‘The Secrets We Bury’ Is HBO Max’s Most-Watched Movie This Week

The streaming landscape is dominated by festive favorites and highly anticipated new releases as the holiday season reaches its peak. Viewers are flocking to a mix of chilling horror sequels and nostalgic comedies that define the current cultural moment. This week features the return of legendary cult figures alongside emotional documentaries that explore the history of alternative rock. The following titles represent the most popular selections currently available for subscribers on the platform.

‘Music Box: Counting Crows: Have You Seen Me Lately?’ (2025)

This documentary installment explores the creative journey and legacy of the alternative rock band Counting Crows. It features behind the scenes footage and interviews that detail the rise of lead singer Adam Duritz and his bandmates during the nineties. The film examines the emotional weight of their most famous tracks and the personal toll of sudden fame. It serves as a comprehensive look at the group for both long time fans and new listeners.

‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ (2025)

Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren return for one final case involving a supernatural threat that tests their faith and strength. This installment serves as the concluding chapter of the main franchise timeline that began with the haunting in Harrisville. The narrative follows the couple as they confront an ancient malevolence linked to their previous encounters. Fans of ‘The Conjuring’ will see familiar themes of spiritual warfare and domestic horror as the story reaches its climax.

‘Flight Risk’ (2025)

This high stakes thriller centers on an air marshal transporting a dangerous informant across the Alaskan wilderness. Tension mounts when the pilot is revealed to be an assassin tasked with eliminating the witness before they reach their destination. The story takes place primarily within the confines of a small plane where every character has a hidden agenda. Mark Wahlberg leads the cast in this suspenseful feature directed by Mel Gibson.

‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ (1989)

Clark Griswold attempts to host the perfect traditional family Christmas despite a series of disastrous events. His plans are constantly derailed by unexpected visitors and malfunctioning holiday decorations that lead to neighborhood wide chaos. The film captures the frantic energy of the holiday season through the lens of a middle class family trying to maintain their sanity. ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ remains a staple of holiday viewing for its portrayal of domestic mishaps and festive spirit.

‘Spinal Tap II: The End Continues’ (2025)

This sequel revisits the legendary British heavy metal band several decades after their original documentary debut. The aging rockers attempt to reunite for one final performance to honor their late manager while navigating the modern music industry. Director Rob Reiner returns to helm this project alongside the original cast members who reprise their iconic roles. The film blends nostalgia with the same satirical look at rock and roll culture that made the first movie a cult classic.

‘This Is Spinal Tap’ (1984)

Filmmaker Marty DiBergi follows the fictional band Spinal Tap during their tumultuous concert tour across the United States. The movie pioneered the mockumentary style by capturing the absurdity of the heavy metal scene through improvised scenes and deadpan humor. It explores the internal conflicts and technical blunders that plague the group as their popularity begins to wane. Many real world musicians have praised ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ for its accurate depiction of the touring lifestyle and industry ridiculousness.

‘The Polar Express’ (2004)

A young boy who doubts the existence of Santa Claus embarks on a magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. During the trip he learns about the power of friendship and the importance of believing in the unseen wonders of the world. The film utilizes motion capture technology to bring its storybook illustrations to life with a unique visual style. Tom Hanks provides the voices for multiple characters throughout ‘The Polar Express’ including the conductor and Santa himself.

‘Elf’ (2003)

Buddy is a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole after crawling into Santa’s toy sack as an infant. Upon discovering his true heritage he travels to New York City to find his biological father and spread holiday cheer in a cynical world. The story follows his fish out of water experiences as he navigates the complexities of human life and department store employment. ‘Elf’ has become a modern holiday favorite due to its heartfelt message and comedic performance by Will Ferrell.

‘Christmas with the Kranks’ (2004)

Luther and Nora Krank decide to skip their traditional Christmas celebrations and head on a cruise since their daughter is away for the holidays. Their choice sparks a neighborhood wide protest from obsessed neighbors who value festive conformity above all else. When their daughter unexpectedly announces she is coming home they must rush to organize a party in mere hours. ‘Christmas with the Kranks’ explores the social pressures and frantic preparations associated with the month of December.

‘The Secrets We Bury’ (2025)

Director Patricia E. Gillespie presents a mystery documentary that investigates a long standing cold case through new forensic evidence. The film examines the lives of the individuals affected by a past tragedy and the secrets that have remained hidden for decades. It utilizes investigative journalism techniques to piece together a complex narrative of betrayal and survival. ‘The Secrets We Bury’ has gained significant traction on the platform for its meticulous research and compelling storytelling style.

Tell us which of these streaming hits you are watching tonight in the comments.