Best Movies to Stream this Weekend on HBO Max, Including a Cult-Classic Korean Horror

HBO Max has recently updated its library with a diverse selection of films ranging from acclaimed award contenders to intense international horror. This weekend features a mix of high-speed action, supernatural thrills, and emotional dramas that have been trending among subscribers. Whether looking for a recent blockbuster or a classic genre piece, viewers can find a variety of stories to explore. These selections highlight the platform’s commitment to offering both fresh releases and celebrated titles from global cinema.

‘Meg 2: The Trench’ (2023)

‘Meg 2: The Trench’ is a high-octane science fiction action film that follows rescue diver Jonas Taylor as he faces prehistoric threats. The story involves a research mission into the deepest parts of the ocean that inadvertently releases multiple giant sharks. The characters must navigate environmental hazards and massive predators to survive the ordeal. The film focuses on large-scale spectacle and is a popular choice for fans of creature features on the platform.

‘The Ghost Station’ (2023)

‘The Ghost Station’ is a South Korean horror film adapted from a popular digital webtoon. The plot follows a subway station employee and a reporter as they investigate a series of gruesome and unexplained deaths. As they uncover the truth, they realize the station is haunted by a dark history that endangers everyone involved. The movie utilizes its claustrophobic setting to build tension and psychological dread. It joined the HBO Max library this month as a notable international horror entry.

‘Valentine’s Day’ (2010)

‘Valentine’s Day’ explores the interconnected lives of several Los Angeles residents as they navigate various romantic challenges during the holiday. The film features a massive ensemble cast including stars like Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, and Bradley Cooper. Each storyline highlights different aspects of love, from new attractions to long-standing relationships under pressure. Although the movie originally premiered in 2010, it has recently surged back into the most-watched list on HBO Max. This narrative provides a lighthearted and sentimental experience for viewers seeking a romantic comedy.

‘Urban Myths’ (2022)

‘Urban Myths’ is a South Korean anthology film that presents ten different tales of terror based on modern folklore. Each segment explores a unique supernatural phenomenon, ranging from haunted dental clinics to mysterious occurrences in high-rise apartments. The movie features a cast of young idols and rising actors to bring these contemporary ghost stories to life. It emphasizes atmosphere and quick pacing to deliver multiple scares within its runtime. This title is part of a recent wave of international additions to the streaming service’s horror catalog.

‘The Smashing Machine’ (2025)

The movie ‘The Smashing Machine’ follows the professional and personal life of mixed martial arts legend Mark Kerr. It offers a raw look at the early days of the PRIDE Fighting Championships and the physical toll of the sport. The film also documents Kerr’s internal struggles, including his battle with addiction while trying to maintain his status in the ring. It remains a critically acclaimed piece for its unflinching portrayal of the realities faced by professional fighters.

‘The Shape of Water’ (2017)

Directed by Guillermo del Toro, ‘The Shape of Water’ is a fantasy drama set against the backdrop of the Cold War. The plot follows Eliza Esposito, a mute janitor who discovers a mysterious aquatic creature held captive in a high-security government facility. As Eliza develops a deep emotional bond with the being, she enlists the help of her friends to orchestrate a rescue mission. The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture and is celebrated for its visual artistry and unique romantic premise. It explores themes of isolation and the redemptive power of empathy.

‘Sinners’ (2025)

‘Sinners’ is a supernatural horror thriller directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan. Set in the 1930s Jim Crow-era South, the film follows twin brothers who return to their childhood home to start over, only to encounter a sinister force. The narrative blends historical drama with gothic horror elements to create a unique and tense viewing experience. The film has received praise for its atmosphere and the performance of its lead actor in a dual role. It is currently available for streaming on HBO Max following its successful theatrical run.

‘Ready Player One’ (2018)

‘Ready Player One’ is a science fiction adventure directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the popular novel. The story is set in a future where people escape their harsh reality by entering the OASIS, an expansive virtual universe. A young protagonist discovers the first clue in a hidden quest that grants the winner total control over the digital world. The film is filled with visual effects and numerous references to 1980s pop culture and video gaming history. It remains a top choice for viewers looking for an immersive and fast-paced adventure film.

‘Train to Busan’ (2016)

‘Train to Busan’ is a critically acclaimed South Korean film that revitalized the zombie genre upon its release. The narrative follows a father and his young daughter as they board a train from Seoul to Busan just as a viral outbreak begins. The passengers must defend themselves against the fast-moving infected while dealing with internal conflicts among the survivors. The movie is praised for its emotional depth and relentless action sequences that take place within the confined spaces of the train. It was recently added to HBO Max, providing a high-quality horror option for the weekend.

‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ (2025)

‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ is a powerful drama starring Rose Byrne that has earned significant acclaim during the current award season. The film tells the story of a woman facing life-altering circumstances and the emotional journey she undertakes to reclaim her sense of self. It features a nuanced lead performance that has been recognized with an Academy Award nomination. Since its arrival on HBO Max, it has consistently topped the streaming charts as the most-watched movie of the week. The film is noted for its sensitive writing and its ability to connect with audiences through a deeply personal story.

Please share which of these HBO Max titles you plan to stream first in the comments.