Buzz
This month, Max offers an exciting lineup of TV shows and movies, with some standout picks worth your attention. Leading the pack is HBO's daring and sharp-tongued comedy, The Righteous Gemstones, which returns for its fourth and final season. Also on the list is The Parenting, an HBO original horror film with a fascinating concept and a star-studded cast. Additionally, three A24-produced films—Queer, Heretic, and Sing Sing—promise unique and compelling storytelling.
The Righteous Gemstones, season 4
In its fourth and final season, HBO's original comedy The Righteous Gemstones follows the dysfunctional televangelist family as they hilariously navigate America's so-called "war on Christianity" while continuing their schemes. The stellar cast, including Danny McBride, Adam DeVine, Edi Patterson, and John Goodman, returns, joined by new additions to spice things up. Megan Mullally from Will & Grace portrays Lori, a longtime family friend, while Sean William Scott of American Pie fame plays her son.
Available for streaming starting March 9.
The Parenting
Max's original horror-comedy The Parenting boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Brian Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Dean Norris, Edie Falco, Parker Posey, Nik Dodani, and Brandon Flynn. Dodani and Flynn portray a young couple organizing a weekend retreat for their parents to meet and share their engagement news. While tensions rise between the in-laws, the family faces a far greater threat: a sinister poltergeist haunting the remote countryside home, which begins possessing its inhabitants.
Streaming begins March 13.
Queer (2024)
Daniel Craig delivers a remarkable performance in this A24 film adaptation of William S. Burroughs' groundbreaking novel. Set in 1950s Mexico City, Queer follows expatriate William Lee (Craig), whose days of drinking and pursuing younger men take a dramatic turn when he falls for an American GI, portrayed by Drew Starkey. Directed by Luca Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Name), the film showcases his exceptional storytelling prowess.
Available for streaming starting March 28.
Heretic (2024)
In this critically praised horror film, two optimistic Mormon missionaries encounter a dangerous man after knocking on his door. Hugh Grant charms Sisters Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Paxton (Chloe East) with his hospitality, offering pie and spiritual discussion. However, the situation quickly escalates into terror. Grant's brilliant performance and the film's sharp script elevate the genre, while its intense suspense and brutality firmly root it in horror.
Streaming begins March 7.
Sing Sing (2024)
Sing Sing received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of Sing Sing prison's Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program, where inmates create theatrical productions. Colman Domingo, who won an Oscar for his role as John Whitfield—a man wrongfully imprisoned—leads the cast. Many of the other actors are former convicts portraying fictionalized versions of themselves, lending the film an authentic, documentary-like quality. This compelling and unique movie deserves a spot on your must-watch list.
Available for streaming starting March 21.
Paul American
For fans of YouTube sensations Jake and Logan Paul, this eight-part reality series offers an inside look at their extravagant lives and careers as American entertainment and sports icons. Paul American also introduces viewers to the broader Paul family, potentially paving the way for new stars to rise. A true celebration of American ambition!
Available for streaming starting March 27.
Celtics City
This sports reality series offers an exclusive look into the Boston Celtics, the most successful team in NBA history. From its establishment in 1946 to the Larry Bird era of the 1980s and the victorious 2024 season, Celtics City delves into the intricate factors that have forged the team into a lasting sports dynasty.
Streaming begins March 3.
When No One Sees Us
Adapted from Sergio Sarria's novel, When No One Sees Us marks Max's debut original Spanish-language series. Maribel Verdú (The Flash) stars as Lucía Gutierrez, a local Spanish police officer. When a string of gruesome murders occurs during Holy Week in Morón de la Frontera (Seville), Gutierrez teams up with Lieutenant Magaly Castillo from a nearby U.S. military base. Beyond being a thriller and police procedural, When No One Sees Us delves into the cultural clash between traditional Spain and one of the world's largest American military installations.
Available for streaming starting March 7.
Last month's picks
The White Lotus, Season 3
Mike White's Emmy-winning series The White Lotus stands out as a masterpiece. Combining sharp critiques of wealth and privilege, richly developed (yet often detestable) characters, and dark humor, it offers a unique television experience. Season 3 follows a new set of affluent Americans checking into a White Lotus resort in Thailand. While I can't predict specifics, it's safe to assume their stay will be anything but relaxing. Natasha Rothwell reprises her role as the spa owner from Season 1, one of the few likable characters in the series. The season also features standout performances by Walton Goggins (The Ghoul in Prime's Fallout series), Carrie Coon, Scott Glenn, Leslie Bibb, Michelle Monaghan, and Parker Posey.
Available for streaming starting February 16.
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, season 12
A new season of Last Week Tonight kicks off this month, and sardonic host John Oliver is sure to tackle the absurdities of 2025 America. Expect Oliver to pose tough questions like, "Have two U.S. presidents ever kissed?" and "Did Tucker Carlson’s mom really leave him just $1 in her will?" (Yes, she did.) If you enjoy sharp political satire, this is a must-watch—especially in a time when such humor feels increasingly precarious.
Streaming begins February 16.
Common Side Effects
This Adult Swim-produced animated series is captivating. Common Side Effects, executive produced by Mike Judge (creator of King of the Hill and Beavis and Butthead), is not a comedy but a dark, visually striking drama. It follows two high school friends who stumble upon a miracle drug that cures all ailments, only to uncover a massive conspiracy involving the pharmaceutical industry and the government to suppress its existence.
Available for streaming starting February 3.
Have I Got News for You, Season 2
If John Oliver's satirical news coverage isn't enough, Have I Got News for You offers a fresh take. Hosted by Roy Wood Jr. alongside Amber Ruffin and Michael Ian Black, the show transforms the often dreary task of keeping up with current events into an entertaining experience. Each episode features celebrity guests competing in games and quizzes centered around the latest news, reminiscent of NPR's Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me.
Streaming begins February 15.
We Live in Time (2024)
For fans of heart-wrenching romantic dramas like The Notebook, this film is a must-watch. Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield deliver powerful performances in We Live in Time, which employs a non-linear narrative to explore Pugh's character's cancer diagnosis and her choice to forgo treatment to embrace her final days fully. Produced by A24, known for its consistent excellence, this movie is a poignant and daring exploration of love and loss.
Available for streaming starting February 7
The Takedown: American Aryans
This HBO original documentary series chronicles law enforcement's efforts to dismantle the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas, a neo-Nazi gang responsible for numerous murders and crimes, including the tragic killing of Breanna Taylor. Through interviews with law enforcement, Taylor's family, and former gang members, The Takedown: American Aryans provides an in-depth look at the investigation, arrests, and trials that brought down this infamous criminal organization.
Available for streaming starting February 6.
We are the Best! (2014)
We are the Best! features no well-known actors and was produced on a modest budget in Sweden. Despite receiving positive reviews, it had limited box office success, barely grossing a million dollars. The film follows three 12-year-old girls in 1982 Stockholm who form a hilariously bad punk rock band. While the premise might sound niche, the movie beautifully captures the essence of youth, hope, and rebellion in a way few films ever achieve. Trust me, it’s worth watching.
Streaming begins February 1.
How I Left the Opus Dei
Raised in a casual Catholic household where church attendance was more about keeping mom happy than fervent belief, I find the extreme practices of Opus Dei Catholics fascinating. They take their faith seriously—sleeping on boards, practicing "mortification of the flesh," and more. How I Left Opus Dei is a gripping docu-series that follows 13 women who escaped the group after enduring abuse. It’s definitely on my watchlist.
Available for streaming starting February 7
Puppy Bowl XXI
If you need a break from the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles showdown, tune into HBO's Puppy Bowl on Super Bowl Sunday. Watch adorable puppies from Teams Ruff and Fluff play with toys and tumble around, blissfully unaware they’re melting hearts on TV. And don’t skip the cat-filled halftime show—it’s pure delight.
Streaming begins February 9.
