigan’sAunt GladysQuickly became a classic horror figure, and the film’s complex themes that avoid clear conclusions have inspired numerous fan interpretations. A remarkable movie that you’ll enjoy watching multiple times.
Our Weapons reviewcalled the movie a “distorted fable.”
10. Barbie
Year: 2023
Director: Greta Gerwig
Although widely popular among different age groups, Barbie dolls don’t naturally come with a story that seems ideal for a movie. However, Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie (who also produced the film and portrayed the lead role) achieved something remarkable, as “Barbie” is clever, humorous, and highly pertinent, addressing significant topics with sincere skill.
When Barbie begins to contemplate death and other matters that donotResiding in the vibrant world of Barbieland, she steps into the real world (accompanied by a standout performance from Ryan Reynolds as Ken). There, she uncovers the genuine challenges of being a woman, while Ken experiences the ups and downs of the patriarchal system. Barbie will evoke laughter and tears in ways you may not have anticipated.
If you’re interested in a tour of this cinematic dream home, check out ourBarbie review.
9. I Witnessed the TV Radiance
Year: 2024
Director: Jane Schoenbrun
One of the most highly praised movies from last year was this unsettling semi-horror film directed by Jane Schoenbrun. I Saw The TV Glow serves as a heartfelt tribute to the classic ’90s and early 2000s teen series such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, while also delving deeply into themes of identity. The story follows Owen (Ian Foreman), a lonely teenager who forms a connection with the older, yet similarly isolated, Maddy (Jack Haven) through The Pink Opaque – a show reminiscent of Buffy that feels more authentic than reality itself. Fast forward a few years, and Owen, now portrayed by Justice Smith, reconnects with Maddy, who brings with her a life-altering revelation.
I Saw The TV Glow is a challenging movie to characterize without revealing plot points, but if you enjoy films and series that mix the lines between imagination and reality, or philosophical enigmas similar to Donnie Darko and Twin Peaks, then this one is definitely worth watching.
8. Dune: Part One and Part Two
Year: 2023
Director(s): Denis Villeneuve
For a long time, it was thought to be impossible to adapt, but Denis Villeneuve’s two-part version of Frank Herbert’s iconic novel demonstrated that there is still a demand for grand, expansive science fiction films beyond the Star Wars franchise. Villeneuve moves at a deliberate pace in Part One, creating a movie that is massive in scope yet focused on its characters. Timothée Chalamet plays Paul, the successor of House Atreides and – possibly – a messiah foretold who will free the Fremen people from the harsh rule of House Harkonnen. But what will be the price?
Part 2 escalates the eccentricity and intensity as a full-scale conflict erupts between Paul’s army and the Harkonnen forces, culminating in a clever and unconventional conclusion that also elevates Chani (Zendaya) to a more prominent position than in the original book. A third film, titled Dune: Part 3, is in the works and will adapt Herbert’s sequel, Dune Messiah.
7. Sinners
Year: 2025
Director: Ryan Coogler
This gripping horror film is directed by Black Panther’s Ryan Coogler. Set in 1932, Sinners centers on twin brothers Smoke and Stack Moore (portrayed by Michael B. Jordan) as they open a juke joint in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Both individuals are World War I veterans who have spent the past few years working with the mob. They now have an opportunity to create their own future—especially after teaming up with their young cousin Sammie (Miles Caton), a talented blues musician. However, it doesn’t take long before darkness arrives.
Most people are likely aware of the horror sub-genre that Sinners falls into, but we won’t reveal it here. Keep in mind that this is a beautifully filmed movie featuring an outstanding soundtrack and compelling characters, making it one of the standout films of the year.
6. A Series of Conflicts
Year: 2025
Director(s): Paul Thomas Anderson
Undoubtedly one of the standout movies from last year, One Battle After Another showcases Paul Thomas Anderson at his most energetic. Based loosely on Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 book Vineland, the film centers on Bob (Leonardo DiCaprio), a wary ex-revolutionary who is drawn back into conflict when the violent Col. Steven J. Lockjaw (a brilliantly chaotic portrayal by Sean Penn) reenters his life, seeking Bob’s daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti).
One Battle’s depiction of a politically unstable America seems strikingly current, yet it is also a humorous and subtly strange film filled with unusual side stories — such as Lockjaw attempting to become part of a secret group known as the Christmas Adventurers Club — and memorable characters, including Benicio del Toro’s quiet, philosophical mentor Sergio. A tense car chase in the final act concludes the film with an intense, gripping climax.
Our Review of One Battle After Anothercalled the movie an “instant classic.”
5. 2001: A Space Odyssey
Year: 1968
Director: Stanley Kubrick
In the realm of filmmaking, few can match Stanley Kubrick, and few films have ever reached the design and scale that the director’s 1960s science fiction masterpiece, 2001: A Space Odyssey, accomplished. The narrative not only spans the history of humanity but also presents the emergence of a new species via an enchanting storyline that highlights what a space epic genuinely represents—grand ideas examined within a vast universe.
It draws from Arthur C. Clarke’s 1951 short story “The Sentinel” and other writings, depicting a journey undertaken by astronauts alongside their advanced artificial intelligence, HAL, as they go to examine an alien monolith. During its two-and-a-half-hour length, it presents one of the earliest films to delve into themes of human development, technology, and the risks associated with AI. 2001: A Space Odyssey was instrumental in advancing special effects within science fiction and stands as one of the most impactful films ever created.
Read our five-star 2001: A Space Odyssey critiquefor additional details about this enduring work of art.
4. The Dark Knight
Year: 2008
Director: Christopher Nolan
What’s the greatest Batman film ever created? The top superhero movie of all time? One of the finest action movies from this era? The Dark Knight embodies all these if you ask us. Christopher Nolan’s sequel to Batman Begins is truly legendary, featuring exceptional acting and stunning action sequences. Nolan provided a dark, courageous, and sophisticated approach to the superhero genre, crafting a crime thriller with deep themes and engaging characters.
Every aspect is flawless, but the greatest commendation must be given to Heath Ledger’s unforgettable portrayal of the Joker. Combined with Christian Bale’s intense Batman, Gary Oldman’s shrewd Jim Gordon, Morgan Freeman’s charming Lucius Fox, and Maggie Gyllenhaal’s determined Rachel Dawes, this creates an exceptional cast for a revolutionary, trailblazing superhero film.
For further information, read ourreview of The Dark Knight.
3. The Lord of the Rings Series
Years: 2001-2003
Director: Peter Jackson
Certainly, including the entire trilogy technically increases this list of 10 films to a dozen, but how can you choose just one movie when The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King together represent some of the finest epic cinema ever made? I mean, are you truly experiencing Tolkien if you don’t watch all of them?Movies in order of The Lord of the Rings during a single sitting?
A genuine film version of J.R.R. Tolkien’s cherished fantasy series was once considered impossible to adapt, yet Peter Jackson managed to achieve it. He accomplished this through advanced visual effects, a careful interpretation of Tolkien’s literature, an outstanding musical score by Howard Shore, and a remarkable ensemble cast that featured Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Cate Blanchett, and numerous others. Showing the Fellowship’s journey to overcome the greatest evil of Sauron as they travel through Middle-earth is a remarkable and emotionally powerful film success.
2. Phantom Thread
Year: 2017
Director(s): Paul Thomas Anderson
It’s an impossible challenge to rank PTA’s films: he has created so many exceptional masterpieces! However, in our opinion, this sophisticated, dark, and subtly humorous romance stands out as his greatest work. Daniel Day-Lewis portrays Reynolds Woodcock, a charming and attractive fashion designer who serves London’s elite in the early 1950s. A man with strict routines in both his profession and personal life, he is also tormented by memories of his mother. A chance encounter with a young waitress named Alma (Vicky Krieps) alters everything…
It requires a truly exceptional actor to overshadow Daniel Day-Lewis, yet Krieps delivers an unforgettable core to Phantom Thread, infusing Alma with both tender humanity and strength. What initially appears as a complicated relationship gains a completely new perspective by the film’s unexpected, softly optimistic concluding scene. A remarkable movie that rewards repeated watchings.
1. Spirited Away
Year: 2001
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Honestly, this list might possiblyjustTen of Miyazaki’s films would still make for a list of the 10 best movies available on Max. However, despite Porco Rosso being overlooked and definitely worth viewing, we’d be fooling ourselves if we didn’t include Spirited Away, which is the pinnacle of his numerous outstanding creations.
The movie centers around a young girl named Chihiro who becomes stuck in a magical realm filled with spirits. She is compelled to work at a luxurious bathhouse managed by the witch Yubaba, and Chihiro needs to discover her inner courage if she wants to escape (and save her parents, who have been turned into pigs). Enchanting, heartfelt, and stunningly beautiful, Spirited Away is often recognized as one of the top films.best anime moviesof all time, and for valid justification.
For more information on the top HBO Max film currently available to watch, read ourSpirited Away review.
For more information about HBO Max, view our convenient guides on all the deals and pricesavailable on the streaming service right now andHow to access HBO Max in the UK. Or, if you’re looking for more releases, we also have a list of all theupcoming moviesheading toward us this year.
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