The 25 Best TV Dramas to Watch on HBO Max Right Now

For decades, HBO has been a leader in television, producing groundbreaking dramas that have consistently raised the bar for storytelling. The network built a reputation for creating complex characters, intricate plots, and cinematic experiences that rivaled feature films. This commitment to quality has made the HBO brand synonymous with prestige television, attracting top-tier talent both in front of and behind the camera. From iconic mob sagas to sprawling fantasy epics, HBO has a rich history of delivering unforgettable television.

That legacy continues on its streaming service, HBO Max. While the platform underwent a temporary name change to Max, it has since returned to the familiar HBO Max branding, reinforcing its dedication to the high-caliber content audiences have come to expect. The service is home to not only HBO’s legendary catalog of shows but also a growing number of original series that uphold the same standard of excellence. Here are 25 of the best TV dramas you can watch on the platform right now.

The Sopranos (1999)

This series follows Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss who tries to balance his criminal life with his family life. After suffering from panic attacks, he secretly starts seeing a psychiatrist to deal with his personal and professional issues. The show gives a detailed look at the modern-day mafia, exploring the complex relationships and power struggles within Tony’s crew.

“The Sopranos” is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time. It changed the landscape of television drama with its complex anti-hero protagonist and its willingness to explore dark and morally ambiguous themes. The show’s writing, acting, and directing set a new standard for what television could achieve.

The Wire (2002)

Set in Baltimore, “The Wire” presents a realistic look at the drug trade through the eyes of both the drug dealers and the law enforcement officers who are trying to stop them. Each season focuses on a different facet of the city, from the illegal drug trade to the seaport system, the city government, the school system, and the print news media.

The show is known for its realistic portrayal of urban life and its deep exploration of social and political issues. It avoids easy answers and instead presents a complex and nuanced picture of the challenges facing American cities. With a large ensemble cast and intricate plotting, “The-Wire” is a powerful and thought-provoking series.

Game of Thrones (2011)

Based on the book series by George R.R. Martin, “Game of Thrones” is a fantasy epic about the noble families of Westeros vying for control of the Iron Throne. The show is known for its massive scale, with a huge cast of characters, stunning locations, and intricate political intrigue. It also features dragons, magic, and an army of the undead.

“Game of Thrones” became a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its shocking plot twists, complex characters, and epic battles. The series pushed the boundaries of what was possible on television, both in terms of its budget and its storytelling. It is a must-see for fans of fantasy and political drama.

Succession (2018)

“Succession” follows the dysfunctional Roy family, owners of a global media and entertainment conglomerate. When the family’s patriarch, Logan Roy, decides to step back from the company, a power struggle ensues among his four children. The show is a satirical black comedy-drama that explores themes of power, family, and wealth.

With its sharp writing and incredible ensemble cast, “Succession” has received widespread critical acclaim. The show is known for its witty dialogue, complex characters, and cynical take on the world of the super-rich. It is a compelling and often hilarious look at the corrupting influence of power.

Chernobyl (2019)

This five-part miniseries dramatizes the story of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster and the cleanup efforts that followed. It follows the stories of the people who caused the disaster and those who responded to it, from the plant workers and firefighters to the scientists and government officials. The series is a harrowing and suspenseful look at one of the worst man-made catastrophes in history.

“Chernobyl” was praised for its historical accuracy, its tense atmosphere, and its powerful performances. It serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of government secrecy and the importance of scientific truth. The series is a gripping and unforgettable viewing experience.

The Leftovers (2014)

Based on the novel by Tom Perrotta, “The Leftovers” begins three years after two percent of the world’s population mysteriously vanishes. The series follows the lives of the people who were left behind in the small town of Mapleton, New York, as they struggle to come to terms with the unexplained event. It explores themes of grief, faith, and the search for meaning in a world that has been turned upside down.

“The Leftovers” is a challenging and thought-provoking series that is not afraid to ask big questions without providing easy answers. The show is known for its emotional depth, its complex characters, and its often surreal and dreamlike tone. It is a deeply moving and ultimately hopeful series about the power of human connection in the face of the unknown.

Six Feet Under (2001)

“Six Feet Under” centers on the Fisher family, who own and operate a funeral home in Los Angeles. After the sudden death of the family patriarch, his two sons are forced to take over the family business. The series explores the lives of the Fisher family as they deal with death on a daily basis, both professionally and personally.

The show is known for its unique blend of dark humor and emotional drama. Each episode begins with a death, which sets the tone for the themes that will be explored. “Six Feet Under” is a poignant and often funny look at life, death, and the complexities of family.

Deadwood (2004)

Set in the 1870s, “Deadwood” takes place in a lawless mining camp in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The series follows the lives of the camp’s inhabitants, from the prospectors and prostitutes to the entrepreneurs and outlaws who are all looking to make their fortune. The show is known for its historical accuracy, its complex characters, and its profanity-laced dialogue.

“Deadwood” is a gritty and realistic look at the American West. The show’s creator, David Milch, used historical documents and diaries to create a vivid and authentic portrayal of the time period. With its compelling characters and intricate storylines, “Deadwood” is a masterpiece of historical fiction.

True Detective (2014)

“True Detective” is an anthology series where each season features a new cast of characters and a new self-contained story. The first season follows two Louisiana detectives as they hunt for a serial killer over a 17-year period. The show is known for its dark and atmospheric tone, its philosophical dialogue, and its strong performances.

The first season of “True Detective” was a cultural phenomenon, praised for its captivating mystery and the compelling chemistry between its two leads. Subsequent seasons have continued to attract top talent and explore complex criminal cases. The anthology format allows the series to reinvent itself with each new installment, offering a fresh and engaging experience for viewers.

Band of Brothers (2001)

This ten-part miniseries tells the story of “Easy” Company, a unit of the 101st Airborne Division, during World War II. Based on the non-fiction book by Stephen E. Ambrose, the series follows the company from their training in the United States to their combat experiences in Europe. It is a realistic and moving portrayal of the experiences of ordinary soldiers in the war.

“Band of Brothers” is a landmark television event, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. The series is praised for its historical accuracy, its cinematic scope, and its emotional depth. It is a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the men who fought in World War II.

Oz (1997)

“Oz” is a gritty and intense drama set in a fictional men’s prison. The series focuses on the lives of the inmates and staff in an experimental unit of the prison called Emerald City. The show is known for its unflinching portrayal of violence, its complex characters, and its exploration of the dark side of human nature.

As HBO’s first one-hour drama series, “Oz” broke new ground for television with its mature themes and graphic content. It paved the way for many of the acclaimed dramas that would follow. The show is a powerful and often disturbing look at the realities of prison life.

Boardwalk Empire (2010)

Set in Atlantic City during the Prohibition era, “Boardwalk Empire” tells the story of Nucky Thompson, the undisputed political boss and gangster of the city. The series chronicles his rise to power and his efforts to control the illegal liquor trade. The show features a mix of fictional and historical characters from the time period.

With its lavish period detail and a strong lead performance by Steve Buscemi, “Boardwalk Empire” brings the Roaring Twenties to life. The series explores the corruption, violence, and glamour of the era. It is a compelling and stylish crime drama.

Mare of Easttown (2021)

This limited series stars Kate Winslet as a small-town Pennsylvania detective investigating a local murder while trying to keep her own life from falling apart. The show is a gripping murder mystery that also offers a deep and moving portrait of a community and the secrets that bind it.

“Mare of Easttown” was a critical and commercial success, praised for its strong performances, its authentic sense of place, and its compelling story. Winslet’s portrayal of the tough but vulnerable detective earned her numerous awards. It is a masterclass in crime drama storytelling.

Watchmen (2019)

Based on the iconic graphic novel, this series is set in an alternate history where superheroes are treated as outlaws. The show takes place 34 years after the events of the original story and introduces new characters and mysteries while still honoring the source material. It tackles complex themes of race, justice, and trauma.

“Watchmen” was lauded for its bold and innovative storytelling, its stunning visuals, and its powerful social commentary. The series is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of American history and identity. It is a must-see for fans of the original graphic novel and for anyone who enjoys challenging and ambitious television.

Barry (2018)

“Barry” is a dark comedy-drama about a depressed, low-rent hitman from the Midwest who travels to Los Angeles to kill an aspiring actor. He ends up following his target into an acting class and finds himself drawn to the community and the possibility of a new life. The show follows his attempts to leave his violent past behind.

Created by and starring Bill Hader, “Barry” skillfully balances comedy and tragedy. The series is both hilarious and heartbreaking, often in the same scene. It is a unique and compelling show that explores themes of identity, redemption, and the nature of violence.

The White Lotus (2021)

This satirical anthology series follows the guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain, whose stay is affected by their various psychosocial dysfunctions. Each season is set in a different idyllic location and features a new cast of characters, with one or two characters returning from the previous season. The show is a sharp and funny critique of wealth, privilege, and class.

“The White Lotus” has become a cultural phenomenon, known for its witty writing, its stellar ensemble casts, and its cringe-worthy humor. The series is a masterclass in social satire, exposing the dark underbelly of paradise. It is an addictive and highly entertaining watch.

The Last of Us (2023)

Based on the critically acclaimed video game, “The Last of Us” takes place twenty years after modern civilization has been destroyed by a deadly pandemic. Joel, a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of an oppressive quarantine zone. What starts as a small job soon becomes a brutal and heartbreaking journey as they must traverse the post-apocalyptic United States and depend on each other for survival.

“The Last of Us” was an instant hit, praised for its faithful adaptation of the source material, its powerful performances, and its emotional depth. The show is a gripping and intense survival drama that also explores the bonds of love and family in a broken world. It is a stunning achievement in television.

House of the Dragon (2022)

A prequel to “Game of Thrones,” this series is set 200 years before the events of the original show and tells the story of House Targaryen. Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” the series chronicles the events leading up to the Targaryen civil war, known as the “Dance of the Dragons.” The show features a new cast of characters and, of course, plenty of dragons.

“House of the Dragon” successfully captures the epic scale and political intrigue of its predecessor. The series was a massive ratings success and was praised for its strong performances, particularly from its female leads. It is a worthy successor to “Game of Thrones” and a must-see for fans of the world of Westeros.

Big Little Lies (2017)

Based on the novel by Liane Moriarty, “Big Little Lies” follows a group of wealthy mothers in Monterey, California, whose seemingly perfect lives begin to unravel after a murder occurs in their community. The series explores the dark secrets and lies that exist beneath the surface of their idyllic lives.

With a star-studded cast that includes Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley, “Big Little Lies” is a gripping and suspenseful drama. The show is known for its strong performances, its beautiful cinematography, and its compelling mystery. It is a powerful story about the strength of female friendship.

Euphoria (2019)

“Euphoria” follows a group of high school students as they navigate love, friendship, identity, and trauma. The series is a raw and unflinching look at the challenges of modern adolescence, dealing with issues such as drug addiction, mental health, and social media.

The show has been praised for its stunning visuals, its bold storytelling, and its breakout performance from Zendaya as the main character, Rue. “Euphoria” is a powerful and often controversial series that has resonated with a young audience. It is a visually striking and emotionally resonant exploration of teenage life.

I May Destroy You (2020)

Created by and starring Michaela Coel, “I May Destroy You” is a fearless and frank drama about a young woman who must rebuild her life after her drink is spiked, leading to a sexual assault. The series explores the question of consent in contemporary life and the complex journey of healing.

“I May Destroy You” was universally acclaimed for its powerful and personal storytelling, its complex characters, and its brave exploration of a difficult subject. The series is a groundbreaking and essential piece of television that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.

The Night Of (2016)

This eight-part miniseries follows a Pakistani-American college student who is charged with the murder of a woman on the Upper West Side of New York City. The series examines the police investigation, the legal proceedings, the criminal justice system, and the purgatory of Rikers Island, where the accused awaits his trial.

“The Night Of” is a gripping and suspenseful crime drama that was praised for its smart writing, its nuanced characters, and its strong performances. The series provides a fascinating and often-critical look at the American justice system. It is a compelling and thought-provoking whodunit.

Station Eleven (2021)

This post-apocalyptic limited series is based on the novel of the same name and spans multiple timelines. It tells the stories of survivors of a devastating flu as they attempt to rebuild and reimagine the world anew while holding on to the best of what’s been lost. The series is a story of hope and the power of art.

“Station Eleven” was praised for its beautiful and lyrical storytelling, its complex characters, and its hopeful vision of the future. The series is a moving and profound exploration of what it means to be human. It is a timely and uplifting drama.

Sharp Objects (2018)

Based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, this miniseries stars Amy Adams as a crime reporter who returns to her hometown to investigate the murders of two young girls. As she tries to uncover the truth, she finds herself confronting the psychological demons from her past. The series is a dark and atmospheric Southern Gothic mystery.

“Sharp Objects” was lauded for its stunning visuals, its haunting tone, and its powerful performances, particularly from Adams and Patricia Clarkson as her overbearing mother. The series is a gripping and disturbing psychological thriller that will stay with you long after you’ve finished watching.

Industry (2020)

“Industry” follows a group of young graduates competing for a limited number of permanent positions at a top investment bank in London. The series is a fast-paced and high-stakes drama that explores the world of international finance through the eyes of its ambitious and often morally compromised characters.

The show has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the finance world and its complex and compelling characters. “Industry” is a stylish and addictive series that offers a thrilling look at the pressures and temptations of a high-powered career.