50 Must-Watch Movies on HBO Max in 2023

50 Must-Watch Movies on HBO Max in 2023

Gone are the days of renting out movies or buying physical Blu-ray CDs. Streaming has almost completely taken over, and understandably so as it offers content on demand.

With streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max or Max as it is now known, you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

Max is one of the best streaming services available, offering a wide variety of content, including original series, movies, documentaries, and kids’ programming. The service also offers a wide variety of movies, including new releases, classic films, and HBO Max originals like Dune and The Batman.

HBO Max is easy to subscribe to. You can sign up for a monthly or annual plan, and you can cancel at any time. Once you’re subscribed, you can stream content on HBO Max via your web browser, smart TV, gaming console, mobile device, or other supported device.

This article will highlight 50 Must-Watch Movies that are available on Max and ready for you to stream. Enjoy!

1. Joker (2019)

The Joker is one of the most iconic and captivating villains in all of popular culture. He is a complex and enigmatic figure, with unclear motives and an irredeemable moral compass.

However, it is this very complexity that makes him so fascinating to watch. The Joker has been featured in many different movies and TV shows over the years, but he has never been the central character in his own film until 2019.

That year, Todd Phillips released a dark and gritty Joker origin story starring Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it won Phoenix the Academy Award for Best Actor.

With a run-time of 121 minutes, Joker is a must-watch for any fan of superhero movies, crime thrillers, or psychological dramas.

2. Dune (2021)

Dune (2021) is a visually stunning and emotionally charged epic hero’s journey. It is based on the classic Sci-Fi bestseller books of the same name by famous author Frank Herbert.

The film tells the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), a brilliant young man born with a destiny greater than himself.

Paul’s family is entrusted with the stewardship of the dangerous desert planet Arrakis, the only source of the most valuable substance in the universe, known as the spice. He must face the daunting task of protecting his family and his people from their enemies.

Besides being a visually stunning movie with a captivating story, Dune has a rather stacked cast of talented actors. The list includes; Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Jason Momoa, and Stellan Skarsgård among many others.

3. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

2001: A Space Odyssey is a 1968 epic science fiction film directed, written, and co-produced by Stanley Kubrick. Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made, its themes and imagery continue to be explored and discussed in popular culture.

The film tells the story of humanity’s journey to the stars, from its prehistoric origins to its possible future. It is divided into four parts: the Dawn of Man, TMA-1, Jupiter Mission, and Jupiter and Beyond the Infinite.

2001: A Space Odyssey is a visually stunning film, with groundbreaking special effects that still hold up well today especially considering it was released in 1968!

4. Parasite (2019)

Released in 2019, Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite has won just about any award it could have won. Parasite is a South Korean dark comedy thriller film that explores themes of class inequality, social injustice, and the dark side of human nature.

The film follows the Kim family, a poor family who schemes to become employed by the wealthy Park family by infiltrating their household and posing as unrelated, highly qualified individuals. The Kims succeed in their plan, but their newfound prosperity is threatened when they discover a dark secret hidden in the Parks’ basement.

With a run-time of 132 minutes, Parasite is a definite must-watch! It has a pitch-perfect script, stunning cinematography, and superb performances from the entire cast.

5. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Mrmw, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Recognized as one of the greatest movies of all time, Pulp Fiction is a star-studded film by the famous and critically acclaimed big-screen regular Quentin Tarantino.

Written and directed by Tarantino, Pulp Fiction weaves together several darkly hilarious crime stories unfolding all across Los Angeles. Pulp Fiction is a landmark film in American cinema. It is known for its nonlinear storytelling, stylized dialogue, and iconic characters.

It is credited as the body of work that cemented Tarantino as a true cinematic genius. The long list of famous actors in the film includes John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, Ving Rhames, and Bruce Willis.

6. Batman (1989)

Honza Nedoma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tim Burton’s Batman was one of the first superhero films to be taken seriously by critics and audiences alike. It was a dark and gritty film that explored the darker side of Batman’s character.

Burton gambled by casting Michael Keaton as the caped crusader and it paid off. To date, Keton’s performance is considered one of the best Batman’s to hit the big screen.

A notable performance from the film is Jack Nicholson as the Joker. Thanks to these two and their supporting characters, 1989’s Batman is a classic superhero film that helped to redefine the genre.

7. The Matrix (1999)

With its stunning visuals, gravity-defying action sequences, and mind-bending plot, 1999’s The Matrix redefined action films for years to come. It is an iconic film whose influence can not be understated.

The Matrix tells the story of Neo (Keanu Reeves), a computer hacker who is drawn into a dangerous world where he learns that the reality he lives in is actually a simulated reality created by machines to control humanity.

Neo must decide whether to take the red pill and wake up to the real world or to take the blue pill and remain in the Matrix.

The movie has a talented cast of names that have become giants in the industry such as Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, and Carrie-Anne Moss among others.

All other Matrix films from the franchise are also available on Max. These are The Matrix Reloaded (2003), The Matrix Revolutions (2003), and The Matrix Resurrections (2001).

8. Reality (2023)

Starring Sydney Sweeney, Tina Satter’s Reality is a powerful and timely film that tells the story of Reality Winner. Winner was a young intelligence analyst who leaked a classified document about Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections.

The film is based on the actual FBI transcript of Winner’s interrogation, and it stars Sydney Sweeney in a breakout performance as Winner. Sweeney is able to capture Winner’s intelligence, courage, and vulnerability in a way that is both believable and moving.

9. The Menu (2022)

This is one you’ve probably seen or heard of on social media. The Menu is a 2022 American dark comedy horror film directed by Mark Mylod (who directed HBO’s Succession) and written by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy. It stars Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, and Hong Chau among others.

The film follows a young couple (Taylor-Joy and Hoult) who travel to a remote island to eat at an exclusive restaurant helmed by a renowned chef (Fiennes). However, as the evening progresses, the guests realize that they are in for a night they will never forget.

The Menu satirizes foodie culture in a comedic and dark way that will stay with you for a while.

10. The Flash (2023)

After a long hiatus, the Scarlet Speedster returns to the big screen in his first solo film. Ezra Miller, stars as the famous DC Comics character alongside other famous actors such as Michael Keaton (Batman), Ben Affleck (Batman), Sasha Calle (Supergirl), and Kiersey Clemons (Iris West).

The Flash follows Barry Allen as he uses his time travel powers to try to save his mother from being murdered. However, when his attempt to change the past has unintended consequences, Barry must find a way to restore the timeline and defeat a new threat to the world.

The film is a visual feast with Muschietti creating a unique and immersive superhero experience.

11. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

As far as villains go, Anthony Hopkins’ Dr. Hannibal Lecter is a special kind of scary. 1991’s The Silence of the Lambs is an Oscar-nominated adaptation of the Thomas Harris book by the same name.

This psychological thriller stars Jodie Foster as FBI trainee Clarice Starling and Anthony Hopkins as cannibalistic serial killer Hannibal Lecter. The film follows Starling as she seeks the help of the incarcerated Hannibal to catch another active serial killer.

The relationship between Starling and Lecter is one of the most iconic in film history, and their cat-and-mouse game is both thrilling and unsettling. To date, it is still considered to be one of the greatest films ever made.

The monologues in this movie more so from Hopkins’ Hannibal, *Chef’s Kiss* are everything!

12. Good Will Hunting (1997)

Good Will Hunting is an Oscar-winning film that surprisingly was written by two of cinema’s A-list celebrities, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, well before they were A-listers. The film tells the story of Will Hunting a self-taught genius who works as a janitor at MIT.

When Will solves a complex math problem that has baffled the university’s professors, he is brought to the attention of Dr. Sean Maguire, a therapist who is determined to help Will reach his full potential.

Matt Damon stars as Will Hunting and Dr. Sean Maguire is played by the late Robin Williams. Affleck pops up in the film as Will’s childhood friend too.

13. Gone Girl (2014)

Gone Girl is a 2014 American psychological thriller film directed by David Fincher and written by Gillian Flynn, based on her 2012 novel of the same name. The film stars Ben Affleck as Nick Dunne, a man whose wife, Amy (Rosamund Pike), disappears on their fifth wedding anniversary.

As Nick becomes the prime suspect in Amy’s disappearance, he must race against time to clear his name and find his wife. Affleck plays the role of the admittedly terrible husband wonderfully!

For anyone who has read the books prior, this is a wonderfully done adaptation that lives up to expectations as high as they are. Be on the lookout for the “cool girl” monologue when you watch it.

14. The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

Imagine your best friend stopped talking to you abruptly with no explanation whatsoever as to why. What would you do? Well, that’s The Banshees of Inisherin in overly simplified terms!

The Banshees of Inisherin is a comedy-drama written and directed by Martin McDonagh. It is a darkly comic masterpiece that stands as one of the best films of 2022, the perfect feel-bad treat if you will.

The movie has a relatively simple premise that acts as the movie’s saving grace in more ways than one. It is set on a remote Irish island in 1923 and follows two lifelong friends, who find themselves at crossroads, as their once-close bond is shattered by a sudden and unexplained rift.

Despite the simple premise, the movie is a true masterpiece. McDonagh provides a masterclass in suspense and character development, as he gradually unravels the layers of complexity behind the two men’s relationship.

The two leads, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, also put in award-worthy performances as the two friends, each struggling to come to terms with the loss of the other in their own unique way.

15. Last Night in Soho (2021)

Are you intrigued or at least curious about what the ‘60s were like? Last Night in Soho (2021) takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the vibrant streets of 1960s London and the dark secrets that lie beneath its alluring façade.

Eloise, an aspiring fashion designer, finds herself mysteriously transported to the past, inhabiting the body of Sandie, a dazzling aspiring singer. As Eloise becomes increasingly enmeshed in Sandie’s life, she uncovers a sinister reality that threatens to shatter her own world.

A haunting blend of psychological suspense and dazzling visuals, Last Night in Soho captivates with its stylish aesthetic and captivating performances from Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy, who seamlessly embody the complexities of their characters.

The film masterfully weaves together elements of nostalgia and horror, immersing viewers in the alluring allure of 1960s Soho while simultaneously exposing the dark underbelly of the era.

16. The Batman (2022)

When it was announced Robert Pattinson, was the new Batman, not many gave him a chance and the criticism was loud. However, with the first trailer, Robert Pattinson won over fans of the dark knight and many couldn’t wait to meet his Batman.

This iteration of the infamous DC Comics hero takes a fresh and unique approach to our hero’s story. Directed by Matt Reeves, The Batman is set in Gotham City and is as corrupt and crime-ridden as ever.

The film’s cinematography is simply breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the city skyline and claustrophobic close-ups of Batman’s gritty investigations and action scenes.

The film is supported by its wonderfully talented cast which includes Robert Pattinson, Zoe Kravitz, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, and Andy Serkis.

17. West Side Story (2021)

In recent years, Hollywood has made remakes of some of the greatest hits but sadly, most have been labeled horrendous and insults to their predecessors. However, Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story is a proud remake of the 1961 classic by the same name.

The film tells the story of two rival gangs in New York City, the Jets and the Sharks, and the forbidden love between Tony (Ansel Elgort) and Maria (Rachel Zegler), a member of each gang, respectively.

Spielberg’s remake is a visually stunning film, with breathtaking cinematography and dance sequences. The performances are also excellent, with Zegler giving a particularly standout performance as Maria.

18. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Tony Peters, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This is where it all began, the first film in Peter Jackson’s epic trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novels. The film follows Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood), a hobbit who inherits the One Ring, an evil artifact created by the Dark Lord Sauron.

Frodo must embark on a perilous journey to Mordor, the land of Sauron’s dominion, to destroy the One Ring and prevent Sauron from regaining his power.

The Fellowship of the Ring is a visually stunning film with epic scope and scale. Jackson’s direction is masterful, and he creates a truly immersive world that is both believable and magical.

The film’s special effects are also groundbreaking, and they still hold up well today.

19. I, Tonya (2017)

From the skating to the kneecapping and busted laces, think you know, Tonya Harding’s story? Well, not like this!

Craig Gillespie’s 2017 biopic, I, Tonya is a darkly comic and suspenseful film about Tonya Harding. The figure skater who was involved in the infamous attack on her fellow Olympic competitor, Nancy Kerrigan.

The film is told from Harding’s perspective, which gives viewers a unique and often sympathetic look at a woman whom the media have largely vilified. Margot Robbie delivers an Oscar-nominated performance as Harding, capturing her vulnerability, strength, and resilience.

I, Tonya is more than just a sports movie. It is also a complex and nuanced exploration of themes such as class, gender, and the American Dream.

The film is also notable for its innovative use of storytelling techniques, such as mockumentary interviews and unreliable narrators.

20. V For Vendetta (2006)

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V for Vendetta is a dystopian political thriller film set in a totalitarian future where a masked vigilante named V fights against the oppressive government. The film is a powerful and timely exploration of the importance of freedom and the dangers of tyranny.

The film is also notable for its iconic imagery, such as V’s Guy Fawkes mask and his signature catchphrase, “Remember, remember, the fifth of November.”

V for Vendetta has become a symbol of resistance and hope for people all over the world with his iconic mask often used to represent standing up against oppression.

21. Nightcrawler (2014)

Peter Kudlacz, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Jake Gyllenhaal is known for picking up unusual roles and Nightcrawler’s Lou Bloom is one of the earlier ones in what has become a long list at this point.

The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Lou Bloom, an ambitious and ruthless young man who becomes a nightcrawler, a freelance videographer who aims to be first on the scene of violence with a video camera to record and sell the footage to local news stations.

Bloom can only be described as a sociopath and Gyllenhaal is phenomenal in this role, bringing a creepy energy to even the most basic conversation. Additionally, it is said Lou Bloom never blinks in the entire film. Not once!

We’ll leave you to fact-check that when you watch it!

22. Blade (1998)

Before there were the likes of Spiderman and the X-Men or even the MCU, there was Blade and his exploits were bloody and Rated R. Much like Deadpool but with way less comic relief.

Blade stars Wesley Snipes as the titular character, a half-vampire, half-human who hunts down vampires. The film follows Blade as he teams up with a hematologist (N’Bushe Wright) and a vampire hunter (Kris Kristofferson) to stop a bloodthirsty vampire overlord (Stephen Dorff).

What really sets Blade apart is its complex and compelling protagonist. Blade is a tortured hero, haunted by his past and driven by a desire to protect humanity from the vampires who seek to destroy it.

The film also features some of the best action sequences of the 1990s, with Blade’s martial arts skills and vampire-hunting gadgets on full display.

23. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Edge of Tomorrow is a thrilling and thought-provoking science fiction action film starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.

In Edge of Tomorrow, Cruise plays Major William Cage, a public relations officer with no combat experience who is forced to join a suicide mission against an alien race. When Cage is killed in battle, he finds himself reliving the same day over and over again.

At first, Cage is trapped in a nightmarish loop, but he eventually uses his newfound ability to learn from his mistakes and become a skilled fighter.

Edge of Tomorrow is a visually stunning film with incredible action sequences. However, what really sets Edge of Tomorrow apart is its intelligent and thought-provoking story.

The film explores themes such as the nature of heroism.

24. Unbreakable (2000)

Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Unbreakable is a superhero film directed by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson. The film follows David Dunn (Willis), a security guard who survives a horrific train crash without a scratch.

David soon realizes that he has superhuman abilities, but he is unsure of what to do with them. Enter Elijah Price (Jackson), a mysterious man who believes that David is the real-life equivalent of a superhero.

Unbreakable is the first film in the Unbreakable trilogy, also known as the Eastrail 177 Trilogy. The other two (so far) are Split (2016) and Glass (2019).

25. Godzilla (1954)

Toho Company Ltd. (東宝株式会社), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Released in 1954, this movie, directed by Ishiro Honda, kickstarted one of the longest-running film franchises of all time, the Godzilla franchise.

The film tells the story of Godzilla, a prehistoric sea monster awakened by nuclear testing. Godzilla emerges from the ocean and attacks Tokyo, causing widespread destruction and death. The Japanese government and military are powerless to stop the creature, and it is only thanks to the ingenuity of a scientist named Dr. Serizawa that Godzilla is finally defeated.

The costumes in the film can be described as cheesy but considering when it was released it can be understood. Godzilla stands out as a truly unique and visionary film. It is also a cautionary tale about the dangers of nuclear weapons and a warning about the hubris of mankind.

26. Free Guy (2021)

Free Guy is a fun, heartwarming, and thought-provoking action comedy film. It stars Ryan Reynolds as Guy, a bank teller who discovers that he is a non-player character in a massively multiplayer online game.

At first, Guy is content with his life as an NPC, but when he meets Molotov Girl (Jodie Comer), a player who challenges him to see the world in a new way, he begins to question his reality.

With Ryan Reynolds in his best loveable and charming form, this special effects-travaganza is a must-watch.

27. Nobody (2021)

You’re probably familiar with Bob Odenkirk as Saul Goodman from the popular TV Shows Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad. If anyone told you the guy who played the scheming and conniving lawyer plays an action hero, you’d not believe them. However, he does just that!

Nobody (2021) is a dark action-comedy thriller starring Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell, a seemingly mild-mannered family man who is pushed over the edge when his house is burglarized and his family is put in danger.

Unbeknownst to his family, Hutch has a violent past that he has been trying to suppress. But when his family is threatened, he is forced to unleash his inner assassin.

28. The Suicide Squad (2021)

The Suicide Squad (2021), is a hilarious, action-packed, and surprisingly heartwarming film. It follows a group of supervillains who are forced to work together on a dangerous mission for the government.

The team includes a diverse cast of DC Comics characters, such as Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, Peacemaker, and King Shark.

The Suicide Squad is written and directed by James Gunn whose signature sense of humor is on full display in The Suicide Squad, as the film is full of hilarious one-liners and over-the-top action sequences.

However, The Suicide Squad is more than just a comedy. The film also has a surprisingly emotional core, as it explores the complex relationships between the characters.

Do not confuse this one with 2016’s Suicide Squad. That one doesn’t have a ‘The’ in the title.

29. Friday (1995)

Philip Litevsky from Toronto, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Friday is a classic comedy film that has stood the test of time. Released in 1995, Friday follows Craig Jones (Ice Cube), a young man who is unemployed and trying to scrape by in South Central Los Angeles.

Over the course of one day, Craig and his best friend Smokey (Chris Tucker) get into all sorts of misadventures, including dealing with a local gangster named Big Worm (Faizon Love).

Friday is a hilarious and heartwarming film that captures the culture and struggles of South Central Los Angeles in the 1990s. It is also a groundbreaking film that helped to launch the careers of Ice Cube and Chris Tucker in Hollywood.

In addition to its comedic value, Friday is also a must-watch for its social commentary. The film explores issues such as poverty, crime, and gang violence in a way that is both honest and insightful.

30. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014), is a visually stunning, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of prejudice, violence, and redemption.

The film is set ten years after the events of Rupert Wyatt’s 2011 Rise of the Planet of the Apes and follows a group of apes led by Caesar (Andy Serkis) as they try to build a new society in the ruins of San Francisco. However, their fragile peace is threatened when a group of human survivors arrive in search of a hydroelectric dam.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a masterful film on every level. The performances are excellent, with Serkis giving a particularly standout performance as Caesar.

The special effects are also top-notch, creating some of the most realistic and believable apes ever seen on film.

31. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

As far as Romantic Comedies go, Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally is up there with the best of them. It stars Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan as Harry Burns and Sally Albright, two strangers who meet while sharing a ride from Chicago to New York City.

Over the next 12 years, they run into each other several times, gradually becoming friends and eventually lovers. When Harry Met Sally is a classic romantic comedy that is both funny and heartwarming.

It features memorable characters, witty dialogue, and a timeless story about love and friendship. The film is also notable for its exploration of gender roles and sexuality, which was groundbreaking at the time of its release.

32. (500) Days of Summer (2009)

(500) Days of Summer, is an inventive romantic comedy that presents the viewer with a glimpse into the tragic side of attraction.

It’s a bittersweet romantic comedy that tells the story of Tom Hansen (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a hopeless romantic who falls in love with Summer Finn (Zooey Deschanel), a free-spirited young woman who doesn’t believe in love.

The movie’s story is told in a non-chronological order, which allows us to see the relationship unfold from both Tom’s and Summer’s perspectives. This unique storytelling technique helps us to understand the different ways in which they experience love and their relationship.

It is a film that is sure to stay long with you after watching it. Director Marc Webb masterfully takes the viewer on a journey as we watch these two characters transition to different stages of attraction toward one another.

33. Moneyball (2011)

Moneyball is a 2011 American biographical sports drama film directed by Bennett Miller and written by Aaron Sorkin and Stan Chervin, based on the 2003 book of the same name by Michael Lewis.

The film stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, and Jonah Hill as Peter Brand, an economics graduate from Yale who is hired by Beane to help him assemble a competitive team despite having a small budget.

The film follows Beane and Brand as they use sabermetrics, a statistical analysis of baseball performance, to identify undervalued players who can be acquired for a low cost.

This approach allows Beane to build a winning team despite being outspent by most of the other teams in Major League Baseball.

Moneyball is a must-watch movie for fans of sports, drama, and business. It is a well-made film with excellent performances by Pitt and Hill.

34. No Sudden Move (2021)

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh and starring an all-star ensemble cast, No Sudden Move is a taut and suspenseful crime thriller set in 1954 in Detroit.

The film follows a group of criminals who are hired to blackmail a family and force the husband to sign a document. However, when the job goes wrong, the criminals find themselves caught up in a web of intrigue and betrayal.

No Sudden Move is a masterfully crafted film that features Soderbergh’s trademark sharp dialogue, complex characters, and stylish direction.

The film’s star-studded cast includes Don Cheadle, Benicio del Toro, David Harbour, Jon Hamm, Amy Seimetz, and Brendan Fraser just to name a few.

35. Goodfellas (1990)

Goodfellas is a classic crime film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci. The film tells the story of Henry Hill (Liotta), a young man who rises through the ranks of the Mafia to become a powerful and respected gangster.

Goodfellas is a gripping and suspenseful film that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of organized crime. It is also a darkly funny and thought-provoking film that explores themes such as greed, ambition, and the American Dream.

The film is beautifully shot and directed, and it features some of the most iconic scenes in all of cinema.

36. Pig (2021)

Ever wondered what the John Wick films would look like without the violence? Well, that’s Pig in a nutshell.

Starring Nicholas Cage, Pig is a beautifully made and deeply moving film about a truffle hunter who embarks on a journey to find his beloved pig. Cage plays Rob, a former chef who has withdrawn from society and lives in isolation with his pig, Robyn.

When Robyn is stolen, Rob is devastated. He travels to Portland with the help of a young man named Amir (Alex Wolff) to track her down.

Along the way, Rob is able to reconnect with people from his past and even rediscover his passion for cooking. Unlike John Wick which is all action and violence, Pig is a nuanced drama that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption.

37. Casino Royale (2006)

The Royal Navy, OGL 3, via Wikimedia Commons

Casino Royale is the 21st film in the James Bond series and the first to star Daniel Craig as the iconic British spy.

Casino Royale is a reboot of the James Bond franchise, and it takes the character back to his roots. The film is a dark and gritty thriller that follows Bond as he is assigned to bankrupt a terrorist financier by defeating him at a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro.

Casino Royale is a refreshing take on the James Bond character and franchise. It is a more realistic and grounded film than previous Bond films, and it features some of the most exciting and suspenseful action sequences in the series.

Other James Bond films on Max include Sean Connery’s Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, and Diamonds Are Forever, Roger Moore’s The Man with the Golden Gun and Octopussy, Timothy Dalton’s The Living Daylights, Pierce Broson’s Goldeneye and Tomorrow Never Dies, and Daniel Craig’s Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace.

38. Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

Avatar: The Way of Water is the long-awaited sequel to James Cameron’s 2009 blockbuster film, Avatar. It is set more than a decade after the events of the first film and follows Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) as they raise their family on the planet Pandora.

However, their peaceful life is threatened when humans return to Pandora to mine for a valuable mineral called unobtanium.

The film features a star-studded cast with some characters reprising their roles, including Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet.

39. Raging Bull (1980)

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Directed by the genius mind of Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Raging Bull is a classic black-and-white sports drama film.

The film tells the story of Jake LaMotta, a middleweight boxer who is driven by rage and self-destruction. LaMotta is a brilliant fighter, but his personal demons often get the best of him. He is abusive to his wife and brother, and he struggles to control his anger and jealousy.

Despite his personal problems, LaMotta reaches the pinnacle of his boxing career in 1949, when he defeats Sugar Ray Robinson in a brutal and bloody fight. However, his success is short-lived.

Raging Bull is a powerful and disturbing film that offers an unflinching look at the dark side of violent sports such as boxing as well as human nature.

40. The Hurt Locker (2009)

The Hurt Locker is a groundbreaking war film that offers a visceral and unflinching look at the experiences of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team in Iraq.

The film follows Sergeant First Class William James (Jeremy Renner), a reckless and adrenaline-seeking soldier who thrives on the danger of disarming bombs. James is transferred to a new EOD team in Baghdad, where he must learn to work with a new partner, Sergeant JT Sanborn (Anthony Mackie).

The Hurt Locker is a masterclass in suspense and tension. Bigelow’s direction is masterful, and she creates a truly immersive experience for the viewer.

The film is also incredibly well-acted, with Renner giving a career-defining performance as James.

41. Birdman / The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance (2014)

Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014) is a darkly funny and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of ego, artistic integrity, and the fear of irrelevance.

The film follows Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up actor who is best known for playing the titular superhero in a blockbuster franchise. In an attempt to revive his career, Riggan writes, directs, and stars in a Broadway adaptation of Raymond Carver’s short story “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.”

As the opening night of the play approaches, Riggan faces mounting pressure from his cast, critics, and his own inner demons. He begins to hear the voice of Birdman in his head, who taunts him and undermines his confidence.

42. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (2009)

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009) is a fun and heartwarming animated film that is perfect for the whole family.

The film follows Flint Lockwood, a young scientist who invents a machine that can turn water into food. When the machine malfunctions, it begins to rain food on the town of Chewandswallow. At first, the residents are thrilled with this new source of sustenance.

However, they soon realize that the food rain is getting out of control. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is a visually stunning film with a clever and heartwarming story.

43. The Town (2010)

The Town is a 2010 American crime thriller film written, directed, and starring Ben Affleck. It is based on the 2004 novel Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan.

The film also stars Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively, and Chris Cooper. The film follows Doug MacRay (Affleck), a career bank robber in Charlestown, Boston, who is torn between his love for his girlfriend, Claire Keesey (Hall), and his loyalty to his criminal crew.

When Doug’s crew robs a bank and takes Claire hostage, he is forced to make a difficult choice. The Town is a well-crafted and suspenseful film with strong performances from the entire cast.

Affleck is particularly good in the lead role, and he has great chemistry with Hall. The film also features some impressive action sequences, particularly the bank robbery scene at the beginning of the film.

44. Man of Steel (2013)

Man of Steel (2013) is a must-watch movie on HBO Max in 2023 for any fan of superheroes, action films, or simply great cinema. It is a bold and ambitious reimagining of Superman’s origin story, directed by Zack Snyder and starring Henry Cavill as the Man of Steel.

The film follows Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) as he struggles to come to terms with his alien powers and his place in the world. When a Kryptonian general named Zod (Michael Shannon) arrives on Earth with a plan to enslave humanity, Clark must embrace his destiny as Superman and save the world.

Man of Steel is a visually stunning film, with some of the most impressive action sequences ever put to film. The film also features a complex and nuanced portrayal of Superman, who is forced to make difficult choices in order to protect the people he loves.

45. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021) is the director’s cut of the 2017 film Justice League, which was famously interfered with by studio executives. Snyder’s vision for the film is fully realized in this four-hour epic, which is both a thrilling adventure and a moving character study.

The film follows Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) as they assemble a team of superheroes to protect the world from the evil Steppenwolf (Ciarán Hinds).

The team includes Aquaman (Jason Momoa), Cyborg (Ray Fisher), and The Flash (Ezra Miller). Together, they must learn to work together and overcome their personal demons in order to save the world.

46. Constantine (2005)

Constantine is a must-watch movie on HBO Max in 2023 for fans of dark fantasy, action, and horror. The film is based on the DC Comics character John Constantine, a chain-smoking exorcist who has been to hell and back.

Keanu Reeves stars as Constantine, a man who has lost the will to live after being diagnosed with lung cancer. However, when he is approached by a police detective (Rachel Weisz) investigating the death of her twin sister, Constantine is drawn into a conspiracy that threatens to unleash hell on Earth.

47. The Lego Movie (2014)

The Lego Movie (2014), is a hilarious and heartwarming film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. follows the story of Emmet Brickowski, an ordinary Lego minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the Special, the one who can save the Lego world from the evil Lord Business.

Emmet is joined on his quest by a team of misfit characters, including Wyldstyle, a tough-as-nails Lego minifigure; Batman, a self-absorbed superhero; and Unikitty, a unicorn-kitty hybrid.

The Lego Movie is a celebration of creativity and the power of imagination. It is a film that shows us that anything is possible if we can just believe in ourselves.

The film is also a reminder that it is okay to be different. Emmet is an ordinary Lego minifigure, but he is also the Special. He is the one who can save the world.

The movie stars Chris Pratt as Emmet and Elizabeth Banks as Wyldstyle alongside other stars such as Will Ferrell, Will Arnett, and Liam Neeson among others.

48. Judas And The Black Messiah (2021)

FLC001, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Judas and the Black Messiah is a 2021 American biographical drama film directed by Shaka King and written by King and Will Berson. It stars Daniel Kaluuya as Fred Hampton, chairman of the Black Panther Party’s Illinois chapter, and Lakeith Stanfield as William O’Neal, an FBI informant who infiltrated the Black Panthers.

The film tells the story of Hampton’s rise to power and his assassination by the Chicago Police Department in 1969. It is a powerful and moving film that explores themes of racism, police brutality, and the fight for social justice.

49. Gravity (2013)

Gravity (2013) is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant space thriller that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The film follows Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock), a medical engineer on her first space mission, and veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) as they are stranded in space after their space shuttle is destroyed by debris.

With their limited oxygen supply and no hope of rescue, Stone and Kowalski must use all of their ingenuity and courage to survive and return to Earth.

Gravity is a masterclass in filmmaking, with stunning cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki and groundbreaking special effects. The film’s immersive use of 3D creates a truly visceral experience, as the audience feels like they are floating alongside Stone and Kowalski in the vastness of space.

50. The Harry Porter Film Series

The Harry Potter film series is a must-watch for any fan of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age stories. The eight films, which were released between 2001 and 2011, are based on the beloved books by J.K. Rowling and tell the story of Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), a young boy who discovers that he is a wizard.

The Harry Potter films are full of magic, wonder, and excitement. They also explore important themes such as friendship, courage, and the power of love. The films have captivated audiences of all ages and have become a cultural phenomenon.

Movies in the film series include:

1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010)
8. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011)

As impressive as this list is, what has been left out is almost if not more eye-opening. Max offers a wide range of movies, featuring content from the vast HBO library, Warner Bros, DC, Studio Ghibli, and Discovery including many more production giants.

However, this list does highlight some major titles we felt you must see and some tough decisions had to be made on what made the cut.